Arm-R-Seal VS Polyurethane: Which Sealant is Best for Your Project?


If you’re looking for the best sealant for your next project, you have a lot of choices. Two of the most popular types of sealants are Arm-R-Seal and Polyurethane. Both have their pros and cons, so how do you decide which one is right for you?

In this blog post, we’ll compare Arm-R-Seal vs Polyurethane to help you make the right decision.

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What Is Arm-R-Seal And What Are Its Benefits?

Arm-R-Seal is a durable, long-lasting topcoat made with the highest quality urethane resin. It is specially formulated to provide excellent protection against moisture and UV rays. 

This makes it an ideal choice for outdoor projects that are exposed to the elements. 

Arm-R-Seal also provides a beautiful, high gloss finish that is perfect for both indoor and outdoor projects. It can be applied using a cloth or brush. It is also easy to apply

The benefits of using Arm-R-Seal are numerous.

  • It is an extremely durable topcoat that will protect your project from moisture and UV rays.
  • Beautiful High Gloss Finish
  • It is easy to apply and can be done so using a cloth or brush.
  • Arm-R-Seal is a great choice for both indoor and outdoor projects due to the water-proof finish it provides.

If you are looking for a durable, long-lasting topcoat that will provide excellent protection against the elements, then Arm-R-Seal is the perfect choice for you.

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What Is Polyurethane And What Are Its Benefits?

Polyurethane is a sealant that is created when two chemicals, glycol, and isocyanate, are reacted. 

This reaction creates a product that is very versatile and can be used in many different ways. Polyurethane has many benefits that make it a great choice for your next project.

Polyurethane is a flexible compound. It is a great choice for projects that require good resistance to moisture and corrosion. It is also a good choice for projects that need a sealant that can withstand high temperatures.

The benefits of using Polyurethane are numerous.

  • Polyurethane is much more resistant to abrasion than other sealants on the market.
  • Polyurethane is also much more resistant to cutting and tearing than other sealants.
  • Polyurethane can bear a significant amount of weight without breaking or tearing.
  • Polyurethane can be molded into thick sections without losing its shape or breaking.
  • Polyurethane can be dyed any color you desire, making it a great choice for projects that need to match a certain color scheme.
  • Polyurethane is resistant to oil and grease, making it a good choice for projects that will be exposed to these substances.
  • Polyurethane is also resistant to ozone, making it a good choice for projects that will be exposed to the outdoors.
  • Polyurethane is also resistant to radiation, making it a good choice for projects that will be exposed to high levels of radiation.

Polyurethane is a great choice for many different types of projects. It has a variety of benefits that make it the perfect choice for your next project.

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How Do Arm-R-Seal Vs. Polyurethane Compare In Terms Of Cost, Ease Of Use, Durability, And Other Factors?

There are several key factors to consider when choosing a sealant for your next project. Cost, ease of use, and durability are all important considerations. 

Let’s take a closer look at how Arm-R-Seal and Polyurethane compare in these key areas.

  • Cost: Both Arm-R-Seal and Polyurethane are relatively affordable sealants. Polyurethane is typically a bit cheaper than Arm-R-Seal, but the price difference is usually fairly small.
  • Ease of Use: Arm-R-Seal is generally easier to use than Polyurethane. It has a lower risk of drips and runs, and it’s easier to apply evenly.
  • Durability: Polyurethane is more durable than Arm-R-Seal. It can withstand more wear and tear, and it won’t yellow or fade over time.

Aside from the cost, ease of use, and durability, there are still other factors to consider when choosing a sealant. The type of project you’re working on, the climate you’re in, and your personal preferences will all play a role in your decision.

  • Type of project you’re working on: Both Arm-R-Seal and Polyurethane can be used for a variety of applications. However, Polyurethane is generally a better choice for projects that will be exposed to high temperatures or harsh weather conditions.
  • The climate you’re in can also affect your decision. If you live in an area with high humidity, Arm-R-Seal is a better option because it’s less likely to peel or crack in humid conditions.

Ultimately, the best sealant for your project depends on your specific needs and preferences. Weigh the pros and cons of each type of sealant before making your final decision.

Which Sealant Is Best For Your Project?

If you’re like most people, you probably think that all sealants are the same. But when it comes to your home improvement projects, using the wrong sealant can mean the difference between success and failure. So which one is best for your project? 

If you need a sealant that provides a durable finish, Arm-R-Seal is a great choice. 

If you need a more flexible sealant that can withstand heat and sunlight, Polyurethane is a better choice. 

No matter which sealant you choose, be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the best results.

Let’s take a look at the two most popular types of sealants: Arm-R-Seal and Polyurethane:

Arm-R-Seal is a popular choice for sealing woodworking projects. It’s easy to apply and dries quickly, making it a great choice for busy do-it-yourselfers. Arm-R-Seal also provides a durable, long-lasting finish that resists scratches and stains.

Polyurethane is another popular sealant, and like Arm-R-Seal, it is also easy to apply. However, Polyurethane has a few advantages over Arm-R-Seal. First, it is more flexible, so it’s less likely to crack or peel over time. Second, it is more resistant to heat and sunlight, making it a good choice for outdoor projects.

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Is Arm-R-Seal The Same As Polyurethane?

No, Arm-R-Seal is not the same as Polyurethane. Although both products are sealants, they have different properties and uses. 

Here’s a more detailed look at the two products:

Arm-R-Seal is a synthetic resin that cures to a hard, durable finish.  It is often used to seal woodworking projects because it provides a long-lasting finish.

Polyurethane is a polymer that cures to a flexible, rubbery finish. It is more resistant to heat and sunlight than Arm-R-Seal, making it a good choice for outdoor projects. Polyurethane is also more flexible, so it is less likely to crack or peel over time.

Is Arm-R-Seal A Wipe On Poly?

Yes,  Arm-R-Seal is a wipe-on poly. You can easily apply it with a lint-free cloth. 

Wipe-on poly is ideal for furniture, cabinets, and trim. It gives your projects a beautiful hand-rubbed finish that will last for years.

Is Arm-R-Seal A Lacquer?

No, Arm-R-Seal is not a lacquer. It is an oil-based urethane sealer/topcoat that was developed specifically for use on wood projects. It can be used on both finished and unfinished wood surfaces.

Do You Need To Sand Between Coats Of Arm-R-Seal?

No, you don’t need to sand between coats of Arm-R-Seal unless you’re trying to achieve a very high level of gloss. If you’re happy with a satin sheen, then you can just apply additional coats without sanding in between.

What’s The Difference Between Urethane And Polyurethane?

Urethane and polyurethane are two different types of synthetic materials. Urethane is a plastic made from petroleum, while polyurethane is a polymer made from both petroleum and natural gas. Polyurethanes are tougher and more durable than urethanes, making them the better choice for high-traffic areas or areas that will see a lot of wear and tear.

Urethanes are more flexible than polyurethanes, making them better suited for projects that require a bit of giving. They’re also a little more expensive than polyurethanes, so if you’re working on a budget, polyurethane might be the way to go.

So, which one is right for your project? If you need a tough, durable finish that can stand up to a lot of wear and tear, go with polyurethane. If you need something a little more flexible, urethane might be the better choice.

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Is Arm-R-Seal Waterproof?

Yes, Arm-R-Seal is waterproof. It is a durable, protective sealant that can withstand harsh weather conditions and protect your surfaces from water damage.

How To Apply Arm-R-Seal

Applying Arm-R-Seal is not difficult, but there are a few things you need to know to do it properly. 

Here are some tips:

  • Make sure the surface you’re going to be working on is clean, dry, and free of dust. If you’re applying Arm-R-Seal to bare wood, you’ll need to sand it first. If the wood is already sealed, you can skip this step.
  • Start by applying a thin layer of sealant with a brush or rag, working in the direction of the grain.
  • Let the first coat dry completely before applying a second.
  • If you see bubbles forming in the sealant, pop them with a pin and smooth out the area.
  • Once you’ve applied the desired number of coats, let the surface dry completely before using it.

With these tips in mind, you’ll be able to apply Arm-R-Seal like a pro!

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Kevin Nelson

I will always have a special place in my heart for woodworking. I have such fond memories working on projects with my parents on the weekends in the garage growing up. We built tables, shelves, a backyard shed, 10' base for a water slide into the pool, 2 story fort playhouse with a fire pole, and so much more. This woodworking blog allows me to write helpful articles so others can enjoy woodworking as much as we have.

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