Home > PU Finish vs Polyester Finish: Which is Best for Your Wood?
PU Finish vs Polyester Finish: Which is Best for Your Wood?
Key Takeaways –
PU finish is versatile, durable, and resistant to water, chemicals, and UV rays, making it ideal for high-traffic areas and exterior wood surfaces.
Polyester finish offers an ultra-glossy, mirror-like appearance but is less flexible and more suitable for luxury furniture due to its hardness and scratch resistance.
Choosing between PU and polyester finishes depends on your renovation goals, with PU offering more flexibility and polyester providing unmatched gloss at a higher cost.
Wood brings timeless charm, versatility, and natural beauty to any home, making it a popular choice for doors, furniture, and floors. The finish you select can impact the longevity and look of your wooden surfaces.
Modern finishes like PU (polyurethane) and polyester have revolutionised wood treatments. Let’s explore these two options.
What is PU Finish?
The full form of PU finish is Polyurethane finish. Polyurethane is a versatile polymer used in many applications, from creating flexible foams to forming tough, protective coatings. It is used in wood finishes to create a durable layer, either glossy or matt, that shields the wood from damage.
PU wood finish comes in two main types – water-based and solvent-based. Water-based PU is known for its eco-friendliness, while solvent-based PU provides a more durable finish. This finish excels in resistance tochemicals and UV rays, making it ideal for wooden surfaces with a lot of wear and tear. PU wood finishes are commonly used in home renovation projects for their protective qualities and aesthetic appeal.
PU wood finish is a go-to choice for home renovations for several reasons –
PU finish is resistant to scratches and chemicals.
Its smooth finish elevates the look of furniture by creating a matt or glossy look and protecting against scratches and stains, keeping surfaces in pristine condition for years.
It works well on high-traffic areas like wooden floors and kitchen cabinets, wardrobes, and interior doors due to its durability and resistance to daily wear.
For exterior projects, the UV-resistant nature of polyurethane makes it suitable for patios, decking, and outdoor furniture, where exposure to sunlight can otherwise cause significant damage over time.
However, applying a PU finish requires professional expertise for the best results. A well-applied PU wood finish not only makes the wood look pristine but also ensures long-lasting performance.
What is Polyester Wood Finish?
The polyester finish is an excellent alternative to the PU finish when you need an ultra-glossy, mirror-like finish. It is known for its extreme hardness and durability, which is perfect for furniture like tabletops and decorative pieces.
If you want a luxurious look, you can never go wrong with a high-gloss polyester finish such as Lucido by ICA Pidilite. These finishes offer exceptional gloss, extreme hardness, and excellent scratch resistance, making them popular among professionals and homeowners alike.
PU Finish vs. Polyester Finish: Which One Should You Choose?
Deciding between PU wood finish and polyester wood finish depends on your renovation goals, budget, and the desired finish.
PU finish is the better option if you’re looking for flexibility, ease of application, and either a matt or gloss finish. It provides durability, water resistance, and a beautiful sheen for most interior and exterior wood surfaces.
On the other hand, a polyester finish offers a super-glossy, almost reflective finish that is unmatched in appearance. This makes it more suitable than a PU wood finish for luxury furniture.
Finding the Perfect Finish for Your Renovation
Both PU finish and polyester finish offer excellent protection and beauty, but they cater to different needs. When selecting a wood finish, consider factors such as desired gloss level, durability, budget, and ease of application. If you’re unsure which finish to choose, it’s always a good idea to seek professional advice to ensure the best results for your renovation project.