SPM RESOURCES · PROJECT PLANNING
Raw aluminium, preparation and finish options for pressed metal
Separate the panel material, its preparation and the final appearance when planning a pressed metal project. SPM’s published information says standard supply-only products are generally raw aluminium, with etch-prime available where required. Powder coating is offered in conjunction with SPM installation rather than as part of normal supply-only orders. Confirm the finish and work included in the installation quote.
The useful next step is to tell SPM how and where the panels will be used, and ask what is included in the proposed quote. This guide explains the questions to ask; it does not prescribe a coating or installation system.
What does “raw aluminium” mean for your enquiry?
When discussing a standard supply-only order, start from SPM’s stated raw-aluminium supply basis rather than assuming that a gallery colour is included. Describe the finished appearance you want separately.
Ask SPM to confirm the supplied condition of the selected panels and whether any preparation is included. The word “raw” on its own does not answer every question about the work needed for your particular application.
Clarify preparation before specifying a finish
Etch-prime is an available option where required, according to SPM’s published product information. Ask whether it is appropriate for the quoted scope and what SPM will supply or carry out.
Useful questions include:
- Will the panels be supplied raw or with agreed preparation?
- Is etch-prime included in this quote, or does it need to be requested?
- Who is responsible for any further preparation and finishing?
- What instructions apply to the selected material and finish?
Do not choose a primer, paint, application method or preparation sequence from a gallery photograph. Those details need confirmation for the proposed system.
Describe the appearance you want to explore
A reference image can help explain the visual direction: for example, a light or dark appearance, or a brass- or copper-looking surface. Include the image or its page link and say which part of it appeals to you.
The SPM brass and copper page distinguishes custom solid-metal options from gallery appearances whose construction cannot be identified from the photograph. Ask SPM to confirm the quoted material and finish rather than treating these as interchangeable.
Powder coating, supply only and installation
For supply only, confirm the panel, material, supplied condition and any agreed preparation. For installation, ask which preparation and finishing work is included in the project. Powder coating is offered with SPM installation; do not assume it is included in a supply-only order. Confirm the particular colour or finish and whether it is included in the installation quote.
For a splashback, provide photographs showing the wall, fittings and cooking appliances. The SPM splashbacks page explains that suitability depends on the project and the selected material, finish and installation requirements.
Questions to settle before ordering
Does a metallic-looking panel have to be solid brass or copper?
No conclusion about construction should be drawn from appearance alone. Ask SPM to identify the material and finish in your quote.
Can SPM provide a sample of the proposed finish?
Ask about sample availability for the selected option. Do not assume that every gallery reference has a sample available.
What cleaning or maintenance will the finish need?
Ask SPM for cleaning and maintenance guidance for the exact material and finish being quoted.
Ask SPM to confirm your material and finish scope
Send the application, approximate dimensions, pattern preference, finish reference, location and whether your enquiry is for supply only or installation. Mark anything you have not yet decided.
Discuss preparation and finish options with SPM, or browse the existing pressed metal product ranges.
