If you’ve been hunting for the ultimate DIY protective coating that ticks all the boxes, durability, versatility, and ease of application, then you’re in luck. We’ve put the Durabak 18 through its paces to bring you a comprehensive breakdown of what it can do for your projects.
In this Durabak 18 review, we’ll dive into the nitty-gritty of this product, sharing insider tips and real-life experiences, so you can confidently decide if it’s the perfect match for your coating needs.
Let’s get our hands dirty and explore this DIY marvel together!
Durabak 18 Review
Durabak 18 is a polyurethane protective coating that revolutionized the DIY world with its myriad applications. Designed for outdoor use and projects exposed to direct sunlight, this tough, flexible, slip-resistant, and waterproof coating ensures a professional-grade finish that’ll make you proud.
Released as a part of the Durabak family, the Smooth Version shares its phenomenal bonding capabilities with metal, concrete, wood, fiberglass, and coated surfaces. It makes repairs a breeze since it can even bond to itself.
Application is as easy as opening the can, stirring, and applying to a prepared surface using a roller, brush, or spray. It’s also available in 16 standard colors, so the Durabak 18 Smooth Version caters to every project’s aesthetic requirements.
While the original Durabak version has recycled rubber tire granules for a textured finish, the Smooth Version offers a sleek, refined look without compromising durability or performance. Its exceptional resilience against flaking, chipping, and peeling has earned it the trust of professionals and the approval of the US Navy for use on nuclear aircraft carriers like USS Harry S. Truman, USS Dwight D. Eisenhower, USS Theodore Roosevelt, and USS George Washington.
With such an impressive pedigree, you can be confident that Durabak 18 Smooth Version is the ultimate choice for your DIY coating projects.
Who Is It For?
Durabak 18 is perfect for DIY enthusiasts, hobbyists, and professionals who value a durable, versatile, and high-quality protective coating for their projects.
This coating is ideal for those working on outdoor applications, including home improvement, automotive customization, marine or industrial use, and more. Its ease of application and strong bonding capabilities make it suitable for various surfaces, from concrete and wood to fiberglass and metal.
Durabak 18 is not for those seeking a temporary or disposable solution, as it is designed to be long-lasting and tough. While it is easy to use, it may not be the best choice for someone uncomfortable with DIY projects or without the patience to prepare surfaces for application properly.
However, with a little effort and attention to detail, even beginners can achieve a professional finish.
The cost of Durabak 18 may be higher than some other coatings on the market, but its performance, durability, and versatility make it a worthwhile investment. It is especially cost-effective when considering its low maintenance requirements and potential repair savings in the long run.
What’s Included
Once you decide to invest in Durabak 18 Truck Bed Liner Outdoor UV, you will receive a can containing one quart or one gallon of the Durabak 18 Smooth protective coating, depending on the size and color you choose.
To apply Durabak 18 Smooth, you will need to separately purchase application tools such as a roller, brush, or spray gun, depending on your preferred method. Also, make sure to gather all necessary surface preparation materials like sandpaper, a wire brush, or a degreasing agent to clean and prep the surface for optimal adhesion.
Overview of Features
Discover the impressive array of features that make Durabak 18 a go-to protective coating for countless applications. Here, we’ll explore what sets this product apart, showcasing its versatility, durability, and adaptability for a wide range of surfaces and projects.
- Durability
Durabak 18 is built to withstand harsh conditions, providing excellent resistance against impact, vibration, and bending. Its long-lasting performance ensures your project remains well-protected.
- Flexibility and Waterproofing
Durabak 18’s polyurethane formulation offers flexibility, allowing the coating to expand and contract with the surface it’s applied to. This feature, combined with its waterproof capabilities, makes it suitable for use in various environments, including outdoor and marine applications.
- Slip-Resistance
Even though this is the smooth version, Durabak 18 still offers slip resistance, enhancing safety on surfaces where traction is crucial.
- Strong Adhesion
Durabak 18 is designed to bond to a wide range of materials, including concrete, wood, fiberglass, metal, and coated surfaces, making it a versatile choice for numerous projects.
- UV Resistance
This version of Durabak 18 is specifically formulated for outdoor use or applications exposed to direct sunlight, ensuring that its color and performance remain consistent over time.
- Ease of Application and Repair
The one-part, moisture-cured coating can be applied with a roller, brush, or spray, making it accessible for both professionals and DIY enthusiasts. It also bonds to itself, simplifying repairs if needed.
- Multiple Color Options
With 16 colors available, Durabak 18 caters to various aesthetic preferences and project requirements.
- Finish
While the Smooth Version offers a sleek, refined look, those looking for a more aggressive non-slip surface with textured granules may need to opt for the original Durabak version.
- Price
Durabak 18 might be more expensive than other protective coatings, but its performance and versatility justify the investment.
- Surface Preparation
Proper surface preparation is crucial for optimal adhesion, which may be challenging for beginners or those unfamiliar with DIY projects.
Pros:
- Versatile application
- Customizable texture
- Easy application
- Felxible
- Excellent topcoat
- Good customer service
Cons:
- Heavy texture could lead to sagging
- May require more than one coat
- Potential difficulty finding a suitable air sprayer
- Usage of a respirator and gloves
How To Use
By following these steps, you can apply Durabak 18 to your truck bed and enjoy its long-lasting protection and durability:
- Prepare the Surface
Before applying Durabak 18, make sure your truck bed is clean and free from dirt, rust, oil, or debris.
Sand the surface with 80-grit sandpaper to create a rough texture to help the coating adhere better. Clean the surface with a solvent such as acetone or denatured alcohol to remove any remaining contaminants.
- Mix the Durabak 18
Open the can of Durabak 18 and stir it thoroughly to ensure the solids are well mixed with the liquid. You can use a paint mixer attachment for a power drill for better results. Do not dilute the coating with any other solvent.
- Apply the Durabak 18
Apply the Durabak 18 to your truck bed using a brush, roller, or spray gun. For a smoother finish, use a foam roller or a high-volume, low-pressure (HVLP) spray gun.
Apply the coating in thin and even layers, avoiding any pooling or dripping. Allow the first coat to dry for at least 12 hours before applying the second coat.
- Let It Cure
Allow the Durabak 18 to cure for at least 48 hours before using your truck. Avoid exposing the coating to moisture or rain during this period. The coating will reach its full hardness and durability after seven days.
- Maintain the Coating
To maintain the Durabak 18 coating, clean your truck bed regularly with soap and water.
Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners that could damage the coating. If you need to repair any damage, sand the affected area lightly, clean it with a solvent, and apply a thin layer of Durabak 18 to the spot.
Alternatives
If you’re considering alternatives to Durabak 18, you might want to explore the following options:
1. Herculiner HCL1B8 Brush-on Bed Liner Kit
As a polyurethane-based bed liner, Herculiner HCL1B8 is an excellent alternative to Durabak 18. It provides a skid-resistant, protective coating for truck beds and other surfaces.
This tough, textured finish is resistant to gasoline, oil, solvents, and chemicals, making it ideal for projects where chemical resistance is crucial. Herculiner is also known for its bonding strength and easy brush-on application, making it a user-friendly option.
2. Rust-Oleum 248914 Truck Bed Coating Spray
Rust-Oleum 248914 is another worthy alternative, delivering a textured, non-skid finish on various surfaces, including metal, concrete, wood, and fiberglass. Its key features are durability, abrasion resistance, and protection against rust, impact, and harsh weather conditions.
The spray application allows for quick and even coverage, making it suitable for projects requiring a convenient and time-saving approach.
3. Krylon K04293007 Aerosol Spray Paint
Krylon K04293007 is a unique alternative focusing on decorative and camouflage applications rather than heavy-duty protection.
This aerosol spray paint works well on plastic, metal, wood, and other surfaces. Its Fusion for Plastic Paint Technology ensures excellent adhesion, quick drying times, and a durable, chip-resistant finish.
The ultra-flat, non-reflective paint suits projects where blending with the surroundings or achieving a specific camouflage look is essential.
Is Durabak 18 Right For You?
After a thorough Durabak 18 review, we conclude that it’s an exceptional choice for DIY enthusiasts and professionals seeking a top-tier protective coating. Its versatility, ease of application, and compatibility with various surfaces make it the ultimate go-to solution for many projects.
Available in both textured and smooth versions, Durabak 18 caters to different aesthetic preferences and functional needs. With 16 standard colors to choose from and the possibility of custom colors for larger orders, personalizing your project has never been easier.
The approval of Durabak 18 for use on US Navy nuclear aircraft carriers speaks volumes about its resilience and reliability.
Although the initial investment may be higher than some alternatives, the benefits of Durabak 18 make it a cost-effective option in the long run.
So, whether you’re working on a truck bed, boat deck, or industrial project, Durabak 18 Truck Bed Liner Coating is a powerful ally that will undoubtedly exceed your expectations.
