United Gilsonite Laboratories (UGL): A Deep Dive into Their Product Lineup
United Gilsonite Laboratories, commonly known as UGL, might not be the first name that springs to mind when you're thinking about high-end automotive coatings or garage organization. However, this company has been quietly providing a range of products for over 85 years, tackling everything from waterproofing basements to enhancing the look of your garage floor. Many DIY enthusiasts and contractors alike have turned to UGL for their reliability and affordability.
So, is UGL the right choice for your next project? This comprehensive review explores the pros and cons of UGL products, helping you make an informed decision before you buy. We'll delve into various product categories, assess their performance, and compare them against competitors.
Product Overview: What Does UGL Offer?
UGL’s product line is surprisingly diverse, catering to a wide range of needs, primarily in home improvement and maintenance. While they might not be exclusively focused on automotive or garage applications, many of their products are perfectly suitable for these purposes. Key product categories include: Waterproofing: Drylok is arguably their most recognizable product, designed to waterproof concrete and masonry surfaces. Paints & Primers: UGL offers a range of interior and exterior paints, as well as primers designed to improve adhesion and durability. Concrete & Masonry Repair: Products designed to patch cracks, resurface concrete, and repair damaged masonry. Wood Care: Stains, sealers, and preservatives to protect and beautify wood surfaces. Cleaners & Degreasers:Various cleaning solutions for different surfaces, including concrete and masonry.
For garage and automotive enthusiasts, the most relevant categories are likely to be the waterproofing solutions (for garage floors), concrete repair products, and potentially some of their paints and primers, especially those designed for concrete.
Drylok: UGL's Flagship Waterproofing Solution
Drylok is UGL's most well-known product, and it's widely used for waterproofing basements and concrete walls. But how does it perform on garage floors, which are also susceptible to moisture and potential water damage?
Pros
Effective Waterproofing: Drylok is highly effective at preventing water from penetrating concrete surfaces. It creates a waterproof barrier that can withstand significant hydrostatic pressure (pressure exerted by a fluid at rest). Easy Application: Application is relatively straightforward, typically involving a brush, roller, or sprayer. Multiple coats are usually required for optimal performance. Affordable: Compared to some specialized epoxy coatings or professional waterproofing services, Drylok is a cost-effective solution. DIY-Friendly: The application process is within the capabilities of most DIYers, requiring minimal specialized equipment.
Cons
Surface Preparation is Crucial: The success of Drylok hinges on proper surface preparation. The concrete must be clean, dry, and free of any loose particles or coatings. Acid etching might be necessary for optimal adhesion. Not as Durable as Epoxy: While Drylok provides excellent waterproofing, it's not as resistant to abrasion, chemicals, or impact as epoxy floor coatings. Heavy traffic, dropped tools, or spilled chemicals can damage the coating over time. Limited Color Options: Drylok's color selection is relatively limited compared to paint or epoxy options. Maintenance Required: Even with proper application, Drylok may require periodic reapplication, especially in high-traffic areas or areas exposed to extreme moisture.
Ideal Use Case: Drylok is a good choice for garage floors where the primary concern is preventing moisture penetration and where heavy wear and tear is not expected. It's particularly suitable for older garages with known moisture issues.
Alternatives: Epoxy floor coatings offer superior durability and resistance to chemicals and abrasion. Concrete sealers provide some level of water resistance, but are less effective than Drylok.
UGL Concrete and Masonry Repair Products
Cracked or damaged concrete can be unsightly and can also lead to more serious structural problems. UGL offers a range of products designed to repair and restore concrete and masonry surfaces.
Types of Products
Concrete Patch: Used to fill cracks and holes in concrete surfaces. Concrete Resurfacer: A thin coating applied to resurface damaged or uneven concrete. Mortar Repair:Designed to repair damaged mortar joints in brick or stone walls.
Pros
Easy to Use: These products are generally easy to apply, requiring minimal specialized tools or skills. Cost-Effective: Compared to hiring a professional contractor to repair concrete, UGL's repair products are a much more affordable option. Variety of Formulas:UGL offers different formulas for different types of repairs, allowing you to choose the product that best suits your needs.
Cons
Durability Varies: The durability of the repair depends on the quality of the product and the thoroughness of the application. Some repairs may not last as long as professional repairs. Color Matching Can Be Difficult: Achieving a perfect color match with existing concrete can be challenging. Surface Preparation is Key:As with Drylok, proper surface preparation is crucial for successful repairs. The area must be clean, dry, and free of loose particles.
Ideal Use Case: UGL concrete repair products are suitable for small to medium-sized repairs, such as filling cracks in garage floors, patching potholes in driveways, or repairing damaged mortar joints.
Alternatives: Professional concrete repair services offer a more durable and long-lasting solution, but at a higher cost. Self-leveling concrete compounds can be used to create a perfectly smooth and level surface.
UGL Paints and Primers: Are They Right for Your Garage?
While UGL isn't primarily known for its paints and primers, they do offer a range of products that can be used in garage and automotive applications. Key considerations are durability, resistance to chemicals, and ease of application.
Types of Products
Latex Paints: General-purpose paints for interior and exterior use. Acrylic Paints: More durable and weather-resistant than latex paints. Concrete Paints: Specifically formulated for use on concrete surfaces. Primers: Used to improve adhesion and block stains.
Pros
Affordable: UGL paints and primers are generally priced competitively compared to other brands. Wide Availability: UGL products are readily available at most home improvement stores. Easy to Apply:Application is straightforward, using standard painting tools.
Cons
Durability May Be Lacking: Compared to specialized garage paints or epoxy coatings, UGL paints may not be as resistant to chemicals, abrasion, or impact. Limited Color Selection: The color selection may be more limited compared to some other brands. May Require Multiple Coats:Depending on the surface and the desired color, multiple coats may be necessary for optimal coverage.
Ideal Use Case: UGL paints and primers can be used for painting garage walls, trim, or doors, but are generally not recommended for garage floors due to their lack of durability.
Alternatives: Epoxy floor coatings are the preferred choice for garage floors due to their superior durability and resistance to chemicals. Specialized garage paints offer better resistance to abrasion and chemicals compared to general-purpose paints.
Comparing UGL to the Competition
| Feature | UGL Products | Competitor A (e.g., Rust-Oleum) | Competitor B (e.g., Quikrete) |
|---|---|---|---|
| ----------------- | ------------------- | ------------------------------- | ----------------------------- |
| Price | Affordable | Mid-Range | Mid-Range |
| Durability | Moderate | Moderate to High | Moderate to High |
| Ease of Use | High | High | Moderate |
| Product Range | Wide | Wide | Specialized (Concrete) |
| Availability | High | High | High |
| Specialized Options | Limited | More Options | More Options |
This table offers a general comparison. Specific product lines within each brand will have varying performance characteristics. It is vital to research and compare individual products before making a purchase. Related: [Garage Floor Coating Options]
Tips for Using UGL Products Effectively
Surface Preparation is Key: Always follow the manufacturer's instructions for surface preparation. This typically involves cleaning, drying, and potentially etching the surface. Apply Multiple Coats: Multiple thin coats are generally better than one thick coat. This will improve adhesion, coverage, and durability. Use the Right Tools: Use the appropriate brushes, rollers, or sprayers for the product you are applying. Follow Drying Times: Allow adequate drying time between coats and before exposing the surface to traffic or moisture. Read the Instructions:Always read and follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully.
FAQ About United Gilsonite Laboratories (UGL)
Is Drylok truly waterproof? Yes, Drylok is highly effective at waterproofing concrete and masonry surfaces when applied correctly. However, it's crucial to address the underlying cause of the moisture problem for long-term success.
Can I use Drylok on a painted surface? No, Drylok should only be applied to bare concrete or masonry surfaces. Existing paint or coatings must be removed before application.
How long does Drylok last? The lifespan of Drylok depends on the conditions it is exposed to. In general, it can last for several years with proper application and maintenance.
Are UGL products environmentally friendly? UGL offers some low-VOC (volatile organic compound) products, but not all of their products are considered environmentally friendly. Check the product label for information on VOC content and environmental certifications.
Where can I buy UGL products? UGL products are widely available at most home improvement stores, hardware stores, and online retailers.
Do UGL products come with a warranty? Yes, many UGL products come with a warranty. The terms of the warranty vary depending on the product. Check the product label or website for warranty information.
Conclusion: Is UGL Right for You?
UGL offers a range of affordable and readily available products for various home improvement and maintenance tasks. While they may not be the top choice for every application, particularly those requiring extreme durability like heavily used garage floors, they provide practical solutions for many common problems.
For waterproofing garage floors and walls, Drylok is a solid option, especially if budget is a concern. UGL's concrete repair products are suitable for DIY repairs of cracks and minor damage. However, for applications requiring exceptional durability or specific performance characteristics, such as a high-gloss, chemical-resistant garage floor, exploring specialized epoxy coatings and paints might be worthwhile.
Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to use UGL products depends on your specific needs, budget, and desired level of performance. Carefully consider the pros and cons of each product before making a purchase, and always follow the manufacturer's instructions for optimal results. Remember that proper surface preparation is the key to success with any coating or repair product.