Module 4: Surface Finishing and Detailing 

1. Painting and Decorating Techniques

Surface finishing through painting transforms raw shopfitting elements into polished, brand-aligned components.

Key Techniques:

• Surface Preparation:

• Sanding (80-120 grit for initial smoothing, 180-220 for final prep)

• Filling (wood filler for cracks/imperfections)

• Degreasing (trisodium phosphate solutions for metal/plastic)

• Priming:

• Oil-based for exterior/high-moisture areas

• Shellac-based for stain blocking

• Self-etching primers for metals

• Application Methods:

• Brushwork (cutting-in edges, detailed work)

• Roller techniques (nap selection based on surface texture)

• Spray systems (HVLP for fine finishes, airless for large areas)

• Specialty Finishes:

• Distressing for vintage aesthetics

• Metallic/epoxy coatings for contemporary spaces

• Anti-graffiti coatings for high-traffic areas

Industry Standards:

• BS 6150 for painting in construction

• Minimum 2-coat systems for commercial durability

• 72-hour cure time before handling in retail environments

2. Laminate and Veneer Application

These thin surface materials provide durable, decorative finishes for shopfitting components.

Material Comparison:

Application Process:

1. Substrate Preparation:

• MDF preferred for stability (moisture content <12%)

• Edge banding required for exposed sides

2. Adhesive Selection:

• Contact cement for high-pressure laminates

• PVA for veneers with vacuum pressing

3. Installation Techniques:

• Roller application for small areas

• Hydraulic presses for large panels (140psi pressure)

4. Post-Installation:

• Router trimming for clean edges

• Silicone carbide sanding (400+ grit) for veneers

3. Metal and Glass Finishing

These materials require specialized techniques for retail-grade finishes.

Metal Finishing Options:

• Brushed: #4 finish (consistent grain pattern)

• Polished: Mirror finish (0.05μm Ra surface)

• Powder Coating: 60-80μm thickness

• Anodizing: 5-25μm oxide layer (Type II/III)

Glass Treatment Methods:

• Toughening: BS EN 12150 compliance

• Acid Etching: 20-40% hydrofluoric acid solutions

• Digital Printing: Ceramic frit at 720dpi resolution

• Lamination: 1.52mm PVB interlayer standard

Safety Protocol:

• Category 5 PPE for glass handling

• Local exhaust ventilation for metal grinding

4. Signage Installation

Effective signage combines visibility, brand compliance, and structural integrity.

Mounting Systems:

• Channel Letter Fixing:

• Raceway mounting (150mm minimum clearance)

• Direct wall fixing (stainless steel standoffs)

• Fascia Signage:

• Aluminum composite panel substrates

• 6mm minimum acrylic face

• Illuminated Signs:

• IP65 rated components for exterior use

• 100mm service access requirement

Regulatory Compliance:

• BS 5499 for safety signage

• Town and Country Planning Act for exterior signs

• 120-minute fire rating for mall installations

5. Quality Control and Finishing Standards

Rigorous inspection ensures commercial durability and aesthetic perfection.

Inspection Checklist:

1. Visual Examination:

• 3m/5m viewing distance test

• Consistent 500lux lighting conditions

2. Tactile Inspection:

• Edge smoothness (no >0.5mm irregularities)

• Surface contamination (max 3 defects/m²)

3. Performance Testing:

• 50,000 cycle test for moving parts

• 15kg point load test for shelving

Acceptance Criteria:

• Paint Finishes:

• 85+ gloss units for high-shine surfaces

• ≤0.5mm orange peel effect

• Joinery:
  1mm gap tolerance for doors/drawers
  2mm flush alignment for panels

Documentation Requirements:

• Material certificates (ISO 9001 compliant)

• Installation method statements

• 5-year finish warranty documentation

This module establishes professional standards for surface treatments that withstand commercial use while maintaining aesthetic excellence. Each technique requires specialized knowledge of materials, application methods, and compliance requirements to achieve retail-grade results.