Oratex over polyfiber

[alexM]

While I consider Polyfiber to be the benchmark by which all other covering systems can be measured, my project came with a big roll of Oratex. A plane expertly covered in the traditional systems is a thing of beauty, and if you're used to looking at museum quality planes the Oratex won't look pretty (up close anyway).

But it's tough material and it is hands down the lightest covering system out there, with a lot less variation from plane to plane (doesn't depend on how many coats of goo the user applies).

Regarding the cost of Oratex, I don't need to buy a spray booth, HVLP setup, respirator, Tyvek suits, etc. I don't even have the space to set up one of those inflatable spray booths, so I would need to rent space somewhere to do it. I think if you're starting from ground zero I don't know that it is more expensive.

Beyond the appearance up close (like reading glasses distance), the detractors of Oratex seem to have experience with the other covering systems and are disappointed when the same techniques don't work.

[tracstarr]

Just want to add a bit extra here. I've only used Oratex so can't compare. That said, Oratex is now coming out with a new paintable product. It's a base layer oratex material with the same easy to apply methods but is designed to be painted. I don't know much more though.

I agree though that currently if you want that "show room floor" perfect look, Oratex won't give you that per say (without a lot of additional pre cover work) - and it's not going to be the same. But, if you want simplicity and don't want to deal with chemicals, painting, renting or making a booth or care too much about that up close perfect paint job - then it's the way to go IMO. But I only have experience watching others with poly.