Knowing how much paint you need for a job is essential. This page shows how you can work this out.
Volume Solids
To work out paint consumption, you first need to know the volume solids.
The volume solids is defined as the volume proportion of solid ingredients remaining after evaporation of solvent. It is normally expressed as a percentage.
The figure for volume solids of all solvent and water based products produced by Leighs Paints and specified on product Technical Data Sheets is determined by laboratory analysis.
The method of determination used is that laid down in ASTM-D2697-91. This is a recognised and accurate method for determination of volume solids giving reproducible results within close tolerances which we believe gives a true reflection of the actual volume solids of a particular product.
Theoretical Spreading Rate
The theoretical spreading rate for a product is calculated from the volume solids of that product and the dry film thickness required using the following equation:
Theoretical spreading rate may also be calculated from the volume solids by a second method, as follows:
Working out wet and dry thicknesses
The relationship between wet film thickness and dry film thickness is governed by the following equation:
Typical example:
If the dry film thickness required is 100 microns using a material of 65% volume solids, what is required wet film thickness? Using above equation:
Using the above relationship it is possible to calculate the wet film thickness for any given dry film thickness and vice versa.
Find out how this works in practice.