Polyester vs Polyurethane finish

What kind of finish is Polyester?

Polyester is a three-component paint that utilizes the resin + catalyst + accelerant. Thanks to its tight molecular structure, polyester has a solid content of +/- 96% which gives the product superior mechanical and chemical resistance, and limits the VOC content dispersed into the environment. Once catalyzed and dry, polyester emits no further VOC’s into the environment making it harmless to interior air quality.

The application of this class of finishes requires specialized equipment and machinery to produce a quality product. Polyester is specified when high scratch resistance and 100% sheen are required on commercial and residential projects, and when LEED compliance is necessary. 

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What kind of finish is Polyurethane?

Polyurethanes come in either a mono-component or bi-component product. Cavalieri utilizes the two component product consisting of resin + catalyst. Polyurethane’s high molecular weight forms a hard but elastic film, with good mechanical and chemical resistance.

Once catalyzed and dry, polyurethane emits no further VOC’s into the environment making it harmless to interior air quality. Polyurethane is specified when sheen requirements vary from 20% to 100% on commercial and residential projects, and when LEED compliance is not a requirement.

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What are the differences between Polyester and Polyurethane?

Polyester is +/- 96% solid content, polyurethane is between 50% to 65% solid content. Because polyester has a much higher solid content than polyurethane, polyester’s surface is stronger
making it less vulnerable to scratching and chemical cleaning. However, polyurethane is more flexible than polyester making it suitable for applications where flexibility is important.
Both polyester and polyurethane are UV stabilized.

Both polyester and polyurethane have the highest molecular structure and strength of all the finishes available, making them the preferred materials used by Cavalieri. These finish materials offer strength and beauty, and are ideal choices for all commercial/residential interior projects.