Polyurethane resin for the balcony

Polyurethane resin for balconies is a modern solution that provides effective waterproofing and an aesthetically pleasing surface finish. Thanks to its unique properties, it is becoming an increasingly popular choice among apartment and house owners.

What is polyurethane resin?

Polyurethane resin is a synthetic polymer material that, when applied, creates a durable and flexible coating. It is valued for its excellent mechanical and chemical properties, making it an ideal material for outdoor applications such as balconies and terraces.

Properties of polyurethane resin

• Flexibility : Adapts to ground movements, minimizing the risk of cracking.
• Abrasion resistance : Withstands intensive use and mechanical stress.
• Waterproofing : Creates an impermeable water barrier, protecting the balcony structure from moisture.
• Chemical resistance : It is resistant to many chemicals, ensuring long-term durability.
• UV resistance : can withstand intense sunlight without yellowing or chalking. This ensures that the visual effect and physical properties of the coating itself remain unchanged for years.

Differences between polyurethane and epoxy resin 

While both polyurethane and epoxy resins are popular surface finishing materials, they differ in several key characteristics:

• Flexibility : Polyurethane resins are more flexible, making them a better choice for surfaces subject to movement and vibration, such as balconies.
• Resistance to UV radiation : Polyurethane resins are much more resistant to UV radiation, so they do not turn yellow and do not lose their properties when exposed to sunlight.
• Application : Epoxy resins are often used indoors, while polyurethane resins are preferred outdoors due to their weather resistance. The exceptions are epoxy primers such as Neopox® Primer WS or Neopox® Primer AY , which are applied to damp substrates. They can be used outdoors because they are then covered with polyurethane resin coatings, among other things.

Advantages of polyurethane resin for balconies

High flexibility and resistance to cracks

Thanks to its flexibility, polyurethane resin can accommodate minor movements in the substrate, minimizing the risk of cracking and surface damage. Floortop 1K .

Waterproofing and moisture protection

By creating a tight coating, polyurethane resin effectively protects the balcony from water ingress, preventing moisture-related problems such as mold and corrosion.

Resistance to UV radiation and weather conditions

Polyurethane resins such as Neodur® Special are resistant to UV radiation, rain, snow, and temperature fluctuations, ensuring long-term durability and a pleasant surface appearance. Additionally, they can be colored according to the RAL palette, allowing for a specific visual effect that will last for years.

How to prepare a balcony for the application of polyurethane resin?

Substrate preparation is crucial to ensuring the durability and effectiveness of a polyurethane resin coating. Here are the steps to follow:

1. Assessment of the condition of the ground

Make sure the balcony surface is stable, clean, and dry. Remove any loose debris, grease, oil, and other contaminants. If oil stains are present, use a concrete degreaser like Sulfanol A.

2. Repairing damage

It's essential to fill cracks and voids with appropriate repair materials to achieve a smooth and even surface. Ready-made epoxy-based repair compounds, such as Epoxol® Putty , Epoxol® Liquid , or the quick-drying Neodur® FT Putty . Alternatively, you can prepare your own resin repair compound by adding fine quartz sand to a primer, such as Epoxol® Primer SF-P .

3. Grinding

Before applying the resin, it's a good idea to sand the floor to ensure better adhesion of the resin to the substrate. The sanding quality should be selected based on the thickness of the entire system being applied. This is measured on the CSP scale.

4. Priming

The next step is to apply a suitable primer, which will increase the resin's adhesion and ensure a better bond with the substrate. In Poland's climate, it's difficult to achieve the often-required 4% dryness of outdoor concrete. Therefore, Neopox® Primer WS Neopox® Primer AY is applied , which seals off capillary moisture.

How to Apply Polyurethane Resin to a Balcony? Step by Step

The process of applying polyurethane resin requires precision and the right tools. Here are the steps to follow:

1. Preparation of tools and materials

Gather all the necessary tools, such as rollers, brushes, mixers, and the appropriate amount of your chosen polyurethane resin. You may also need a tray, paint sheet, or extra buckets for pouring the resin.

2. Mixing the resin

Mix the resin thoroughly according to the manufacturer's instructions to achieve a uniform consistency. It is recommended to pour the resin into a clean container after initial mixing to ensure that any hardener on the walls is evenly distributed throughout the base.

3. Applying the first layer

After applying the primer and leveling the surface, the first layer of polyurethane resin is applied. The resin layer is spread evenly across the balcony surface, ensuring all areas are covered.

4. Drying time

The first layer must dry according to the manufacturer's recommendations before applying the next layer. This will allow the coating to cure properly and create adequate adhesion for the remaining elements of the entire balcony system.

5. Applying subsequent layers

Depending on requirements, subsequent layers of resin are applied, ensuring adequate drying time between them.