Italian Surface Finishes in UK
Klondike Light — Technical Data Sheet
Key performance data for this metallic wall system: composition, coverage, drying, substrates and maintenance for UK projects where soft metallic shimmer is being specified.
ITALIAN‑MADE VALPAINT SYSTEM · SPECIFIED, TINTED & SUPPORTED BY ITALIAN SURFACE FINISHES IN UK
Key specifications
| Type | Water‑borne metallic decorative coating for interior walls and ceilings. |
|---|---|
| Finish | Subtle, brushed metallic effect with fine directional movement and a low‑glare surface. Designed to feel smooth and contemporary rather than heavily textured. |
| Binder / chemistry | Acrylic dispersion with fine metallic and mineral carriers. Water‑based, low‑VOC formulation suitable for interior environments when used as directed. |
| Coverage* |
Indicative coverage: approx. 6–8 m²/L per coat on smooth, primed substrates. Final coverage depends on substrate smoothness, absorption and technique; always confirm on a sample panel. |
| Drying / recoat |
Touch dry: approx. 2–4 hours @ 20 °C. Recoat: approx. 6–8 hours @ 20 °C. Full cure: approx. 7 days at standard conditions. |
| Application tools | Short‑pile roller for the basecoat; soft synthetic brush or spalter for the effect coats; optional plastic trowel for light compression if a calmer finish is required. |
| Tinting | All Klondike Light colours are tinted in the UK by Italian Surface Finishes using the Valpaint tinting system, helping catalogue boards, sample boards and site deliveries align under UK lighting. |
| Use | Interior walls and ceilings in residential, retail and hospitality settings where a soft, contemporary metallic finish is desired. Not designed for floors or permanently wet areas; for wet zones see Waterproof Artistic Walls. |
*Coverage values are indicative; always verify coverage and appearance via project‑specific sampling.
Compatible substrates
Klondike Light is suitable for sound, stable interior substrates once correctly prepared:
- Plasterboard, skimmed gypsum and interior plaster (fully cured, smooth).
- Interior masonry / cementitious surfaces that are dry, stable and levelled.
- Existing painted walls that are non‑chalky, well‑adhered and correctly primed.
Friable, dusty or highly absorbent areas must be stabilised and primed using the specified primer/fixative from the Klondike Light system sheet to ensure uniform absorption and adhesion before application.
Application summary (technical)
The exact cycle is defined in the official Valpaint TDS. In general a Klondike Light metallic wall system follows:
- Substrate preparation — make good surface defects; fill, sand and clean. Ensure the substrate is smooth, dry and free from contaminants.
- Primer / basecoat — apply the substrate‑specific primer and the recommended tinted Klondike Light basecoat, rolled to a uniform finish. Allow to dry fully.
- First Klondike Light coat — apply a thin coat using a soft brush or spalter in short, irregular strokes. Aim for even coverage without heavy build.
- Second Klondike Light coat — apply a second thin coat. While the product is still workable, feather lightly with long, soft passes of the brush/spalter to unify the shimmer and create the characteristic Klondike Light movement. Work wall‑by‑wall, keeping a wet edge.
- Optional compression — for an even calmer, more minimal effect, gently pass a clean plastic trowel across the surface to settle highlights and reduce any remaining brushmarks.
- Optional protective sealer — in higher‑use areas, apply a compatible clear sealer after full cure to improve washability and resistance to marking.
Drying & curing
- Touch dry: approx. 2–4 hours at 20 °C, normal humidity.
- Recoat interval: approx. 6–8 hours at 20 °C.
- Full cure: approx. 7 days at 20 °C before intensive cleaning or use of protective sealer.
Lower temperatures or higher humidity will extend drying and curing times.
Maintenance
After full cure, Klondike Light can be maintained with gentle cleaning appropriate to high‑quality decorative finishes:
- Dust regularly with a soft cloth or vacuum with a soft brush attachment.
- Where sealed, light marks can be cleaned with a soft damp cloth and mild neutral detergent.
- Avoid abrasive pads, scouring powders, strong alkalis, bleach or solvent‑based cleaners that could scratch or dull the metallic sheen.
Health, safety & environment
- Water‑based, low‑VOC formulation suitable for interior use when applied as directed.
- Ensure good ventilation during application and initial drying.
- Avoid contact with skin and eyes; wear suitable gloves and eye protection.
- Store sealed between +5 °C and +30 °C; protect from frost and direct heat.
- Dispose of residues and empty containers in accordance with local regulations.
- Refer to the official Valpaint Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for full safety information.
Technical & design summary
Klondike Light delivers a refined, contemporary metallic wall finish with feathered movement and soft shimmer. Within the Italian Surface Finishes framework it is the reference system for projects that require subtle, luxurious metallic surfaces without heavy texture.
For project‑specific specifications, sample panels or integration with other systems (e.g. Klondike Classic, Meteore 10 family, Waterproof Artistic Walls), contact Italian Surface Finishes or arrange a visit to the London Studio.
Klondike Light resources
Use these links together when writing Klondike Light into a specification or preparing a project.