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FAQs — Valmetal | Decorative Metallic Wall Coating UK


FAQs — Valmetal | Brushed & Leafed Metallic Wall Finish (UK)
What is Valmetal?

Valmetal is an Italian decorative metallic wall coating from Valpaint that recreates the aesthetic of brushed, burnished, or leafed metal sheet directly on the wall. It delivers true architectural metal realism — steel, brass, bronze, copper, gold or platinum — without the cost or weight of panels. Distributed in the UK by Italian Surface Finishes London.

Where is Valmetal used in UK projects?

In luxury residential, retail, hospitality and gallery spaces requiring a strong metallic statement. It’s ideal for feature walls, reception desks, stair cores, and bar backdrops where light and shadow sculpt the surface.

Why do architects choose Valmetal over metallic paint?

Unlike simple metallic paints, Valmetal forms a dense mineral-metallic body that can be mechanically polished to reveal a genuine brushed or burnished grain. It behaves like real metal in light, not like reflective pigment on paint.

What is the correct system build?

Fissativo Acrilico 30G (primer)Valmetal (2–3 coats)mechanical polishing after the final coat cures (~36 h). This sequence ensures adhesion, depth, and polishable hardness.

Why is Fissativo Acrilico 30G necessary?

It consolidates and equalises surface absorption so that Valmetal applies uniformly and develops an even metallic grain during polishing.

Can Valmetal be applied on existing painted walls?

Yes — remove weak paint, fill defects, degrease, then prime with 30G before coating. Always run a small adhesion test panel before full application.

Which tools are required?

Stainless-steel trowels or spatulas for coating, soft rollers or brushes for primer, and a rotary or dual-action polisher (with dust extraction) for the finishing step. The polish defines Valmetal’s authentic brushed grain.

What finishes can be achieved?

Brushed metal — linear strokes for a modern, machined look.
Burnished or hammered — irregular reflections for vintage patina.
Stencilled — logos or motifs applied through templates.
Leafed — layered metallic gleam using multiple tones.

What are the available shades?

Steel, Platinum, Bronze, Brass, Copper, Gold, and Antique Gold — all mixed using the Valpaint COLORI’ / VALCLONE system for precise repeatability. Custom blends can be ordered through Italian Surface Finishes London.

What is the coverage and drying schedule?

Yield varies by technique. Expect a mid-range decorative coating consumption; confirm by mock-up. Touch-dry ≈ 2 h · Recoat ≈ 5–6 h · Mechanical polish after ≈ 36 h @ 20 °C. Full curing and final hardness develop over 7–10 days.

How is the final polishing done?

Once dry, use a rotary polisher in circular motion to smooth micro-ridges and align metallic flakes. This reveals Valmetal’s signature hand-brushed metal sheen that reads like panelled steel or bronze.

Can I top-coat Valmetal for extra protection?

Normally no — clear coats reduce metallic clarity. Where higher abrasion resistance is required, test a discreet protective first on a sample panel to verify sheen retention.

How does Valmetal compare to Klondike or Meteore 8?

Valmetal = authentic metal-panel realism. Klondike Classic / Light = metallic shimmer paints with texture variation. Meteore 8 Lamé = lime-based mineral body with pearly overlay. Each suits different design intent — metal precision, shimmer expression, or mineral subtlety.

Can Valmetal be combined with other finishes?

Yes — pair Valmetal feature panels with Meteore 10 Cemento or Klondike Ferro for industrial contrast, or use it alongside Valsetin 2 silk for metallic vs. textile balance.

Is Valmetal interior or exterior?

Interior only. It’s a decorative system not formulated for exterior exposure or wet rooms. For outdoor or waterproof finishes, specify Valpaint Corten or E-VOLUTION PLUS instead.

Is Valmetal low-VOC and safe for interiors?

Yes — water-based, low-VOC, compliant with A+ indoor-air classifications. Always ventilate during application and polish dust extraction.

How does lighting influence Valmetal?

Directional lighting enhances grain direction and metal depth. Under warm light, copper and bronze tones intensify; under cool light, steel and platinum tones appear sharper. Always review mock-ups under project lighting.

Is Valmetal eco-friendly?

Yes — water-based formulation, formaldehyde-free, and packaged in recyclable containers. Manufactured in Italy under Valpaint’s ISO 14001 environmental standards.

How should I maintain Valmetal surfaces?

Dust with a soft cloth. For light cleaning, use a slightly damp cloth with mild detergent. Avoid abrasives, solvents, or steam cleaning which can dull the finish.

Can I stencil logos or graphics with Valmetal?

Yes — apply stencils during the second or third coat. Remove while wet for crisp edges, allow to cure, then polish the entire area for uniform sheen.

Where can I view or buy Valmetal in the UK?

Exclusively through Italian Surface Finishes — the authorised Valpaint UK distributor. Visit the Valpaint London Showroom & Academy for full-size sample panels, colour cards, and applicator training.

Is professional training available?

Yes — the Valpaint London Academy provides certified training on Valmetal and the wider metallic systems (Klondike, Corten, Ferro). Applicators receive ISF Valpaint Certification recognised across the UK trade.

One-line technical specification

Primer 30G → Valmetal (2–3 coats) → mechanical polish after 36 h | Interior decorative metallic wall finish | Low VOC | Crafted in Italy, distributed by Italian Surface Finishes London.