Italian Surface Finishes in UK
Valmetal — Technical Data Sheet
Key performance data for this metallic decorative coating system: composition, coverage, drying, substrates and maintenance for UK projects where brushed or compact metal‑effect walls and joinery are being specified.
PROFESSIONAL METALLIC SYSTEM · INTERIOR WALLS & JOINERY · SPECIFICATION‑READY
Key specifications
| Type | Water‑based metallic decorative coating system for interior use, developed by Valpaint and specified, tinted and supported in the UK by Italian Surface Finishes. |
|---|---|
| Finish | True metallic effect, from fine brushed metal to compact or textured metallic panels, depending on application method and build. |
| Binder / chemistry | Acrylic resin system in water dispersion with metallic pigments and mineral fillers. |
| Density | Approx. 2.40–2.60 kg/L at 20 °C (ready to use). |
| Consumption* |
Approx. 150–1050 g/m² per coat, depending on finish: • Smooth compact / brushed effects → lower consumption. • Relief and sculpted textures → higher consumption. Exact values must be verified via sampling on the project substrate. |
| VOC & emissions |
VOC content ≤ 40 g/L (EU Directive 2004/42/EC, Cat A/I, limit 200 g/L). Very low formaldehyde emissions (< 0.005 mg/m²h, F**** classification). |
| Application tools | Stainless steel trowels and spatulas for metallic coats; roller or brush for the primer. See ISF Tools & Accessories for recommended references. |
| Colour range | Valmetal metallic chart (bronze, brass, copper, steel, platinum, gold and silver tonalities). All tinting and colour calibration for UK projects are performed by Italian Surface Finishes. |
| Use | Interior walls, ceilings and selected joinery / feature panels in residential, retail and hospitality projects. Not designed for floors or fully exposed exterior façades. |
*Consumption depends on substrate, effect and number of passes; always confirm on a representative sample panel.
Compatible substrates & priming
Valmetal is suitable for interior substrates that are sound, dry and properly prepared:
- Plastered masonry and concrete (render, skimmed cementitious bases).
- Gypsum plasters and plasterboard (taped, filled and sanded).
- Fibre‑cement boards and cement‑based panels.
- Existing paintwork that is sound, non‑chalky and de‑glossed.
- Interior timber and joinery elements (primed and stabilised).
Substrates must be clean (free from dust, grease, release agents, efflorescence and mould) and levelled to the flatness required by the chosen design.
Priming system
All compatible substrates should be primed with FISSATIVO ACRILICO 30 G TRASPARENTE, diluted 1:5 with clean water, applied by roller, brush or spray to regulate absorption and stabilise the surface. Allow approx. 4–6 hours at 20 °C before applying Valmetal.
System build — typical wall specification
The full Valmetal range allows multiple effects. A typical UK specification for a brushed metallic wall finish is:
- Substrate preparation — repair cracks and defects; fill, skim and sand to an agreed level of flatness. Remove dust and contaminants. Treat any mould, salts or moisture issues and allow the substrate to dry completely.
- Primer — apply Fissativo Acrilico 30 G Trasparente, diluted 1:5 with water, by roller or brush. Work uniformly, avoiding runs or pooling. Allow approx. 4–6 hours at 20 °C to dry.
- First Valmetal coat — stir Valmetal thoroughly. Using a stainless steel trowel or spatula, apply a continuous first coat to fully cover the primed surface. This coat establishes the base metallic film and colour. Allow to dry as per data sheet (typically 2–3 hours).
- Second Valmetal coat / refinement — apply a second thin coat and, depending on the desired finish, work the product with the trowel to create brushed, compact or lightly textured metal effects. Direction (vertical / horizontal / diagonal) and pressure will control grain and sheen.
- Optional accent / stencil work — for relief panels, stencilled elements or more complex designs, additional Valmetal passes may be used through stencils or masks once the underlying coats have sufficiently dried.
Valmetal is supplied ready for use. Where specified, viscosity may be increased slightly with ADDENSANTE NH (up to approx. 1.5 % by weight) for certain relief effects; do not exceed this dosage and always mix thoroughly.
Drying & curing
- Touch‑dry: approx. 1–2 hours at 20 °C and 60 % RH.
- Recoat / reworking: approx. 2–3 hours, depending on thickness and conditions.
- Through‑dry / full depth: approx. 36 hours at 20 °C.
Do not subject the finish to masking, heavy impact or aggressive cleaning until fully cured. Lower temperatures and higher humidity extend drying times; maintain stable conditions during application and curing.
Maintenance & cleaning
Once fully cured, Valmetal forms a breathable metallic film with good resistance to normal wall contact. As a decorative metallic system, it should be maintained with care:
- Dust regularly with a soft, dry cloth or microfibre duster.
- For light marks, clean gently with a soft damp cloth and mild neutral detergent, then dry with a soft cloth.
- Avoid abrasive pads, scouring powders, strong alkalis, bleach and solvent‑based cleaners.
- Protect corners and edges from repeated impact, e.g. trolleys and luggage.
Health, safety & project resources
Valmetal is a water‑based, low‑VOC metallic system designed for interior use when applied in accordance with manufacturer guidance.
- Ensure good ventilation during application and initial drying.
- Avoid contact with skin and eyes; wear suitable gloves and eye protection.
- Do not inhale spray or sanding dust; use appropriate respiratory protection if spraying or sanding.
- Store in tightly closed original containers between +5 °C and +30 °C; protect from frost and heat sources.
- Dispose of residues and containers according to local regulations; do not pour product or wash water into drains.
Valmetal resources
Use these resources together when writing Valmetal into a specification or preparing a project.
- Product page Overview, imagery and enquiry form for the metallic system.
- Application guide Sequence, trowel technique and effect control for site teams.
- FAQ Positioning, zones, substrates and client language.
- Valpaint London Academy Course structure for Valmetal and related systems.
- Architectural finishes overview Context for Valmetal within the wider ISF portfolio.
