Resources

Common Questions

Coil Questions

Browse our most frequently asked questions about Valspar's Coil Products.
1. What colors are available?
Just about any color you can imagine.

We have formulated more than 60,000 different colors. Many colors are available in ENERGY STAR, LEED, and title 24 formulations. Click HERE to browse our color gallery.

2. How can I request a specific color sample on a metal substrate?

You can request a color sample online by clicking HERE or call us at 1-888-306-2645.

3. How can I find the RGB values of standard Valspar colors?

Find a reputable graphics or graphics design provider that has a color correct computer system. They can provide true RGB values. Please note that colors appear differently on different electronic devices such as copiers, printers, scanners, etc.

4. How do I request literature?

Click HERE or contact one of our customer service representatives at 1-888-306-2645.

5. Can I buy coil paint products directly from Valspar?

Valspar sells coil and extrusion coatings to approved applicators. Our approved applicators have the expertise and the equipment to properly apply the coatings.

For a listing of protective coil coating applicators, click HERE or contact a Valspar Representative at kbright@valspar.com or call us toll free at 1-888-306-2645.

6. How do I specify a Valspar product?

To specify a Valspar product, refer to the "To Specify" section at the bottom of the product data sheet. Product data sheets can be find on individual product pages.  

7. How do I obtain MSDS and letters of certification?

From the home page of Valsparcoilextrusion.com, log onto MyAccount. If you do not have a login, click on register and follow instructions.

8. How do I clean and maintain Valspar's fluoropolymer coated surfaces?

The molecules on the surface of Valspar's fluoropolymer coating systems are so tightly bound together that they don't want to react with anything. Their slick surface helps make them resistant to many elements found in the environment such as air pollution, acid rain, and general airborne dirt. Although Valspar factory-applied finishes are extremely durable, a periodic cleaning to remove build-ups of resins and other residue is a good idea to extend coating life. A variety of methods for removal of surface deposits are available. Simple washing with plain water using hoses or pressure spray equipment is usually adequate. When heavy deposits of dirt or other contaminants dull surfaces, stronger methods may be needed.

See PDF below for detailed cleaning and maintenance instructions for fluoropolymer coatings.

9. How do I clean and maintain Valspar's silicone polyester coated surfaces?

Valspar's silicone polyester coatings are resistant to many elements found in the environment such as air pollution, acid rain, and general airborne dirt. However, if the need to clean or remove deposits from your coating does arise, a variety of methods for removal of surface deposits are available. Two precautions: (1) do not use wire, brushes, abrasives, or similar cleaning tools which will mechanically abrade the coatings surface, and (2) certain cleaning agents listed below should be tested in an inconspicuous area before use on a large scale.

See PDF below for detailed cleaning and maintenance instructions for silicone polyester coatings.

10. How do I clean and maintain Valspar polyester coatings?

Polyester coatings are resistant to many elements found in the environment such as air pollution, acid rain, and general airborne dirt. However, if the need to clean or remove deposits from your coating does arise, a variety of methods for removal of surface deposits are available. Two precautions: (1) do not use wire brushes, abrasive, or similar cleaning tools which will mechanically abrade the coatings surface, and (2) certain cleaning agents listed below should be tested in an inconspicuous area before use on a large scale.

See PDF below for detailed cleaning and maintenance instructions for polyester coatings.

11. Why do we often see lines in color match panels and not on the coated building panel?

The small parallel lines seen on lab prepared panels are the result of the application method used in the laboratory. To achieve a uniform thickness of coating in the laboratory, wire wrapped around metal rods is used to apply the coating. The amount of coating applied is controlled by the diameter of the wire used. The wire wound rods apply a wavy film that results in small parallel lines when the coating is drawn down the panel.

12. Do you have a recommended procedure for recoating coil?

Valspar does not encourage re-coating; however, we realize that it is sometimes necessary. If re-coating is required, Valspar recommends the following procedure:

  • Strip should be run through the up to temperature cleaning section.
  • Apply tie-coat KXC0073 at a DFT of 0.1 to 0.15 mils; PMT should be between 450°F and 465°F.
  • Apply a full film thickness of Fluropon® or WeatherX® coating to the top of the coil at the recommended DFT on the Technical Data Sheet (TDS). Be certain to use Fluropon® over Fluropon and WeatherX over WeatherX coatings.
  • Check all physical tests required by the Product Data Sheet (PDS) along with crosshatch impact on line.
  • Valspar also recommends that along with the on line physical testing that a crosshatch boiling water test be performed. Reverse impacted/crosshatch panel should be placed in boiling water for a minimum of fifteen (15) minutes, then test to check for intercoat adhesion.

It is Valspar's position to not be responsible for field claims resulting from re-coated coils.

13. What are mica and metallic paint systems and how are they best used?

Valspar offers several finishes with a metallic or pearlescent appearance in our extrusion and coil coating product lines. Fluropon Classic® and Fluropon Classic® II are available in both spray and coil formulations. Acrodize® coatings are available only in spray formulations.

When a sparkle effect is desired, we recommend using the newer, mica flake formulation technology due its many advantages. Although similar in appearance, pearlescent coatings are formulated with mica flakes while metallic coatings are formulated with metal flakes.

Mica flakes offer better color consistency and it is easier to work with them. They minimize "tiger striping" and the "flop-of-flake" effect in spray application. This phenomenon can make the color appear different from panel to panel. The mica flakes found in Fluropon Classic II will not pick up an electrostatic charge or follow the back and forth movements of electrostatic application equipment like metal flakes will.

Click on the link below to view the entire document and learn about mica and metallic paint systems.

Extrusion Questions

Browse our most frequently asked questions about Valspar's Extrusion Products.
1. What colors are available?
Just about any color you can imagine.

We have formulated more than 60,000 different colors. Many colors are available in ENERGY STAR, LEED, and title 24 formulations. Click HERE to browse our Color gallery.

2. How can I request a specific color sample on a metal substrate?

You can request a color sample online by clicking HERE or call us at 1-888-306-2645.

3. How can I find the RGB values of standard Valspar colors?

Find a reputable graphics or graphics design provider that has a color correct computer system. They can provide true RGB values. Please note that colors appear differently on different electronic devices such as copiers, printers, scanners, etc.

4. How do I request literature?

Simply click HERE and to browse and request literature.

5. Can I buy extrusion paint products directly from Valspar?

Valspar sells coil and extrusion coatings to approved applicators. Our approved applicators have the expertise and the equipment to properly apply the coatings.

6. How can I find an approved applicator?

To find an approved applicator, please visit our approved applicators page or call one of our friendly customer service representatives at 1-866-351-6900.

7. How does a company become an approved applicator?

This qualification is based on periodic visits to their facility by Valspar technical personnel and on periodic submittals of production panels for verification that the finished products continue to meet the specification requirements. If you are interested in becoming an approved applicator, let us know by sending an email to extrusionhelp@valspar.com.

8. How do I specify a Valspar product?

To specify a Valspar product, refer to the "To Specify" section at the bottom of the product data sheet. You can find the product data sheets on each product page.

9. How do I obtain MSDS and letters of certification?

From the homepage of Valsparcoilextrusion.com, log onto MyAccount. If you do not have a login, click on register and follow the instructions.

10. How do I clean and maintain Valspar's acrylic coated surfaces?

Flurocryl® coatings by Valspar are inert coating systems. The surface of this system has excellent resistance to many elements found in the environment such as air pollution, acid rain, and general airborne dirt. Proper cleaning and maintenance of this Flurocryl system is important to ensure that it continues to provide a beautiful, long lasting finish.

When the need arises to clean deposits from the Flurocryl coating, a variety of methods are available. In cleaning this system three precautions should be observed: 1) do not use abrasives (i.e., Comet cleanser), wire brushes, or similar cleaners or tools which mechanically abrade the surface, 2) prior to utilizing a household, commercial or industrial cleaning agent, the list of ingredients must be reviewed to ensure that the cleaner is free from the solvents discussed below, and 3) any cleaning agent should be tested in an isolated area before using on a large scale.

11. How do I clean and maintain Valspar's fluoropolymer coated surfaces?

The molecules on the surface of Valspar's fluoropolymer coating systems are so tightly bound together that they don't want to react with anything. Their slick surface helps make them resistant to many elements found in the environment such as air pollution, acid rain, and general airborne dirt.

Although Valspar factory-applied finishes are extremely durable, a periodic cleaning to remove build-ups of resins and other residue is a good idea to extend coating life. A variety of methods for removal of surface deposits are available. Simple washing with plain water using hoses or pressure spray equipment is usually adequate. When heavy deposits of dirt or other contaminants dull surfaces, stronger methods may be needed.

See PDF below for detailed cleaning and maintenance instructions for fluoropolymer coatings.

12. How do I clean and maintain Valspar polyester coatings?

Polyester coatings are resistant to many elements found in the environment such as air pollution, acid rain, and general airborne dirt. However, if the need to clean or remove deposits from your coating does arise, a variety of methods for removal of surface deposits are available. Two precautions: (1) do not use wire brushes, abrasive, or similar cleaning tools which will mechanically abrade the coatings surface, and (2) certain cleaning agents listed below should be tested in an inconspicuous area before use on a large scale.

See PDF below for detailed cleaning and maintenance instructions for polyester coatings.

13. Can you explain your spray code system?

Click PDF below for Valspar's Spray Code Numbering System Reference Guide.

14. What are mica and metallic paint systems and how are they best used?

Valspar offers several finishes with a metallic or pearlescent appearance in our extrusion and coil coating product lines. Fluropon Classic® and Fluropon Classic® II are available in both spray and coil formulations. Acrodize® coatings are available only in spray formulations.

When a sparkle effect is desired, we recommend using the newer, mica flake formulation technology due its many advantages. Although similar in appearance, pearlescent coatings are formulated with mica flakes while metallic coatings are formulated with metal flakes.

Mica flakes offer better color consistency and it is easier to work with them. They minimize "tiger striping" and the "flop-of-flake" effect in spray application. This phenomenon can make the color appear different from panel to panel. The mica flakes found in Fluropon Classic II will not pick up an electrostatic charge or follow the back and forth movements of electrostatic application equipment like metal flakes will.

Click PDF below to learn more about Valspar's Mica and Metallic Paint Systems.

Green Building Questions

Browse our most frequently asked questions when it comes to Valspar's Green Coil and Extrusion products.
1. Does Valspar have any coil or extrusion coatings for "Green Design" projects that require Energy Star, LEED, or title 24 products?

Yes, Valspar Solar Reflective coatings are available from leading metal building component manufacturers. Architects that want these products for their projects should specify one of Valspar's factory-applied, baked-on solar reflective coatings.

2. What incentives are offered to home builders for energy efficient improvement?

The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 signed on February 17 by President Obama extends the timeframe for US Federal tax credits for homebuilders through 2010. The other credit guidelines originally established by the Energy Policy Act of 2005 for new home construction remain the same. Guidelines for the credit are listed below. $2000 Credit Guidelines.

  1. Home builders are eligible for a $2000 tax credit when they build a new energy efficient dwelling that achieves 50% energy savings for heating and cooling over the 2004 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) and supplements.
  2. At least 1/5 of the energy savings must come from building envelope improvements.
  3. The credit also applies to contractors of manufactured homes conforming to Federal Manufactured Home Construction and Safety Standards.
  4. For 2008 taxes, eligible contractors need to fill out IRS Form 8908.
3. Is my color selection limited if I choose a Valspar SR (Solar Reflective) coating?

A wide variety of colors including greens, reds, dark browns, and black are available in SR coating formulations.

4. How much energy can be saved using Valspar Solar Reflective Coatings?

Due to the varying size of buildings and their locations, as well as varying cooling units, an exact number is not possible. However, studies as done by Florida Power and Light validate the savings. Florida Power and Light built six identical 1700 ft2 residences in Ft.Myers, Florida. They found the prepainted metal roof saved 23% in energy costs compared to asphalt shingles.

5. Does climate affect the impact of typical energy use reduction?

Yes. Valspar Solar Reflective Coatings are best suited for warm to hot climates.

6. What is the life expectancy of a Valspar SR coating?

Valspar SR coatings will last for the same length of time as the original formulas.

7. How much does the solar reflectance value, emissivity, or SRI value of SR coatings change over time?

Very little change in both solar reflectivity value and emissivity value is expected. This information is based on data gathered from coating samples that have been on Valspar's test fence in Ft. Myers, Florida for more than ten years.

8. How is solar reflectivity measured?

Ultraviolet, visual and infrared spectra are the components of natural sunlight. A compilation of these components is measured using a solar spectrum reflectometer in accordance to ASTM E 903/ C 1549. The closer the value is to 1.0, the more efficiently the surface reflects heat.

9. How is emissivity measured?

Emissivity is measured using an emissometer. The emissometer is operated in accordance to ASTM E 408/C 1371. It uses a heated thermopile radiation detector.

10. What are the solar reflective and emissivity values of Valspar coatings with an SR designation?

The solar reflective values of Valspar SR coatings range from 0.25 up to 0.85. Coatings with metallic or pearlescent effects generally have slightly lower emissivity values.

11. How does the emissivity value of prepainted metal building components compare with other bare metal components?

Bare metal will have a lower emissivity than prepainted metal. Prepainted metals generally fall in the 0.80 to 0.90 emissivity range, while bare metals are typically less than 0.10 emissivity.

12. Are metal building components composed of recycled material?

Yes. Steel's recycling rate is about 2/3 according to the American Iron and Steel Institute. About 1/3 of the aluminum used in the US comes from recycled material according to the US Aluminum Association.

13. What is the urban heat island effect and can Valspar SR coatings offer a solution?

The urban heat island effect refers to the rise of temperatures in urban areas relative to the surrounding rural or natural areas due to the high concentration of heat-absorbing surfaces. Valspar SR coatings reduce this effect by deflecting more of the sun's rays so that the buildings will not absorb as much energy resulting in lower energy consumption iin urban areas.

14. What is the VOC (Volatile Organic Compound) emission of Valspar SR coatings?

Although Valspar manufactures solvent-based coatings, the factory application process allows our coaters to capture and destroy the VOCs before they escape into the atmosphere.

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