
Durabak is a versatile polyurethane coating that can be applied to a variety of surfaces, including concrete, metals, wood, fibreglass, rubber, tiles, and plastic. It is known for its exceptional non-slip properties and is often used on boats and in marine applications. While Durabak can be painted over properly cured paint, it is important to prepare the surface by cleaning, drying, and roughening it to ensure proper adhesion. This preparation process involves removing any contaminants, such as oil or wax, and testing a small area to ensure compatibility. Additionally, a primer may be necessary for certain metal applications. Durabak is a self-levelling product, and a second coat is recommended for enhanced durability and to create a strong membrane.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Adhesion | DURABAK exhibits good adhesion to new acrylic and polyurethane primers when applied and overcoated according to the manufacturer's recommendations. |
| Application | DURABAK can be applied with a soft paintbrush, in two coats at right angles to one another. It can also be applied using rollers or conventional spray equipment. |
| Surface Preparation | All smooth metal surfaces should be thoroughly cleaned, aggressively roughened, and primed with an etch primer. On sound-painted surfaces, paint must be fully dried or cured to the manufacturer's specifications. |
| Intercoat/Curing Time | Extreme climactic conditions of heat, humidity, and cold can shorten or lengthen this period. The use of a special accelerator may significantly shorten the curing time. |
| Weight | Applying DURABAK to a surface can add significant weight. |
| Water Resistance | While not advertised as waterproof, DURABAK is highly water-resistant and can be used on RV roofs with additional coats for enhanced water resistance. |
| Rust Treatment | When applying DURABAK over a rusty surface, it is essential to remove loose and flaky rust and treat the surface with a chemical rust neutralizer before painting. |
| Cost | Prices start at $89.95 per gallon, with one gallon covering approximately 50 to 60 square feet with two coats. |
| Durability | DURABAK is known for its durability and ability to withstand fuel spills, oil spills, rock chips, submersion in water, and UV fading. |
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What You'll Learn

Durabak can be painted over existing paint or bare metal
Durabak can be applied to all sorts of surfaces and materials, including existing paint and bare metal. However, proper preparation is essential to ensure a successful application.
When applying Durabak over existing paint, it is important to ensure that the paint is fully dried or cured to the manufacturer's specifications. The solvents in Durabak will not soften or attack properly dried or cured paint. It is also recommended to degrease the surface with MEK and lightly sand the existing paint to create a good adhesion.
If applying Durabak over bare metal, the metal surface should be thoroughly cleaned, aggressively roughened, and primed with an etch primer that is compatible with moisture-cured polyurethanes. Durabak adheres well to cured painted metal and exhibits good adhesion to new acrylic and polyurethane primers applied and overcoated according to the manufacturer's recommendations.
In both cases, proper preparation of the surface is key to ensuring the Durabak adheres properly and performs as expected. This may include roughening the surface, using a primer, and ensuring the surface is clean and free of any contaminants.
Additionally, it is important to note that Durabak should be applied in thin coats to avoid bubbling. It can be applied with a soft paintbrush or a roller, with each coat applied at right angles to the previous one. Between coats, it is recommended to pour a small amount of Xylene over the rollers to prevent them from drying out.
Overall, Durabak is a versatile product that can be applied over existing paint or bare metal, providing a durable and protective coating for a variety of surfaces and materials.
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Durabak can be applied with a soft paintbrush or textured rollers
Durabak is a versatile product that can be applied to various surfaces and materials, including metal, concrete, and wood. It is commonly used for its protective and decorative properties in applications such as boat decks, RV roofs, and vehicle coatings. One of the key advantages of Durabak is its ability to adhere well to different surfaces, including cured painted metal. Before applying Durabak, it is essential to follow the recommended preparation procedures. This includes ensuring that the surface is thoroughly cleaned, roughened, and primed with a suitable primer, such as an etch primer for metal surfaces or a rust neutralizer for rusty areas.
When applying Durabak, you have several options. It can be rolled on with textured rollers, brushed on with a soft paintbrush, or sprayed on using conventional spray equipment. Each method has its advantages and considerations. For example, textured rollers can create a specific surface finish, while soft paintbrushes allow for precise application. If spraying, it is important to thin the Durabak with Solvide or Xylene and wear a breathing mask. Additionally, Durabak should be mixed thoroughly before use to ensure the solids are evenly distributed.
The application process for Durabak typically involves applying two thin coats at right angles to each other. This ensures adequate coverage and a uniform finish. It is important to work quickly as Durabak dries fast and can be tricky to stick to the surface if it dries too soon. Between coats, it is recommended to pour a small amount of Xylene over rollers to prevent them from drying out. Proper curing time should also be allowed, and extreme climactic conditions can impact this period.
Durabak is known for its durability and ability to withstand various environmental conditions. It has been reported to hold up well against fuel spills, oil spills, rock chips, and submersion in water. Additionally, it provides excellent UV protection, making it suitable for outdoor applications. However, it is important to note that Durabak is heavy, and applying it to an entire vehicle can significantly increase its weight.
Overall, Durabak is a reliable and versatile coating option that can be applied with soft paintbrushes or textured rollers. By following the recommended preparation and application procedures, users can achieve a durable and aesthetically pleasing finish on a variety of surfaces. For specific instructions and recommendations, it is always advisable to refer to the manufacturer's guidelines and seek guidance from Durabak distributors.
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Durabak can be applied to all sorts of surfaces and materials
Durabak is a versatile product that can be applied to a wide range of surfaces and materials. It is commonly used on vehicles such as vans, trucks, and RVs, but it is also suitable for boats, as it is highly water-resistant and has exceptional non-slip properties. Durabak can be applied to both new and old paint, as well as bare metal, and is perfect for protecting fibreglass, wood, and aluminium boats.
When applying Durabak, it is important to follow the recommended preparation procedures for the specific surface. For example, when applying it over existing paint, the surface should be scuffed or roughened, and any old paint should be lightly sanded and degreased with MEK. On bare metal surfaces, it is essential to remove any rust by sanding and using a chemical rust neutralizer, which can also act as a primer.
Durabak adheres well to cured painted metal and exhibits good adhesion to new acrylic and polyurethane primers when applied and overcoated according to the manufacturer's recommendations. It can be applied with a soft paintbrush, textured rollers, or sprayed on with conventional spray equipment, although a large tip (1/4") and thinning with Solvide or Xylene are required for spraying.
Durabak is a heavy-duty product, and applying it to an entire van or camper can significantly increase the weight. Therefore, some people choose to apply it to specific areas, such as the Lower Rocker, or use it in combination with paint or other bed liners. Additionally, Durabak dries quickly, so it is important to work efficiently when applying it, especially when using rollers as the paint solvents can cause them to deteriorate.
Overall, Durabak is a versatile and durable product that can be applied to various surfaces and materials, making it a popular choice for protecting and enhancing vehicles, boats, and other applications.
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$11.99 $15.97

Durabak is highly water-resistant but not waterproof
Durabak is a versatile product with a wide range of applications. Notably, it is highly water-resistant, making it suitable for use in marine environments and on RV roofs. While it is not advertised as waterproof, it has proven effective in protecting surfaces from water damage.
Durabak's water-resistant properties are attributed to its ability to form a durable coating that repels water. When applied correctly, it can protect surfaces from moisture, preventing issues such as rot, warping, and peeling. This is especially beneficial for materials like plywood, which is susceptible to water damage and can compromise the structural integrity of construction projects.
To enhance its water-resistant properties, Durabak can be applied in multiple coats. The manufacturer recommends adding a coat or two to surfaces that require additional protection from water. This is particularly relevant for surfaces exposed to harsh weather conditions or frequent water contact.
Additionally, proper surface preparation is crucial for optimal water resistance. Before applying Durabak, surfaces should be thoroughly cleaned, roughened, and primed with compatible primers. Adequate preparation ensures that the Durabak coating adheres well and provides a robust barrier against moisture.
While Durabak offers excellent water resistance, it is not recommended for use in direct contact with drinking water. The manufacturer advises caution regarding the specific aspects of an application where it may come into contact with potable water. Therefore, while Durabak is highly water-resistant, it is not guaranteed to be waterproof for all possible applications.
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Durabak is heavy and can add a lot of weight to a vehicle
Durabak is a highly durable polyurethane coating used for truck bed liners and various other applications. It is available in a range of colours and can be applied by brush, roller, or spray. Due to its physical properties, Durabak can add significant weight to a vehicle.
The weight of Durabak is an important consideration when applying it to vehicles or other weight-sensitive applications. According to the product specifications, a quart of Durabak paint weighs approximately 11 pounds and has dimensions of 7 x 7 x 8 inches. This weight should be taken into account when applying Durabak to vehicles, especially in larger quantities or multiple coats.
The weight of Durabak can impact the overall weight of a vehicle, which can have implications for fuel efficiency, handling, and performance. While the exact weight impact will depend on the amount of Durabak applied and the surface area covered, it is important to consider the potential weight increase when using this product.
For example, let's consider a scenario where a vehicle owner wants to apply Durabak to the truck bed of their pickup truck. The truck bed has a surface area of approximately 50 square feet, which would require roughly one gallon of Durabak for a standard two-coat application. Based on the product specifications, one gallon of Durabak weighs 10 pounds, as per the spec sheet, or 11 pounds, as per the product label.
In this case, the additional weight added to the vehicle by the Durabak coating would be 10 to 11 pounds. While this may not seem like a significant amount, it is important to consider the potential impact on fuel efficiency and vehicle performance, especially when combined with other weight additions or cargo loads.
It is crucial to follow the manufacturer's recommendations and application guidelines to ensure proper adhesion and coverage. Additionally, consulting with automotive experts or professionals can provide specific advice on using Durabak for vehicle applications while managing weight considerations.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, you can paint over Durabak. However, it is important to note that you should only paint once the Durabak is fully cured. Additionally, ensure that you follow the recommended prep procedure, which includes roughing up the surface and wiping it with xylene.
Durabak can be applied using a soft paintbrush or a textured roller. It can also be sprayed on, but this may be tricky and require special equipment.
Durabak can be applied to a variety of surfaces and materials, including metal, concrete, and wood. However, proper surface preparation is essential for successful adhesion.
Two coats of Durabak are recommended for the best results. A single coat may appear light and flimsy, while the second coat adds durability and a heavier appearance.
Durabak offers excellent protection against fuel spills, oil spills, rock chips, and UV fading. It is also highly water-resistant and provides good non-slip properties, making it ideal for boats and other applications where traction is important.

































