The following information is presented only as a guide. Users are cautioned to pre-test paints and application procedures to determine suitability.
TRANSLUCENT PANELS - The main purpose in painting translucent panels is to affect solar transmissivity, reducing brightness and/or solar heat gain. Where the main concern is restoration of weathered surfaces, the use of a refinisher is recommended such as Surfacing Lacquer, Product #837-X1, manufactured by Valspar Corporation. In painting translucent fiberglass panels, it is important to bear in mind that uneven paint application will produce a streaked, blotchy appearance.OPAQUE PANELS – As with any opaque surface, painting must be complete and even to assure uniform appearance.
PAINTING NEW PANELS – Fiberglass panels have clean, hard, glossy surfaces, which can accept most common types of paints without prior preparation. However, when paint manufacturers recommend use of a primer, those instructions should be followed. Unlike some molded plastic parts, fiberglass panels do not have mold release agents on their surfaces. Their glossy appearance is achieved by another method (release film), which leaves no residue.
PAINTING WEATHERED PANELS – Prior to painting, all exposed glass fibers and embedded dirt must be removed, using water and non-corrosive cleaning compounds, applied with a stiff bristle brush or steel wool. Rinse panels thoroughly and allow to completely dry. Follow with application of paint or refinisher to seal panel surface.
APPLICATION METHODS – Depending on the type of paint to be used, any of the common paint application methods will yield good results. Paint sprayers, rollers and brushes have all been used successfully. Spraying is often the most efficient method and typically provides a more uniform coating.
SUGGESTED TYPES OF PAINTS – Acrylic latex-based and vinyl latex-based paints are widely available and both adhere well to fiberglass panels. Where longer service life is required and additional costs are justified, acrylic-modified polyurethane coatings should be considered.
SPECIAL SITUATIONS – Fiberglass panels with a chemically bonded surface of DuPont’s Tedlar® polyvinyl fluoride require special paints to assure bondability. For additional information, refer to “Sign Panels Fabricating Handbook and Technical Manual”, section 5(e), published by Reinforced Plastics/Composites Institute Panel Council, Society of the Plastics Industry, Inc., 355 Lexington Ave., NY, NY 10017.
PAINTING AND FLAMMABILITY (FLAMESPREAD) RATINGS – Fiberglass fire-retardant panels, when used to meet flammability and/or flamespread ratings required by building codes, especially in interior finish applications, may undergo a change in those ratings when one or more coats of paint are applied. Users should consult regulatory authorities in such situations.
Failure to comply with the recommended painting procedures will void the panel warranty.
