
( Brand: Excelsior ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: U-705 ), ( Container Size: 4 Gallons ), ( Type: Urethane Adhesive / Wet Set Adhesive ), ( Features: Waterproof, Single Component, Voc Free, Solvent Free ), ( Coverage: Varies By Trowel Size ), ( Suitable For: Rubber Flooring, Athletic Flooring, Resilient Flooring, Vinyl )
The **Excelsior U-705 Urethane Set Flooring Adhesive** is a high-performance, two-part polyurethane-based adhesive formulated specifically for demanding flooring applications where durability, flexibility, and long-term stability are critical. Engineered for professional installers and contractors, this gallon-pail adhesive delivers an exceptionally strong bond while maintaining remarkable resilience against wear, moisture, and temperature fluctuations making it ideal for both commercial and residential settings. Its urethane formulation ensures superior adhesion to a wide range of substrates, including concrete, wood, metal, and prefinished vinyl, tile, and laminate flooring, while its self-leveling properties allow for seamless application over uneven surfaces up to 1/8 inch in variation. The adhesive s slow-setting, urethane chemistry provides ample working time for precise placement and alignment of flooring materials, reducing the risk of misalignment or shifting during installation. Once cured, the U-705 forms a flexible, yet rigid bond that resists cracking, peeling, and delamination over time, even in high-traffic areas or environments with heavy equipment. Its resistance to solvents, oils, and chemicals further enhances its suitability for industrial floors, garages, and commercial spaces where spills and harsh conditions are common. The gallon-pail format ensures cost efficiency for large-scale projects, offering a substantial volume of adhesive that can cover expansive areas without frequent interruptions for refilling. Whether used for underlayment adhesion, floating floor systems, or heavy-duty tile installation, the Excelsior U-705 delivers professional-grade performance with minimal maintenance, making it a trusted choice for flooring professionals seeking reliability and longevity in their installations.
**Pros and Cons of buying a Excelsior U-705 Urethane Set Flooring Adhesive (Gallon Pail)**
### **Pros**
1. **High Durability and Performance** Urethane-based adhesives like the U-705 are known for their strong bonding capabilities, resistance to moisture, and longevity. This makes them ideal for heavy-duty flooring applications, including commercial spaces, garages, and high-traffic residential areas.
2. **Versatility** The U-705 is designed for use with a wide range of flooring materials, including sheet vinyl, linoleum, rubber, and some types of tile. Its compatibility with multiple substrates expands its usefulness for various projects.
3. **Moisture Resistance** Unlike some solvent-based or water-based adhesives, urethane adhesives like this one are resistant to moisture, preventing delamination and ensuring a stable bond even in damp or humid conditions. This is particularly beneficial for basements, bathrooms, or areas prone to spills.
4. **Long Shelf Life** Urethane adhesives typically have a longer shelf life compared to some other types, reducing waste if you don t use the entire pail immediately. Properly sealed, this adhesive can remain usable for months or even years.
5. **Easy Application** The gallon pail size makes it convenient for larger projects, and urethane adhesives generally have a smooth, consistent viscosity that is easy to spread evenly with a notched trowel or roller.
6. **Low Odor and Faster Cure Time** Compared to some older solvent-based adhesives, urethane adhesives like the U-705 tend to have lower VOCs (volatile organic compounds), resulting in less odor during application and a quicker cure time, allowing for faster installation completion.
7. **Resistance to Temperature Fluctuations** Urethane adhesives maintain their bonding properties across a range of temperatures, making them suitable for climates with significant seasonal changes.
---
### **Cons**
1. **Higher Cost** Urethane adhesives are generally more expensive than alternative options like water-based or solvent-based adhesives. The price per gallon may be prohibitive for small or budget-conscious projects.
2. **Limited Compatibility with Some Materials** While versatile, the U-705 may not be suitable for all flooring types, such as certain types of wood or natural stone tiles that require specialized adhesives. Always check the manufacturer s guidelines to ensure compatibility.
3. **Requires Proper Surface Preparation** Like most high-performance adhesives, the U-705 demands thorough surface preparation, including cleaning, priming, and ensuring the substrate is dry and free of contaminants. Skipping these steps can lead to poor adhesion and premature failure.
4. **Potential for Overuse or Waste** The gallon size is ideal for large projects, but for smaller jobs, purchasing a full pail may result in leftover adhesive that could go unused or expire. Smaller quantities (e.g., quarts or half-gallons) might be more practical for minor repairs or small installations.
5. **Shorter Open Time** Once mixed (if it requires a two-part system) or applied, urethane adhesives like the U-705 may have a limited open time before they begin to set. This requires careful planning and efficient application to avoid waste or uneven coverage.
6. **Environmental and Disposal Considerations** While urethane adhesives are generally lower in VOCs than older solvent-based options, they still contain chemicals that require proper disposal. Improper disposal can be harmful to the environment or pose health risks.
7. **Potential for Yellowing Over Time** Some urethane adhesives can develop a slight yellow tint as they age, which may be noticeable in light-colored flooring or thin sheet goods. This is not typically a structural issue but could be a cosmetic concern for some users.
---
### **Conclusion**
The Excelsior U-705 urethane set flooring adhesive is a high-quality, durable, and versatile option for professional or large-scale flooring installations where moisture resistance, longevity, and strong adhesion are critical. Its performance justifies the higher cost for projects in commercial settings, garages, or areas with high humidity or heavy foot traffic. However, for smaller, budget-sensitive, or DIY projects, the expense and potential for waste may make it less ideal. Additionally, users must ensure proper surface preparation and compatibility with their flooring material to avoid issues.
### **Recommendation**
**Buy the Excelsior U-705 if:**- You are working on a large-scale or commercial flooring project where durability and moisture resistance are non-negotiable.
- Your flooring material (e.g., sheet vinyl, linoleum, or rubber) is compatible with urethane adhesives.
- You have the budget to accommodate the higher upfront cost and can properly store or dispose of any leftover adhesive.
- You prioritize a faster cure time and lower odor compared to traditional solvent-based adhesives.
**Avoid or Consider Alternatives if:**- Your project is small, and you don t need the full gallon quantity (opt for a smaller size or a different adhesive type).
- Your flooring material is sensitive to urethane adhesives (e.g., certain woods or tiles), and you d prefer a specialized adhesive.
- You are working on a tight budget, as cheaper alternatives like water-based or solvent-based adhesives may suffice for low-traffic or residential applications.
- You lack experience with urethane adhesives, as improper application can lead to costly mistakes.
For most professional installers or large residential projects where reliability is key, the U-705 is an excellent choice. For smaller or less demanding projects, weighing the cost against the benefits is essential to determine if it s the right fit.
Excelsior U-705 Urethane Adhesive is a single component wet-set urethane adhesive used for the permanent installation of all resilient and athletic flooring products over porous non-porous substrates. When cured it is water resistant and has high sheer strength the perfect choice for areas with topical moisture, heavy traffic rolling loads both in doors out doors including sunlight not climate controlled; a low odor, non-flammable, solvent-free ready to use product.