When it comes to coatings, the resin, or “binder,” acts as an adhesive that keeps all the elements of a paint formulation together. The resin selected is the backbone of the coating and therefore the primary source for determining the coating’s durability and physical properties. When choosing a resin-based coating, it’s important to know some of their key features.

Fluoropolymer resins are known for non-stick properties and their ability to avoid UV damage. The most well-known best performing resin in this category is Polyvinylidene Fluoride (PVDF). PVDF is at least 70 percent of the binder used in superior performance coatings, while an acrylic resin makes up the other 30 percent. PVDFs are found in coil coatings, where exceptional durability is desired. When compared to other coatings, PVDF resin-based coatings were the only coatings that did not lose their original gloss within 2-5 years.

One of the most common causes of failure for resin-based coatings is the risk of color fading. Luckily, PVDF resins are transparent to UV rays and create a coating system that prevents color from fading when combined with durable inorganic pigments. These resins are also designed to withstand humidity, water, extreme temperatures and oxygen. This is especially helpful for applications near the ocean, where salt in the air can put the coating at risk for corrosion.

Coatings using PVDF resins are also more likely to retain color when compared to polyester or silicon-modified polyester coatings. The strength of PVDF is based upon the fluorine-carbon bond—the strongest in nature–which means the bond is nearly unbreakable under the most extreme weather conditions.

New buildings or renovated buildings with advanced finishes of PVDP will remain vibrant and durable for many years.