When it comes to achieving the perfect finish, a perfect colour match should be high on your list of priorities. But what is the secret behind a true, vibrant and long-lasting colour? Read on as Richard Palmer at Valspar Trade explores all…
Why is colour so important?
There is far more to colour than it just being nice to look at. Used correctly, colour can have a very real impact on our mood, emotions and well-being, influencing how we experience and interact with a space. It can enhance a room’s aesthetic and even make a smaller space appear larger.
That’s why it’s so important to get the colour just right, regardless of whether your customer has opted for a calming, neutral vibe or a more vibrant look.
What role do pigments play in paint formulations?
Of the four components that make up paint formulations (pigment, binder, additives and liquid), it is the pigment that holds the key to achieving a bright and true colour. A finely ground particle provides the whiteness, colour, coverage and bulk of paint.\
While there are two main types of pigment (prime and extender), prime pigment gives the paint its colour or whiteness. One of the most valuable examples is Titanium Dioxide, the predominant white pigment in high quality paints. Effectively dispersing light, it provides exceptional whiteness and high levels of opacity. One of the most expensive pigments available, while 90% of paint products will contain it, cheaper paints will often have lower proportions to keep costs down.
As well as the pigment volume concentration being key, it’s also about the quality of pigments used. Valspar Trade use cleaner and finer pigments, creating a truer colour and allowing for easier application.
What is the science behind colour matching?
A perfect colour match needs more than just high-quality pigments. It’s all about the technology, spectrometer and database used, as well as the strength of the colourants.
Typically, colour matching will involve the use of tools, such as a spectrometer or spectrophotometer, to analyse a colour sample, breaking it down into its constituent pigments. This will then be used to determine the closest matching colour from a paint manufacturer’s fan deck, or alternatively create a custom formula from an extensive database. The colour sample used could be anything, from an alternate paint manufacturer’s colour chip to the homeowner’s favourite cushion.
Carefully calibrated, the tinting machine’s computer system will dispense the perfect amount and set combination of pigments required to create the desired colour. The can will then be heavily shaken to ensure the pigment is thoroughly combined with the base formulation for a smooth, consistent and true colour.
