Polyurethane vs Marine Finish – Know the Better One

Different finishes can be put on a wooden boat to protect it from the elements, but two of the most common and popular finishes are polyurethane and marine. In this article, we will look at both in-depth.

Polyurethane Finish

A high gloss polyurethane finish is what most people imagine when they think about a good finish for their wooden boat. The advantages of this type of finish include a very durable surface that is resistant to wear, scratches, dirt, and weathering.

A downside to this type of finish is that it will need more care than other types because it needs to be polished at least every six months to maintain its glossy sheen. Polishing urethane will also be one of the most expensive options for finishing the wooden boat.

Marine Finish

The marine finish has developed into something more than high gloss varnish. It is a highly protective, low sheen, mildew resistant finish that dries quickly and lasts long. It requires little or no maintenance because it needs to be polished every six months as polyurethane does. It comes in satin or glossy varieties. It originates from epoxy resins that are not as durable as polyurethane but hold up better than straight varnish, making it more resistant to scratches and dings.

Marine coatings are also less expensive than polyurethane and have a lower environmental impact. However, they lack flexibility in their application and do not mix well with other finishes.

Conclusion

Polyurethane and marine are two clear choices for finishing a wooden boat. Marine is a more durable option that requires less care and maintenance but is more expensive than polyurethane. Polyurethane is a popular finish because of its qualities. It has a glossy look and high sheen that will need little or no maintenance. Compared to other finishes, it will shine like glass and some people prefer this to protect their wood with varnish or another finish.

Polishing urethane tends to be more expensive than other types of finishes, but it offers superior protection against wear, scratches, dirt, and weathering compared to other types of wood finishes.