Architectural Coatings: What They Are, What They Do, And How They Are Applied

Posted on: 20 May 2019

Architectural coatings sounds like something you use to dip building materials into, and then build with those materials. You would be half right for thinking that. Actually, the coatings are applied in a very different sort of way than what you expect, and they serve a few purposes that you probably thought. Here is more on what these coatings are, what they do, and how they are applied. 

What the Coatings Are

Architectural coatings are designed to be protective barriers, usually against the outdoor elements. However, some coatings, like one used on interior walls over paint to prevent naughty, dirty little fingers from ruining your walls, protect inside instead of out. They should not be confused with paint, lacquer, or varnish, despite what they do. 

What the Coatings Do

There are actually several different coatings. Some protect against water, rain, and moisture. Others protect against crayon, marker, paint, and food stains. Still others will seal decking to prevent rot. It really depends what kind of coating you are looking for in terms of what you need a coating to do. Ask your contractors about coatings when you build something new outside or remodel inside your home or business. 

How the Coatings Are Applied

Coatings are not just applied via spray. You can apply some coatings using a brush or roller, too. In fact, the type of coating dictates just how it will be, and need to be, applied. When a coating is applied over interior paint, for example, you can use a roller just as you would with the paint. However, it can only be applied using a short-pile roller designed for varnishes and other very sticky and thick materials that are applied with this type of roller. Using any other type of roller will not allow the coating to apply evenly to the walls, and subsequently would need to be redone and reapplied to get it right. 

Why You Should Consider Such Coatings

Paint may say that it is stain-proof, but it will come off on your scrubber when you are trying to remove something like ketchup or spaghetti sauce. With a coating over the top, those tough stains just glide off onto your rag or sponge. The coatings do cost a little extra, but what you pay for the coating now more than makes up for the second, third, and/or fourth repainting or touch-up painting. Outdoor coatings protect against all types of weather and prevent dry and wet rot. 

To learn more, talk to companies like Top Gun Powder Coating.

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