Definition- The degree of luster of the dried film of a finishing material. The amount of shine.
Causes of Sheen Problems- Poor mixing of the coating preventing the flatting agent to mix in or stay settled at the bottom of the container. Results in low sheen.
- Film is not dry enough. Results in high sheen.
- Improperly catalyzed coating. Results in high or low sheen.
- Sheen problem caused by poor flow, over spray, micro bubbles, blush, or haze. Results in high or low sheen.
- Film over the dried coating such as grease or polish. Results in high or low sheen.
- Application of too heavy a coat of product.
Prevention of Sheen Problems- Properly mix and agitate the coating both before and during applications as necessary. Reference Rudd mixing instructions.
- Allow film to dry longer. Lower sheen will take longer to develop their sheens.
- Catalyze at the correct ratio.
- Observe the dried film and examine for other possible problems causing the low sheen.
- Clean the dried film of grease or polish.
- Apply thinner coats of product.
- Lightly scuff sand with steel wool or 600 grit sanding sponge to either dull or polish the dried film.
Possible Fixes for Sheen Problems- Strip and refinish
- Sand and recoat
Questions to Ask- Has the product been altered in any way?
Thinners, retarders, colorants, additives, any other additional adds to the product? - Were there any products (water based, oil based, glazes, stains)used that may have left residual material behind?
- What are the environmental conditions, both during application and cure?
- Have things changed, including equipment and personnel?
- Are the products being used compatible?
- Are the products being used from the same manufacturer?
- Was there any preliminary testing of this system before it was used on a larger scale?
- When in the finish process did you notice the problem?
- Has this problem happened before?
If so, what were the conditions at that time, especially compared to the current conditions? - Has the product been catalyzed properly?
- How much coating is being applied per coat?
- Was the product adequately mixed before and during use?
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