International. Although white has been a pillar color in most industries served by prepainted metal, silver and other metallic colors are beginning to work their way into dominant applications, according to the National Coil Coating Association (NCCA).
As consumers continue to look for cost-effective ways to make products appear higher quality and manufacturers compete to differentiate their products, pre-painted metal has earned a space.
The association explains that with today's trends, new metal facades of buildings are likely to be silver, or bronze, or copper. The same goes for appliances, such as heaters that used to be shaded dark gray or gray. And the washer and dryer were definitely white. But consumers want more color choices and a greater degree of flexibility in finding the appliances to the home décor.
The study highlights that metallic-looking coatings, which often contain mica or aluminum flakes, impart a reflective property that at first glance has greater depth than the conventional plain white finish. These flake pigments impart shine to the surface layer creating a totally new and different appearance in household appliances, metal roofs, pontoon boats, mobile homes and much more.
Apart from aesthetics, there are practical benefits to expanding the use of metal coatings in the pre-painting scenario. These can be applied in steel or aluminum very cost-effectively. And they provide the same protection and longevity of the product as any other painting product.
No matter the application, the demands on prepainted metals are extremely rigorous. The finish is required to maintain its appearance throughout the life of the product by being able to withstand discoloration, corrosion, chemical attacks, dirt retention, high temperatures, various extreme weather conditions, and daily wear.
