A Beginner’s Guide To Buying a Paint Thickness Gauge

A paint thickness gauge or paint meter is used to determine the coating thickness of a particular coating. This tool can be used on any surface, including metal, concrete, and wood. It's important to have a quality paint thickness gauge because an improper reading can lead to costly mistakes.

If you're reading this guide for the first time, it may seem complicated at first glance! But no need to worry - with this beginner's guide you'll soon discover that buying a paint thickness gauge really isn't as hard as it seems!

 

A coating paint thickness gauge is an instrument used to measure the thickness of a layer of coating or paint on a surface. It is important to make sure that the applied coatings are not too thick, as too much weight can compromise structural integrity and cause blistering.

The first thing you’ll want to do is purchase an actual paint gauge, which might also be referred to as a "paint meter" or "paint thickness gauge." You can find these at any hardware store or home improvement center for $300-$1000.

You’ll want to select one that is simple and easy to use because you’re going to be using it frequently and for a long time. If you don't like an instrument, you won't give your clients the confidence they need and ask for.

Next, make sure that you have a good surface on which to test the coatings. You’ll want something solid and smooth, such as ceramic tile or grout. Avoid using adhesives like silicone caulk or water-based paint, because they will leave behind oily residues that will interfere with the gauge's ability to read correctly.

You’ll also want to make sure that you have the proper lighting and distance from your test surface. You should try to measure at least 12” away from your test surface, and use a good light source like a cordless flashlight. Anything less than this will likely leave you with inaccurate results.

Lastly, if possible, practice on something other than wood or metal to get used to using the gauge correctly. You should be able to get a good feel for the instrument and get a feel for how to use it.

Here's a quick and easy way to accurately determine the paint thickness: When measuring, you want to follow the same guidelines that would be used in the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) standard. This is one of the best ways to measure paint or coating thickness because it is based on an industry-recognized standard. The test is performed under controlled conditions in order to give results that are accurate and repeatable.

In order to get an accurate coating thickness, you need to ensure that the gauge is ready. The point should be perpendicular to the surface of your choice, and not touching it. Also, make sure that your fingers are clear of the gauge while taking the measurement. The surface should be clean and free from contaminants, so try not to use a dirty surface.

To take a reading from your gauge, gently press down on its display with a thumbnail or finger. Hold down the thumb or finger for approximately 1 second then release it quickly upon completion of measuring. Repeat this for all coatings you want to measure and record the results in millimeters for each coating measured.

Buying a paint thickness gauge may seem overwhelming but with clarity about needs and functionality, it becomes easier to get the right one. You can always take the help of professional sellers such as TestCoat to make sure that you’re buying the best quality products.

About TestCoat:

For many years, TestCoat has been a trustworthy partner and leader in the supply and distribution of inspection equipment, laboratory & physical test equipment for the coatings and paint industries. We supply non-destructive quality control and testing instruments such as Paint thickness Mil Gauges, Gloss meters, paint meter, portable rockwell hardness tester, laboratory mixersviscometers, film applicatorsdrying time recorder, cupping testers, Wet scrub abrasion testers, Coating inspection kits with advanced technology, and of the highest standards.

For more information, visit https://www.testcoat-usa.com/