Designer Metals Finishes--FAQ

andrewfei

McNICHOLS® Designer Metals Finishes
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do McNICHOLS® Designer Metals Finishes differ from regular powder
coating products?
A: Unlike standard powder coating, McNICHOLS® Designer Metals Finishes require a
two-step powder coating process. The first step is the application of a base coat, much like with
standard powder coating. The second step adds the design to the base through a process of dyesublimation.
McNICHOLS® Designer Metals Finishes simulate wood grain, granite,
marble, travertine, and decorative patterns on metal.
Q: What are the benefits of using McNICHOLS® Designer Metals Finishes?
A: McNICHOLS® Designer Metals Finishes provide the benefits of metal: strength,
durability, low maintenance, environmentally friendly, fire resistant and the ability to provide
solid sheets or a variety of perforated patterns for aesthetic and physical requirements.
Q: Are McNICHOLS® Designer Metals Finishes designed for interior or
exterior use?
A: All finishes are suitable for interior applications. Wood grain finishes are also exterior
friendly and meet AAMA 2603 corrosion and weathering resistance requirements (except
Burlwood finish).
Q: Can fabrication and processing be done to the material after it has been coated
without damaging the finish?
A: Yes, for many fabrication processes. Care needs to be taken to reduce scratching, especially
from machinery such as press breaks. If the material is cut after it has been coated, the metal
edge will not be coated. High heat processes such as welding or laser cutting will damage the
powder coating.
Q: What metals may be used for McNICHOLS® Designer Metals Finishes?
A: Aluminum, Plain Steel, and Stainless Steel can be coated. Slight variations in finish shades
may occur due to the type of metal used. McNICHOLS® Designer Metals Finishes are
primarily for flat sheets - Perforated Metal, Lancet™ Ribbon Mesh, and Solid Sheets.
Q: What are the size limitations for the metal sheets using McNICHOLS®
Designer Metals Finishes?
A: Sheet dimensions can go up to 46 in. x 15 ft.
Q: Are additional coatings required for any of the materials used?
A: No additional coatings are required. However, for exterior Plain Steel applications a
protective base coating is recommended on both sides of the material. If desired,
McNICHOLS® Designer Metals Finishes may be special ordered with an anti-microbial
option. Please allow additional lead time. Your Architectural Design Consultant can assist with
further details.

McNICHOLS® Designer Metals Finishes
Frequently Asked Questions (Continued)
Q: Can fabrication and processing be done to the material after it has been coated
without damaging the finish?
A: Yes, for many fabrication processes. Care needs to be taken to reduce scratching, especially
from machinery such as press breaks. If the material is cut after it has been coated, the metal
edge will not be coated. High heat processes such as welding or laser cutting will damage the
powder coating.
Q: Is there a minimum order requirement?
A: Yes, the minimum order is $375.
Q: Are there color variations?
A: Yes, slight variations in color may occur due to the type of metal used. Finish colors may vary
from illustrations as well. Please call your Architectural Design Consultants for a sample.
Q: Is there a possibility that there will be over spray on the back of the material?
A: Yes, as with any other powder coating process, over spray is possible on the back side of the
material.
Q: Will McNICHOLS® Designer Metals Finishes patterns be on one side of the
material or both?
A: Patterns are available on a single side (standard) or both sides; please specify.
Q: Can two different patterns be put on the same side of the material?
A: No.
Q: Is the finish surface smooth?
A: A smooth surface is standard. Wood grain finishes may also be produced with a “textured”
surface (except Bleached Oak, Bleached Tupelo or Burlwood).
Q: Do finish patterns repeat on the metal?
A: Yes, finishes have repeating directional patterns. Please consult your Architectural Design
Consultant for more information if pattern is critical.
Q: How are these finishes maintained?
A: These finishes can be cleaned with simple, non-abrasive household cleaners.

andrewfei

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