What You Need To Know About PVDF Coatings For Architectural Aluminium
March 11, 2023
There are many coatings that can be applied to aluminium to achieve several beneficial effects, including enhancing durability and improving visual appeal. However, before you decide what kind of coating you want your aluminium to have, one of the most common for architectural and low maintenance coatings is PVDF.
What exactly is a PVDF coating? How is it applied? Why should you choose this coating over other alternatives?
Read on to learn even more about this type of coating and why it may be perfect for your building’s facade.
What Are PVDF Coatings?
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PVDF coatings, or polyvinylidene fluoride coatings, are resin-based coatings that can be applied to aluminium. It is part of the Fluorocarbon family of plastics, which forms bonds that are extremely chemically and thermally stable. It has many practical and visual advantages that can make your architectural aluminium more functional and aesthetically pleasing. It is commonly used for commercial buildings and residential dwellings.
PVDF coatings are often applied using a spray gun in the following steps:
1. The Aluminium Surface Is Prepared. Before any coating is applied, the aluminium must be prepared. This means it should be cleaned and degreased, and any rust should be removed. If the aluminium is dirty or not prepared properly, the coating may not hold as it should and it might not have the desired effects. Certain high-quality PVDF coatings also need a chrome-based conversion coating to be put on the aluminium before a primer is applied.
- A Primer Is Applied. Next, a primer is used on the aluminium to stabilise it and prepare it for the PVDF coating.
- The Top Coat Is Applied. The top coat is applied to the aluminium. This top coat can include colour particles to improve the aesthetic appeal of the aluminium. This coating, which is the thickest coating in this process, provides damage and abrasion resistance. This top coat must be adequately cured after it’s applied. Once it is, the next step can commence.
- The Clear Coating Is Applied. In most coating processes, the final step is to apply the clear coating to the aluminium. This clear coat gives the metal an extra layer of defence from the outside elements while letting the top coat’s colour show through. This clear coat, in addition to providing more protection to the material itself, also protects the colour and prevents it from easily coming off.
Why Should I Choose PVDF Coated Aluminium For My Building’s Facade?
You may be asking, ‘why should I choose PVDF-coated aluminium over other alternatives?’ You should know that this coating provides your aluminium, and thus your facade, with many fantastic benefits.
These include:
- It’s More Environmentally Friendly. PVDF coatings are considered more eco-friendly than many other alternatives because they do not contain volatile organic compounds. If you’re concerned about your environmental impact, this may be the right choice for you.
- It Offers Sunlight Resistance. Too much New Zealand UV rays can cause certain coatings to become faded or damaged. PVDF coating is resistant to UV rays and keeps your aluminium looking brand new for many years.
- It Offers Damage Resistance. PVDF coatings offer damage resistance to a wide variety of factors. These coatings can protect against weather, general wear, abrasion, corrosion and more. Overall, this extra protection can help your aluminium facade stay appealing for much longer.
- It Requires Minimal Maintenance. Along with being long-lasting, PVDF-coated aluminium requires very minimal maintenance. So, you can enjoy its benefits without worrying about complex and continual washing and care.
What’s The Difference Between PVDF And Powder Coatings?
Another option you can choose is powder-coated aluminium, which is different from PVDF coatings in a few ways. You should know that PVDF coatings are different from powder coatings in these ways:
- PVDF Coatings Use Fluid Paint, Powder Coatings Use Powder.
- PVDF Coatings Are Thinner.
- PVDF Coatings Can Be Cured At Room Temperature, Rather Than Being Baked.
- PVDF Coatings Are Sunlight Resistant And Will Not Fade Over Time.
- PVDF Coatings Are More Expensive When Compared To Typical Powder Coatings.
Overall, if you want a coating that’ll provide you with high durability and beautiful colours and are willing to pay a bit more for great quality, PVDF coatings may be the perfect choice for you.
Where Can I Learn More About My Architectural Aluminium Options In New Zealand?
The type of aluminium you choose for your building’s facade is an important choice because it’ll affect the visual appeal of your facade while strongly affecting how durable and long-lasting it is. At Paneltec, we’re here to help you make the best choice possible.
We have a great range of products that you can browse through. We know that every building is unique, and we’d love to help you find the perfect product for yours.
Would you like to know more about your options? Call us at 09 439 4357 or visit our contact page to get in touch with our team.
Ensure your building’s facade is strong, long-lasting and very beautiful with us at Paneltec.
