As new technologies emerge, coatings manufacturers must demonstrate a commitment to product innovation as well as transparency in testing and certification to ensure solutions meet the latest international standards. Amid these evolving regulations, supply chain uncertainties and rising performance expectations, a reliable coatings partner ensures product excellence, long-term project success and peace of mind. 

Why Trust Remains Critical 

Trust remains the foundation of every successful coatings partnership. Protective coatings serve as the frontline defense against corrosion, fire and environmental stressors, making their selection a critical decision. However, trust in a supplier’s ability to deliver remains crucial beyond product specifications. A trusted coatings partner provides: 

• Proven performance – Verifiable product testing and compliance with global standards 

• Reliable supply – Consistency in meeting project deadlines despite market fluctuations 

• Technical expertise – Guidance in selecting the best solutions for each project demands 

• Long-term commitment – Post-application support and continued innovation 

A key factor in building and maintaining this trust is transparent communication. Clear, open dialogue between suppliers and customers ensures that expectations align from project inception to completion. Whether addressing performance claims, sustainability considerations or supply chain concerns, transparency fosters confidence in the coatings selection process. 

Each project has unique needs, including the application method, environmental conditions and aesthetic requirements. The right coatings supplier recognizes that coatings solutions are not one-size-fits-all and has the depth of experience and technical expertise to recommend a customized solution that meets performance requirements. For example, a thorough knowledge of building codes and structural engineering principles in infrastructure projects can improve coatings performance and cost efficiencies through optimizations early in the construction process. 

One of the most essential aspects of a trusted partner is the proven performance of their products. Nowhere is this more crucial than in fire protection, where coatings must meet the highest standards under real-world conditions. While PPG STEELGUARD® coating is an industry leader in thin-film cellulosic fire protection, PPG PITT-CHAR® coating has been trusted for decades in hydrocarbon fire scenarios, providing durable and reliable fire protection under extreme conditions. 

A key differentiator of PPG’s fire protection portfolio is its use of maximum allowable load conditions during fire testing. PPG fire protection specialists and structural engineers consult both Allowable Stress Design (ASD) and Load and Resistance Factor Design (LRFD) methods to test coatings that meet International Building Code (IBC) standards. The coating is tested under the maximum structural stresses allowed within the test criteria rather than reduced load conditions, which helps ensure it performs consistently in actual fire scenarios. This gives asset owners and specifiers greater trust in its protection and effectiveness. 

Innovation: Staying Ahead of Industry Shifts 

As regulations become more stringent and project demands more complex, coatings manufacturers must stay ahead by investing in research and development to create next-generation solutions that: 

• Meet fire protection and environmental standards – New formulations such as low-VOC coatings and thin-film intumescent fire protection improve protection while reducing environmental impact 

• Prioritize verified testing and certification protocols – Coatings should meet internationally recognized building and safety standards and employ third-party testing and verification to ensure accuracy 

• Enhance durability and sustainability – Coatings that offer extended asset life, corrosion resistance and lower maintenance requirements support sustainable construction and infrastructure longevity 

• Reduce application complexity and downtime – Innovations like fast-drying and high-build coatings minimize disruption, accelerating project timelines while maintaining performance 

These advancements in coatings are already making a measurable impact in real-world applications. For example, a leading German biotechnology company partnered with one of Portugal’s largest steel constructors to build a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Kigali, Rwanda. The project required a 90-minute fire protection solution that met strict safety standards while withstanding long-distance transportation and diverse environmental conditions. 

To address these challenges, the team selected a passive fire protection coating certified under ISO standards for its flexibility, durability and high performance in C3 and C5 corrosivity environments. This innovative solution ensured that the 60,000 kg of applied material arrived in Rwanda undamaged and ready for seamless on-site assembly. 

The project was completed on schedule in four months using proven, rigorously tested fire protection. It is a testament to how coatings innovation shapes the future, enabling greater protection, efficiency and resilience in global construction.