Urethane is a superior, top-of-the-line hard coating that resists wear and requires less maintenance than acrylic. The higher density of urethane means that it will stay glossy longer, resist scratches better, and is easier to clean.
For high-traffic areas and outdoor projects, polyurethane—especially the oil-based variety—is the best choice due to its superior durability and resistance to water and heat. For indoor projects, particularly those involving light-colored wood or areas with minimal wear and tear, polycrylic is an excellent option.
PU kitchen cabinets are considered better for high-traffic kitchens due to their superior resistance to scratches and water. They are designed to handle more wear and tear, making them a durable choice for busy environments compared to acrylic cabinets.
Acrylic paint can be sealed on outdoor surfaces with polycrylic or water-based polyurethane. To avoid damaging your paint, make sure you choose a water-based (not solvent-based) polyurethane.
For acrylic paint, you can use any clear sealer that's labeled water-based.
Popular Product: I wholeheartedly recommend Golden Acrylic Polymer Varnish with UVLS.
Disadvantages of Acrylic Sealant
Prone to Cracking and Shrinking: It is prone to cracking and shrinking over time. Cracking is worse when exposed to sunlight and severe weather conditions. Not Ideal for Wet Areas: Acrylic sealant is not water-resistant, which means it should not be used in wet areas.
Acrylic is not as durable as urethane. It can wear down faster than a urethane coating can, meaning it must be buffed or re-coated more often.
Lesser Durability Compared to Urethane: While acrylic is durable, it generally can't match the strength and longevity of urethane-based materials, especially in high-traffic or high-stress applications.
The short answer is yes, to a certain degree. There are several factors that make some polyurethanes more absorbent than others. Depending on the physical properties and material, thermoset polyurethanes can practically have zero water absorption compared to other known materials.
In summary, polyurethane offers superior durability and protection, making it the better choice for high-use and outdoor applications. Lacquer provides a beautiful, glossy finish and is easier to repair, making it suitable for indoor furniture with lighter use.
In general, acrylic resin varnishes are glossier, stronger and clearer than acrylic polymer varnishes. Therefore, if you want a high-gloss finish, you should go for an acrylic resin varnish such as Golden MSA Varnish. Before applying the final varnish, you'll need to apply an "isolation coat" over the entire painting.
Because polyester has a much higher solid content than polyurethane, polyester's surface is stronger making it less vulnerable to scratching and chemical cleaning.
Polyurethane is best for projects that need long-lasting durability, while polycrylic is easier to work with and safer, especially if your workspace is poorly ventilated, says Jay Sanders, owner of Castle Dream Construction. “Polyurethane is very toxic. It has twice the VOC content of polycrylic,” he says.
Water-based polyurethane can be the best option for you if you want a finish that dries rapidly and has little odour or toxicity. Oil-based polyurethane can be the preferable choice if you require a finish that accentuates the inherent beauty of wood while providing enhanced durability and protection.
Both oil-based and acrylic paints are perfect when you need to paint over polyurethane. For a more durable surface, oil-based paint is a good option. One drawback is that it produces very strong-smelling fumes. You can get close to the same results with acrylic paints, minus the fumes and harsh odor.
Sealants are versatile materials, whether they are silicone or polyurethane. Both are created to close off any space between two surfaces, to prevent fluids, air, or other substances from passing through.
Polycrylic is not as durable as polyurethane and is meant to be used only on interior surfaces such as cabinets, furniture, and trim. It shouldn't be used in exterior applications or on surfaces that are subject to lots of wear, such as floors, or that are exposed to water.
Acrylic sealers are made from acrylic resins (both synthetic and water based) and used for caulking and sealing a variety of cracks and gaps. They are suitable for just about any DIY home project. Acrylic caulk protects your home by preventing the intrusion of dust, water, and insects into your home.
Silicone is ideal for applications that require high-temperature and weather resistance without painting. Polyurethane is better for applications that require high strength, durability, and resistance to abrasion and chemicals.
Polycrylic is a non-flammable substance, has lower VOCs, and does not produce the same chemical odor as polyurethane. Water-based polyurethane is better than oil-based polyurethane but isn't as environmentally friendly as polycrylic.
USES FOR ACRYLIC SEALANT
Since it is odourless and easily paintable, acrylic sealant is most commonly used to seal household joints, such as stairs, skirting boards and floorboards.
The shelf life varies between brands, with most expiring after a year. As such, a tube of sealant, even when unopened, will expire after around a year from the date of manufacture.
FACTORS IN ACRYLIC SEALER DEGRADATION
True-acrylic sealers are non-yellowing when exposed to UV light. Temperature fluctuations: Changes in temperature, particularly frequent or drastic ones, can lead the sealer to expand and contract, causing cracks/peels.