How to Apply Heat-Reducing Solar Reflective Coating?

When working with synthetic glazing, not all surfaces are compatible with traditional solar films. A solar reflective coating is a smart alternative. This white surface coating helps:

• significantly reduce indoor heat buildup,
• cut down on glare,
• and provide a clean, durable finish—even on tricky materials like polycarbonate.

When applied by a skilled installer, the improvement in comfort can be truly impressive.

Compatible surfaces

One of the biggest advantages of solar reflective coatings is their versatility. They work well on most rigid plastic glazing, especially where adhesive films struggle or can’t hold.

Typical applications include:

• Polycarbonate roofing panels
• Plexiglass or similar materials
• Domes, skylights, and light wells
• Veranda and conservatory roofs made of synthetic glazing
• Corrugated or curved plastic structures

The coating adheres effectively thanks to its specific formulation based on alkyd resin.

Tools and materials you’ll need

To ensure a clean, long-lasting result, make sure you’re using the right gear. Here’s what we recommend:

• Abrasive pads suitable for plastic surfaces
• Powder degreasing detergent based on oxidrine
• Short-nap roller (for smaller areas)
• Paint sprayer or airless spray gun (for large areas)
• Clean cloths and a bucket of water for rinsing

Some tools can be substituted in a pinch, but following the full list gives you the best chance at a professional-grade finish.

Surface preparation for optimal adhesion

Surface prep is essential to ensure proper adhesion and coating durability:

• Thoroughly clean and degrease the surface.
• Rinse well with clean water and let it dry completely.
• Lightly sand the plastic surface with an abrasive pad to create a mechanical bond.

Depending on the type of surface:

• On domes, sand in a circular motion and apply the coating from bottom to top. Repeat this on all four sides.
• On corrugated or curved panels, sand vertically (top to bottom), apply the coating from bottom to top, and finish with a light pass along the curves from top to bottom.

This light sanding step greatly improves adhesion and reduces the risk of peeling later on.

Roller application method

For flat surfaces of modest size—like horizontal polycarbonate panels or easily accessible roof elements—a short-nap roller can be effective. However, in many cases, spray application is still the preferred method.

• Apply a first thin coat, with overlapping horizontal and vertical strokes.
• Let dry for about 1 hour.
• Apply a second thin cross coat.

Avoid overloading the roller. Excess product may cause runs and uneven drying.

Spray application for large areas

For large-scale roofs, conservatories, or domes, spraying is the most effective method.

Follow these steps:

• Shake or stir the coating thoroughly before pouring it into the sprayer.
• Spray at a distance of about 30 centimetres, with a spray cone approximately 30 cm wide.
• Apply in three overlapping passes:
  • The first pass should be very light to promote adhesion.
  • The next two passes build up coverage.
• Recommended pressure: 2.8 to 3 bars
• Nozzle size: 0.8 millimetres, with a vertical spray pattern

This technique ensures fast, even coverage without excess buildup.

Drying time, durability, and post-application care

The coating dries quickly, even on large areas:

• Dust-free in about 15 minutes
• Fully dry in 2 to 6 hours, depending on temperature and humidity

Post-application tips:

• Avoid moisture exposure during drying
• Don’t touch or clean the surface until it’s completely dry
• Check visually for even coverage once dry

Once set, the coating forms a durable layer that provides long-lasting protection from solar radiation—without altering the visual aspect of the surface.

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Mastering the application of this solar protective coating allows installers to offer effective, long-term solutions where standard films simply aren’t suitable. It’s also a great way to showcase technical expertise and meet the expectations of demanding clients.