The right system will not work
unless it is applied correctly.
Most coating failures stem not from the product but from the application. This guide brings together the six topics most frequently asked about on site: surface preparation, ambient conditions, mixing, application, film thickness and curing.
This page summarises general application rules. Mixing ratio, waiting times and film thicknesses vary by product; the product's own technical data sheet (TDS) is authoritative. Write to our technical team to request data sheets.
This is the sequence on site.
Surface preparation
The most decisive step for coating life. Oil and dirt are first removed with solvent/detergent; then abrasive blasting is carried out. No paint is applied until the cleanliness grade required by the system (usually Sa 2½) is achieved.
Ambient conditions
Air and surface are measured at the time of application. If the dew point rule is breached, an invisible moisture film forms on the surface and loss of adhesion is inevitable.
Mixing and induction
In 2K products, the base and hardener are mixed in the ratio stated in the data sheet. Mixing by eye leads to incomplete curing and a soft film.
Application method
Airless spraying is the standard method for large surfaces. Brush and roller are used for touch-ups and inaccessible areas; the same thickness cannot be achieved in a single pass.
Film thickness
The system works through thickness. Wet film is measured during application, dry film after curing. Insufficient thickness shortens the protection period; excessive thickness causes cracking and sagging.
Curing and overcoating intervals
Each coat has its own drying time and overcoating interval. Overcoating too early leads to solvent entrapment; overcoating too late leads to adhesion problems.
Common defects and their causes.
The first places to look when you encounter a coating failure. If in doubt, request a site inspection report; our team will inspect on site and identify the cause.
Loss of adhesion / peeling
Inadequate surface preparation, oil or salt residues, or the dew point rule has been breached.
Sagging (runs)
Too much material in a single pass, wrong tip selection or excessive thinning.
Orange peel
Wrong pressure/tip, unsuitable viscosity or incorrect spray distance.
Wrinkling
Topcoat applied before the undercoat had fully dried; solvent trapped underneath.
Pinholes
Application to a hot surface or escape of trapped air.
Colour / gloss variation
Different batches not blended, or uneven film thickness.
The product's own data sheet is authoritative
The mixing ratio, waiting times and target film thickness of the product you use are stated in its technical data sheet. We can send the data sheets you need on the same day.
