What is the Difference Between Polyurethane Urethane and Varathane?
🆚 Go to Comparative Table 🆚The terms polyurethane, urethane, and varathane sound similar but have different meanings and applications. Here are the key differences between these terms:
- Polyurethane: Polyurethane is a polymer material that is available in both water- and oil-based options. It is used in various applications, including as a wood finish, adhesive, and foam. When used as a wood finish, polyurethane provides a durable, hard, and transparent coating that allows the wood to show its natural beauty while offering protection.
- Urethane: Urethane is the chemical linkage that forms when an isocyanate reacts with a hydroxyl or amine compound. It is not a wood stain but is a component found in many polyurethane products.
- Varathane: Varathane is a brand name for a type of wood stain that is water-based and provides a clear, hard, scratch-resistant finish on hardwood surfaces. It is not a polymer like polyurethane but rather a product designed to enhance the appearance and durability of wood surfaces.
In summary, polyurethane is a polymer material, urethane is a chemical linkage found in polyurethane products, and varathane is a branded wood stain. While both polyurethane and varathane can be used to finish wood surfaces, they serve different purposes and have different characteristics.
Comparative Table: Polyurethane Urethane vs Varathane
The main differences between polyurethane, urethane, and Varathane are their composition, properties, and applications. Here is a table summarizing their differences:
Feature | Polyurethane | Urethane | Varathane |
---|---|---|---|
Definition | Polyurethane is a polymer made from isocyanates and polyols, with repeating urethane linkages throughout the material. | Urethane is a chemical group found in polyurethane. | Varathane is a brand of wood stain and polyurethane finish. |
Composition | Polyurethane is made up of organic units of isocyanates and polyols. | Urethane is a part of the polyurethane composition. | Varathane offers a range of wood stains and finishes, including water-based and oil-based products. |
Properties | Polyurethane is rigid and firm. | Urethane is soft and malleable. | Varathane provides a clear, hardwood finish that is stain and scratch-resistant. |
Applications | Polyurethane is used in various applications due to its durability and adaptability, such as furniture, bedding, flooring, and heavy-duty coatings. | Urethane is a part of polyurethane and contributes to its properties. | Varathane is used for interior wood projects, such as floors, doors, furniture, cabinets, trim, paneling, and railings. |
Polyurethane and Varathane are both used to provide a good finish on wood surfaces, but polyurethane tends to offer a glossier finish, while Varathane focuses on bringing out the natural beauty of the wood.
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