IGP's powder coatings are made for the real outdoors

More and more people are choosing to use their outdoor space as they are used to inside, including design, comfort and durability. Today, canopies, conservatories and other outdoor structures are therefore fully-fledged living spaces in which people cook, play, work and, last but not least, relax. That intensive use requires materials that are not only beautiful, but also withstand daily use in all weathers. "We also see this development," says Erwin Kleuters, general manager of IGP Benelux. "And that calls for coatings that can handle as much as the use itself."

Fine structure as the new standard

IGP supplies powder coatings for a variety of applications: from facades where the focus is on architectural appeal, to exterior structures that must above all withstand rough handling. "Whereas one industry is all about refinement and visual impact, for canopies and outdoor solutions the focus is precisely on the intensity of use," Kleuters explains. "This is precisely where the added value of our Super Durable fine-textured coatings comes into its own."

Several variants are available within the IGP-HWFclassic 591T series (the deep matte, super durable and robust powder coating with a fine sandy texture). "This series is tremendously robust," Kleuters emphasizes. "We even called it internally the 'IGP-HWFclassic 591T parkour' version for years, because it can withstand intensive transport, assembly and end use."

No compromise on design

What makes these coatings special is that this robustness goes remarkably well with a refined look. Fine textures with a matte finish are popular because they give depth to the surface, are less sensitive to visible stains or fingerprints and contribute to a contemporary look. "Designers and conservatory builders are increasingly asking for these textures with character; from subtle sandy to coarser grained or just with a metallic effect," Kleuters says. "They fit perfectly with modern outdoor living, where comfort and aesthetics go hand in hand."

An additional advantage is in the practical part: the fine texture hides minor damage from the substrate, is less susceptible to scratching during refinishing, transport and installation, and offers a higher resistance to daily intensive use. "Especially at a time when outdoor use is in full swing, that really makes a difference. Whether it's daily use by a family, an outdoor kitchen in full action or children playing with bicycles and toys - these coatings can stand up to it."

Easy to keep clean

What not everyone knows is that IGP adds an anti-dirt additive to these coatings as standard: IGP-DURAclean®. This technology ensures that dirt is less likely to adhere to the surface. "So you don't have to clean as often," Kleuters explains. "And when you do clean, it's easier and more environmentally friendly, because you can use plain water, possibly supplemented with a neutral detergent. That makes our coatings ideal for intensively used outdoor solutions."

IGP-DURAclean® is not a superficial protective layer, but an integrated component of the coating. As a result, the effect remains long-lasting, even after years of use. The technology was extensively tested by the FEM test institute, including comparing residual gloss and color fastness over several cycles with standard coatings, with IGP's coatings coming out particularly well in the tests.

A conscious choice 

IGP's quality does not go unnoticed. For example, ROMA, an established name in sun protection and outdoor living, deliberately chooses these high-quality coatings. "The fact that such a brand is committed to our products confirms for us the choice for quality. With our super-durable fine-textured powder coatings, we offer a reliable, hard-wearing and aesthetically pleasing finish for any exterior construction," Kleuters concludes.