What is Cold Polyurea waterproofing? – Understanding Cold Polyurea Coating Technology
Introduction to Cold Polyurea
Cold polyurea products are becoming vastly popular in the waterproofing industry because they can be conveniently mixed and applied by hand. These are a type of polyurea coating systems specifically formulated to be applied at ambient temperatures, without the need for expensive high-pressure or heated spray equipment, such as a Graco HPCF (High Performance Coatings & Foam) spray reactor. These reactors require the plural components of hot-spray polyurea systems to be sprayed efficiently at 3,000 PSI, at a minimum temperature of 70 degrees Celsius with curing times of a couple of seconds. Unlike traditional hot-spray polyurea systems, cold polyurea waterproofing systems use modified formulations to cure effectively at room temperature, making it ideal for projects where end users are looking for the high performing physical properties of polyurea but want to save on the purchase of an expensive HPCF spray reactor.
How Cold Polyurea Works
Cold polyurea coatings are typically applied using a roller, brush, or low-pressure spray systems. These coatings still provide fast curing times and excellent elongation, tensile strength, and chemical resistance—hallmarks of all polyurea systems. Cold polyurea also adheres well to a range of substrates, including concrete, wood, and metal.
Advantages of Cold Polyurea
One of the main benefits of cold polyurea is its ease of use in environments where access to HPCF spray reactor specialized equipment. It’s often used in smaller-scale waterproofing or repair works, secondary containment areas, or in remote or sensitive locations. Cold polyurea offers similar protective qualities to hot-spray polyurea but with greater flexibility for on-site application. Certain Cold polyurea systems also pass anti-root capabilities for podium and planters waterproofing.