Materials and fibres in professional painting systems

The appearance and the coverage rate of a job depend closely on the structure of the application tools. Thanks to their distinctive scaly structure, natural bristles have long been essential for applying synthetic enamels, solvent-based paints and wood stains, ensuring optimal loading and gradual release of the product. Conversely, for modern water-based paints, quartz paints and silicates, synthetic filaments (such as polyester, nylon or acrylic blends) deliver far better performance, as they do not absorb water and retain their elastic stiffness even after prolonged use.

Among professional brushes and rollers, the choice of sleeve fabric is just as critical for the operator. Long-pile polyamide yarns (18 mm and above) are ideal for rough surfaces, standard plaster and exterior façades, as they reach into the micro-cavities of the substrate. Short-pile microfibre (around 8-10 mm), on the other hand, ensures extremely smooth, compact, mirror-like finishes, making it the first choice for gypsum skim coats, plasterboard panels and high-opacity wall enamels.

Preparing a painting job: protection and masking

Before any paint tin is opened, making the rooms safe requires rigorous masking procedures to prevent accidental damage to frames, fine flooring, windows and doors. Masking tapes are the first line of protection: standard crepe paper versions (masking tape) are suitable for short-term general use and simple masking. However, for sharp lines on delicate substrates, wallpaper borders or freshly painted surfaces, low-tack tapes are needed, as they peel off cleanly without tearing.

Horizontal surfaces are protected with all-purpose dust sheets. While thin clear polyethylene film is sufficient and economical for shielding furniture, doors and vertical fittings from dust and accidental splashes, protecting floors that will be walked on involves different requirements. Felt-backed laminates or rolls of corrugated cardboard are essential: the non-woven fabric side instantly absorbs paint drips, preventing them from being carried around on shoes, while the plastic-coated base underneath blocks liquids and cushions accidentally dropped scrapers or tools, preventing scratches on parquet, resin and ceramic floors.

Managing the painting range in B2B retail

Paint application consumables have a very high turnover rate and are a steady source of margin for the building materials distributor. Applying the principles of Progetto Rivendita 2.0, the physical layout of the showroom becomes decisive in maximising sales.

The display should support a smooth, intuitive purchasing path: placing application tools (such as ceiling brushes, mini rollers, roller grids, telescopic poles and buckets) right next to protection products and the tinting area naturally encourages cross-selling. This logical proximity ensures that professionals, when having their paint mixed and buying it, have everything they need at hand to complete the application cycle on site. A well-designed layout increases the average transaction value and confirms the hardware store as a proactive supplier, able to anticipate the applicator's real operational needs.

ARLIA GIUSEPPE DI MARINO E ALESSANDRO ARLIA SNC

ARLIA GIUSEPPE DI MARINO E ALESSANDRO ARLIA SNC

Subscribe to the FT newsletter