5500 Polyaspartic Polyurea Coating Roll Down Low Temp 30°F | 87% Solid

5500 Polyaspartic Coating coverage rate based on how thick applied. The 5500 at 87% solids, very little lost after it evaporates (compare to 50% solids product from big box stores which lose 1/2 coating to evaporation).  For 5 mil thick application, 5500 coverage rate 275 sq’/gallon or 550 sq’ total area with 2 gallon kit when used as a basecoat for basements or light foot traffic only projects. For garage projects, recommend 10 mils minimum base coating thickness.  Each 2 gallon kit covers 275 sq’ at 10 mils thick.  Can apply up to 10-12 mils thick in a one coat application.

CURE SCHEDULE

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS

Preparation  Concrete

Concrete must have a minimum 28 day cure prior to application. Remove any curing agent, form release materials, oils, wax, moisture or any material that may effect bonding. Clean and wash to remove contaminants and maintain pH 8.0-11.0. *Perform a Moisture Vapor Test before making the coating application on concrete. Can use the ASTC CMW 8000 to help reduce hydrostatic vapor pressure prior to application of the 5500.

Use a concrete (diamond) grinder on the surface to provide rough profile minimum 2 mils (remove slick, smooth surface so concrete feels like a 100 grit sandpaper). Review ASTM D4259 Abrading Concrete and ASTM F1869 Measuring Moisture Vapor Emission. Seal/repair all bug-holes, cracks and spalls, see ASTC data sheets on 830, 4034 and 3004 (joints).

Steel;

Near white sand blast per SSPC-SP10/NACE 2. Welds, seams, edges, etc. grind/blast smooth and provide 2 mil profile.  Priming 5500 for use on steel, use 7001 Primer, allow a set time of about one to two hours before coating with 5500.  Do not exceed 4 to 6 hours before primer is coated

Wood, Fiberglass:

Water-blast and dry. Fill wood and fiberglass cracks, splits, voids or holidays using a compatible filler ( 830).

Moisture Vapor Reduction: 5500 Polyurea Coating may be applied over other coatings or epoxy base coats.  If recoat window exceeded, will need to sand the basecoat to rough up the surface and provide a profile first prior to application of the 5500.  For the best applications over concrete surfaces a moisture vapor barrier like the CMW 8000 may be used as part of a “systems approach”.

PRODUCT MIXING: READ CAREFULLY.  Improper Mixing May Result In Product Failure. This Product Has A One To One Mix Ratio By Volume- Mix 1 part by volume Of Part A With 1 part by volume Of Part B. ( Example: to mix 1 gallon total 5500 to get started, measure 1/2 gallon Part A and mix with 1/2 gallon Part B).  Do not change the proportions and recommend do not mix more than you can use in 15 minutes.

Improper mixing may result in product failure.

For best mixing results and proper blending of parts A and B, recommend a Jiffy Mixer style drill mixer.

Mix parts A and B separately by themselves in a container one to two minutes with a Jiffy Mixer first before combing parts A and B together.  Clean mixing tool with solvent after mixing part A before mixing part B to prevent starting the chemical reaction and shortening cure time.  Then pour Part B into Part A while mixing at slow speed, 650 rpm until a uniform blend is evident and streak Free.  Avoid Whipping Air Into The Coating during mixing.  Mix completely for approximately one to two minutes.

Be sure to work the bottom and edges of the bucket to ensure the entire contents of each part are mixed. The colored veins need to disappear. If the two components are not mixed completely the epoxy will not cross-link well and can develop curing problems that will lead to a substandard coating.  In 5500 that is colored, improper mixing can result in uneven color when pigment is not fully blended.

It’s very important when mixing not to run the drill too fast or pump the mixing paddle up and down. Doing either of these this will introduce air into the mix which will be rolled into the coating and create air bubbles at the surface. The 5500 should have a nice even consistency without any color streaks.

Use of an improper drill mixer can result in streaking of the color because the pigment has not been thoroughly blended.  It can also create curing problems if the hardener also called activator (Part B) is not thoroughly blended with the resin (Part A) which can cause some areas on your floor to remain soft and not harden properly.  DO NOT USE A PAINT MIXER.  Many mixing problems described above can be traced back to using a paint mixer..  DO NOT HAND MIX as this approach can also result in the same problems as using a paint mixer.

****IMPORTANT NOTE AFTER MIXING:****

Once parts A&B are thoroughly mixed, immediately pour 100% of all mixed product on the floor in a ribbon pattern, S or W shape over the area you want that amount of product to cover. The risk of leaving product in the bucket is that it will become hard and reduce the working time by a minimum of 50% and may harden and start smoking in the bucket before you get back to it.

Pour the 5500 out on the floor immediately after mixing and do not let the 5500 sit in the bucket.  Leaving it in the bucket for as little as a minute or two can shorten the pot life by half or more.

Adding Pigment

Pigment is shipped in a  separate container and added to the 5500 at the time of mixing.  Use 10-12 oz of pigment provided by ASTC per gallon of mixed 5500 (Example:  1/2 gallon Part A and 1/2 gallon Part B = 1 mixed gallon then add 10-12 oz pigment and for White color 12-14 oz pigment per gallon).

Do not use other pigments as they are not formulated with the proper base materials that are compatible with the 5500.  Do not overload the 5500 with pigment.

Important:  When adding pigment to the 5500 when it is used as a basecoat, it is helpful to add about 4 oz of Xylene per mixed gallon of product and pigment mix.  The addition of the solvent helps with the dispersion of the pigment and the penetration of the 5500 into the substrate.

Application

Application range; 30°F to 100°F. Apply the product using a roller or a notched squeegee or similar squeegee to move the product over the application area. Hot surfaces may accelerate gel time of the product.  Product should be back-rolled using a short nap roller, about ¼” to 3/8”. **Apply in thin films from 5,8 or 10 mils per coat. Do not apply thicker then 10-12 mils at one time.  Thicker coats will require more time to dry to achieve optimum film properties. Similarly, lower temperatures and higher humidity conditions will increase dry time of each coat.

Re-coat Time; apply a second coat as soon as the first coat can be walked on, 1 to 2 hours (press thumb hard into 5500 and if no thumb print, ready to recoat).  If recoat window is exceeded, sand lightly with a 100 grit sander to produce a profile, wipe with acetone and re-coat.  Freshly applied coatings should not be exposed to water for at least 2 hours, do not apply if rain is in the forecast. Allow the coating to cure for at least 24 hours prior to being placed into full service. Some low to moderate use can be achieved after 4 hours. Cure is affected by high humidity.

Slow Set version in high humidity may set in as little as 1.5 hours. The Slow Set version may take up to 8 hours to set in low humidity conditions and may require 3 to 5 days before vehicle traffic may have access to the coated area

Refer to the cure schedule as a guideline to follow, in addition we strongly recommend to test the coating before recoating or topcoating. This is done by pressing your thumb on the coating in multiple places to ensure a fingerprint impression is not visible. If there is no impression visible, then coating the floor can be done. Note, colder or hotter than 75 degrees can affect the curing time schedule  

Cleaning

Mixers, spray equipment, etc. can all be easily cleaned with water while product is in the uncured state. If the product is allowed to dry on a tool, scraping and solvent may be necessary to remove the material. Tools that experience periodic use such as agitator blades should be kept in water to prevent curing of residual material between uses.

Limitations:

• Pot life is effected by environmental temperatures and humidity.
• Do not use on wet surfaces or expose part A to moisture.
• Keep out of direct sunlight and store the product kits on wood pallets at room temperature. Use a Nitrogen blanket over unused product for proper storage and protection from humidity.
• Use 5500-HH in humid, warm conditions as cure time will be accelerated due to humidity and temperature, avoid using the 5500 Fast system in such conditions.
• Surface may be slippery when wet, recommend using an anti-slip additive in applications where floor can become wet.

Cold Storage System Applications:

CMW 8000, 5500 Polyurea Coating & 3003 Control Joint Filler When using the 8000 for moisture vapor reduction and densifying, allow the product application to set for 48 to 72 hours before the application of a 5500 seal coat. Make sure that the 8000 treated surface is thoroughly clean before the 8000 dries and assure no puddles or excess product remains on the surface. The application of the 5500 may follow the 8000 application after the proper cure time of the 8000.

For Cold Storage applications this cure procedure is important. After the application of the 5500 at ambient temperatures has been made over the treated concrete allow approximately 8 to 12 hours cure time. When the 5500 is cured the storage are may be brought down in temperature slowly avoiding thermal cold shock. For Slow System applications of the 5500 allow 3 to 5 days or more cure time before bringing down the temperature of the area.

The 5500 has been tested for use in temperatures below 20F with no adverse problems – at that temperature the concrete has dehydrated and it has also contracted or shrunk. Lower below zero temperatures may add only minor shrinkage to the slab. The concrete may not contract very much after that temperature and the coating will perform in cold temperatures. However, the concrete should be at or below 20F before any control joints are filled. If Control Joints are filled at warm ambient temperatures and the building is then brought down to a cold temperature the control joints will open as the concrete contracts and the joints become larger. Always fill control joints at cold temperatures or working temperatures using 3003 or 3004 (see data sheet on these products.)

NOTICE TO BUYER: DISCLAIMER OF WARRANTIES AND LIMITATIONS ON OUR LIABILITY We warrant that our products are manufactured to strict quality assurance specifications and that the information supplied by us is accurate to the best of our knowledge. Such information supplied about our products is not a representation or a warranty. It is supplied on the condition that you shall make your own tests to determine the suitability of our product for your particular purpose. Any use or application other than recommended herein is the sole responsibility of the user. Listed physical properties are typical and should not be construed as specifications. NO WARRANTY IS MADE, EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED, REGARDING SUCH OTHER INFORMATION, THE DATA ON WHICH IT IS BASED, OR THE RESULTS YOU WILL OBTAIN FROM ITS USE. N0 WARRANTY IS MADE, EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED, THAT OUR PRODUCT SHALL BE MERCHANTABLE OR THAT OUR PRODUCT SHALL BE FIT FOR ANY PARTICULAR PURPOSE. NO WARRANTY IS MADE THAT THE USE OF SUCH INFORMATION OR OUR PRODUCT WILL NOT INFRINGE UPON ANY PATENT. We shall have no liability for incidental or consequential damages, direct or indirect. Our liability is limited to the net selling price of our product or the replacement of our product, at our option. Acceptance of delivery of our product means that you have accepted the terms of this warranty whether or not purchase orders or other documents state terms that vary from this warranty. No representative is authorized to make any representation or warranty or assume any other liability on our behalf with any sale of our products. Our products contain chemicals that may CAUSE SERIOUS PHYSICAL INJURY. BEFORE USING, READ THE MATERIAL SAFETY DATA SHEET AND FOLLOW ALL PRECAUTIONS TO PREVENT BODILY HARM.

What is 5500 Polyaspartic Coating?

5500 Polyaspartic is a two-component, high-solids, aliphatic polyaspartic coating designed to protect and waterproof concrete surfaces. It creates a durable, UV-stable, fast-curing finish that resists wear, chemicals, and moisture.

It’s commonly used on:

• Garage floors
• Driveways
• Patios & walkways
• Commercial & Industrial floors
• Clear Topcoat for Colored Chips & Quartz
• Decks, Wood Structures
• Interior & Exterior Applications
• Concrete & Wood Countertops

Is 5500 Polyaspartic waterproof?

Yes — 5500 Polyaspartic is waterproof and moisture-resistant, forming a seamless barrier that protects concrete from water intrusion.

• Helps prevent surface damage and deterioration
• Ideal for exterior environments
• Suitable for areas exposed to rain and humidity

Many formulations also include elastomeric flexibility, allowing the coating to move with the substrate without cracking.

How is 5500 Polyaspartic different from epoxy?

The biggest differences are cure speed, UV resistance, and durability:

• Faster cure time (often same-day return to service)
• UV stable (won’t yellow like epoxy)
• Better flexibility and impact resistance
• Can be applied in wider temperature ranges

Polyaspartic is typically used as a topcoat or full system upgrade over epoxy.

How long does 5500 Polyaspartic take to cure?

Cure time depends on the version (fast set ,slow set and high humidity versions), but generally:

• Working time: ~15–30 minutes
• Light foot traffic: 4–8 hours
• Full cure: 24–48 hours

This fast cure allows minimal downtime, making it ideal for residential and commercial jobs.

Can 5500 Polyaspartic be applied in cold weather?

Yes — one of the biggest advantages is low-temperature application.

• Can be applied in temperatures as low as ~35°F (-1°C)
• Great for winter installs and tight project timelines

Is 5500 Polyaspartic good for outdoor use?

Absolutely. It is designed for exterior performance:

• UV-resistant (won’t yellow or chalk)
• Handles rain, sun, and temperature swings
• Ideal for driveways, patios, and walkways

How is 5500 Polyaspartic applied?

Application is straightforward and contractor-friendly:

1. Mix Part A + Part B (typically 1:1 ratio)
2. Pour onto surface
3. Spread with squeegee
4. Backroll for even finish

Does 5500 Polyaspartic require a primer?

In many cases, no — it is often self-priming on properly prepared concrete.

However, a primer is recommended if:

• Concrete is very porous
• Moisture issues are present
• You want maximum adhesion on difficult surfaces

For projects requiring a primer, suggest the 7001 Moisture Cured Polyurethane which is a quick cure, single component for both concrete and steel projects and is an excellent companion to the 5500 or our E5015 Epoxy Primer which offers 20 colors and a long 1+ hour working time.

How durable is 5500 Polyaspartic?

5500 Polyaspartic is extremely durable and designed for high-traffic environments:

• Excellent abrasion resistance
• Chemical and stain resistance
• Resists hot tire pickup
• Long-lasting finish for residential and commercial use

Is 5500 Polyaspartic slippery?

It can be slippery when wet, but this is easily solved by adding:

• Anti-slip aggregate
• Aluminum oxide or silica sand

This creates a safe, textured surface without sacrificing appearance.  For a full list of our anti-slip additives check out our Anti-Slip Page.

Can I use 5500 Polyaspartic over epoxy?

Yes — it’s commonly used as a topcoat over epoxy systems to add:

• UV protection
• Scratch resistance
• Faster cure time

Check out the 6009 Epoxy Floor Coating for a companion product to the 5500 polyaspartic.

What surfaces can it be applied to?

5500 Polyaspartic works on:

• Concrete (primary surface)
• Previously coated floors (with proper prep)
• Decorative flake or quartz systems

Proper surface prep is critical for adhesion.

What preparation is required before application?

Surface prep is the most important step:

• Grind or etch concrete
• Remove dirt, oil, and coatings
• Repair cracks and damage
• Ensure surface is dry and sound

Skipping prep is the #1 cause of coating failure.

Does 5500 Polyaspartic smell strong?

Many versions are low-odor compared to traditional coatings, making them more user-friendly for indoor applications.

Is 5500 Polyaspartic worth it?

If you want:

• Fast installation
• Long-term durability
• Professional-grade finish

Then yes — it’s one of the best-performing concrete coatings available, especially compared to standard epoxy systems. For help with your project, contact us at 630-675-4509 or [email protected] for customized support!