The use of lightweight cladding materials in the construction of commercial buildings has become increasingly popular over the last twenty years as these buildings are durable, well insulated, attractive and quick and easy to erect.
There is a need to paint such structures for two main reasons:
Appearance
Recent research has shown the increasing significance of colour on commercial buildings. Re-colouring may be needed for a variety of reasons, e.g. to match company livery, for better environmental compatibility or to create a bright, cheerful and relaxing working environment.
Repair
Most cladding is designed to last between 10-20 years before painting is required. It will deteriorate in four distinct phases:
Chalking
The colour will fade and a whitish surface layer will form.
Breakdown
The coating will start to craze and crack.
Exposure
The non-ferrous sub surface will be exposed and will start to corrode.
Failure
The underlying steel itself will be exposed and will begin to rust.
There are two basic types of cladded finish:
Colourcoat HP200
Commonly referred to as Plastisol. It can be immediately recognised by its 'broken leather' plastic finish.
PVF2 : Silicone : Polyester Silicone
Recognised by its hard, smooth 'powder coated' finish.
Cladding should be prepared prior to painting by pressure washing the surface at not less than 1500psi in conjunction with the recommended degreaser.
Ensure the substrate is clean and sound with any edges well feathered.
Please contact us for further advice and information.
