Palram PALFOA - Manual (Page 7)

Fabrication Guide
6
Painting
The painting of PALIGHT is easily accomplished with paints known to have compatibility with rigid PVC.
Selection of a paint system for each use should be guided by the following:
1. Cost effectiveness
2. Ease of application.
3. Safety and Environmental — odor, solvent systems, toxicity, etc.
4. Convenience and speed — one part vs. two part, one coat vs. multiple coats.
5. Solvent and/or chemical resistance.
6. Outdoor weatherability & reflectance value.
(When painting PALIGHT with darker colors, for use in exterior applications, it is imperative that the paint has a light reflectance value of
55 or higher in order to avoid excessive heat absorbtion, which will result in distortion of the PALIGHT.)
I. Types of paints known compatible with PALIGHT sheet
A. Vinyls
B. Acrylic Lacquers
C. Two part polyurethanes
With PALIGHT, water-based latex systems and oil-based enamels generally do not have the good adherence properties of solvent based
systems. Although, the use of primers can improve the adherence of non-solvent based systems, the adherence is usually minimal.
II. Surface Preparation
A. The surface to be painted must remain dry, clean, and grease free.
B. Any surface scratches on PALIGHT will have a tendency to telegraph through the paint. In order to remove small scratches or
dents, rapidly fan a heat gun over the affected area. Care must be taken not to leave the hot air in one place for too long, as the
surface can be disformed.
C. It is highly recommended that the surface be cleaned with a rag moistened with isopropyl alcohol prior to painting.
III. Adhesion Test
A. The paint system chosen should always be tested for adequate adhesion. To test for adhesion, conduct the Cross Hatch Test after
the paint has dried for at least 24 hours.
1. Make eleven parallel cuts 1/16” apart with a razor blade knife. Make eleven similar cuts at 90 degrees to cross the first set.
2. Across the scored area apply a strip of strong tape, such as #610 Scotch tape. Press firmly.
3. Immediately remove the tape by pulling it back upon itself at 180 degrees in one rapid motion.
4. There shall be no removal of the paint squares to obtain a good adhesion rating.
IV. Application
A. Paints can usually be applied with a brush or roller, although conventional air spray equipment will provide a more consistent
appearance.
B. Consult paint manufacturer’s literature for recommended application technique and thinning requirements.
V. Drying
PALIGHT is a thermoplastic material. It should not be dried at temperatures in excess of 150° F. For drying and cure times, consult
paint manufacturer’s literature.
CAUTION: Due to the wide variety of paint products on the market, and the fact that some paints have been known to embrittle or
bow PALIGHT, testing is recommended for the initial use of any coating system before commercialization.