Mimicking nature’s best

By Dani Sheehan. 

This diverse collection from Sherwin-Williams utilizes innovative technology to give your customers the depth and variation of natural materials without the associated maintenance, weight or cost. 

Kiki Redhead and Brynn Wildenaur from Sherwin-Williams are back in another episode of MetalCast to talk about their innovative Emulate™ Architectural Metal Coatings. From intricate woodgrain designs to manipulated metal patterns, these coatings provide a natural appearance without the environmental impact of traditional materials. 

One of the most intriguing aspects of the Emulate collection is its ability to replicate the natural beauty of wood, metal and stone with stunning accuracy. As Kiki points out, “We do a lot of development of colors, ideation of colors and materials. We work on developing new collections so that we can inspire our customers with ideas for how to apply colors to architecture.” 

The Emulate series offers a wide range of design possibilities across its wood, metal and stone collections. Brynn emphasizes the innovative approach behind the wood collection, saying, “We wanted to inspire people to think a little bit outside the box. Because we see wood as a building product very commonly and very frequently, we wanted to push the boundaries. But also, they have some more safe and traditional options.” 

Brynn further explains the print process that allows for such intricate detailing and multiple layers of color and texture. She shares, “These are printed through a rotogravure print process. It goes through the coil line in a couple of unique ways. You have the primer, and then the color coat. Then it goes through a process where there is an ink layer, we'll call it, where there is a cylinder with small cells carved out of it that pick up ink, and then drop it down onto the color coat of the coil. Then it gets a clear coat on top.” 

This unique process gives a variety of options for the end result. Kiki adds, “You’ll see these wood applications in everything from light commercial projects to something like a barnboard that would look fantastic paired with the barndominium style of residential or agricultural buildings.” Whether you’re looking for modern, sleek, rustic or natural, these coatings provide endless possibilities for creative design. 

Read the transcript, Listen to the podcast or Watch the webinar to discover how Emulate™ Architectural Metal Coatings can elevate your projects and give your customers the natural look they crave with the durability and performance they need.