The most common misconception among finishing contractors today is the notion that they can save by using local or cheaper paints. The fact is that, on the contrary, cheaper paints usually have low Solid Content that result in higher finishing costs.
What is Solid Content?Solid Content is the paint film that remains behind after all solvents or thinners have evaporated. Solid content is the actual paint that you pay for because all other thinners in the can evaporate into the air after it is applied. Solid Content indicates the paint film thickness or it can also indicate the coverage of the paint. The higher the Solid Content, the fewer coats are required or, the higher the solid content, the larger the area is covered or painted. Solid Content is expressed as a percentage of the total liquid volume or weight of paint.
Example: 40% Solid Content by volume. This means that 400ml of the 1000ml in the can is what you actually pay for while 600ml evaporate in the air. The rule of thumb is, the higher the Solid Content, the better.
How do you save with SPARKO?
Look for paint and other finishing materials that are designed with High Solid Content. The following shows how savings can be achieved with a higher solid paint on a per liter basis as compared to the low solid paint.
SPARKO (High Solid)
Price/Liter: Php 254.00
(20% or 200ml Solid Content)
Brand X (Low Solids)
Price/Liter: Php 192.00
(10% or 100ml Solid Content)
Brand X needs 2 coats since its solid contents is only 10%
a. Brand X - 1st coat 10% = Php 192.00
b. Brand X - 2nd coat 10% = Php 192.00
b. Brand X - 2nd coat 10% = Php 192.00
20% = Php 384.00
It shows in this example that you will be saving with SPARKO by at least 27% in sealing the wooden door. The other savings is in the extra labor cost of doing a second coat and production time cost.
How do you evaluate the paint you are using?
- Ask for specification sheet from your paint supplier. It should show how much solid content there is in the Product and other technical details.
- Always do a test and compare brands by doing an Actual Application on a bare piece of wood to see which sealer or topcoat has a higher build up and, of course higher solid content. This is the best way to evaluate the product.
