Getting a smooth/lightly textured finish with DuraTex?

[DIYNewbie]

Based on some of the posts I found in these forums (particularly this one), I decided to coat my most recent DIY speakers in DuraTex. I ordered a gallon (way more than I need!), and have now applied three coats. Below is a picture of how the texture looks right now.

This is my first time using it, and I'm pretty happy with the results so far. However, if possible, I would like a smoother/less textured finish. On the manufacturer's page, under the "Textures" tab, they show "light orange peel". Something like that would be ideal for me, or maybe somewhat replicating the texture of vinyl-covered guitar amps/cabs.

I chose DuraTex for the matte black "utilitarian" or "industrial" look, but these speakers will go on my desk, so ideally I'd like a hint of class.



Edit: I'm using the roller-grade version of DuraTex.

[tombond]

Re: Getting a smooth/lightly textured finish with DuraTex?

I've used a smooth roller with light sanding on the first coat to achieve an effect similar to what you are describing. Sanding the second coat also would make it smoother I think. Then the last coat rolled on thin would be fine without sanding. Since you have quite a bit, I would use it on some scraps to see if you get the results you are looking for. Try several different methods to see what works best for you.

[ani_101]

Re: Getting a smooth/lightly textured finish with DuraTex?

depends a lot on the roller youare using. Are you using the blue roller from Duratex? If so, then you will get aggressive texture.

Try using regular foam roller or the white fine roller - this will give a smoother texture.

Achieving the orane peel is difficult, as you not only need to dilute the duratex (equal parts water) but also use a fine roller. Experiment with differnent types of roller and they diluted Duratex to get the finish texture you want.

Also, check out the Duratex demo done at DDIY - Link here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ItEFdZuhNAg

[isaeagle4031]

Re: Getting a smooth/lightly textured finish with DuraTex?

I use a 4" foam roller available from Menards. Heavy on the first coat. As it starts to set up, I will switch to a new roller and go lightly across the finish to knock down high spots. Then the next coat, lightly with the first roller. 2 coats is usually enough.

[Face]

Re: Getting a smooth/lightly textured finish with DuraTex?

I use a 14" foam roller from Lowes, it gives a smoother finish than pictured above and also doesn't leave any seams.

[fastbike1]

Re: Getting a smooth/lightly textured finish with DuraTex?

My technique is similar to isaeagle. I use the fine foam roller from Lowes. What works the best for a finer finish (for me) is to spread and smooth your coat with one roller, which should minimize seams. I then go back over the coat within a couple of minutes with another DRY foam roller with no pressure. This removes all seams and gives a smooth surface. The dry roller will pick up very little paint and can be used for the whole job. I do the same for any succeeding coats. Two is usually enough. If you store the rollers in ziplock bags, you won't need to clean or replace them until the whole job is done.

[ejh2854]

Re: Getting a smooth/lightly textured finish with DuraTex?

Same here- roll, then re-roll with a dry foam roller... thinning the "roller grade" stuff slightly helps as well. Best results for me have come from applying over a base coat of semi-gloss black latex.





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[DIYNewbie]

Re: Getting a smooth/lightly textured finish with DuraTex?

Thanks for all the helpful hints!

I've used a smooth roller with light sanding on the first coat to achieve an effect similar to what you are describing. Sanding the second coat also would make it smoother I think. Then the last coat rolled on thin would be fine without sanding. Since you have quite a bit, I would use it on some scraps to see if you get the results you are looking for. Try several different methods to see what works best for you.

Regarding sanding: is there a particular time to wait after applying to sand? Obviously it needs to be dry, but is dry good enough, or should I wait the full curing time (up to a week depending on temperature and humidity)?

[fastbike1]

Re: Getting a smooth/lightly textured finish with DuraTex?

Depends on conditions. If not too cold or too humid, you can sand in a couple of hours. If the paper gums up, it's not dry enough. You should be able to produce a relatively fine powder.

I should add that I recommend buying the "spray quality" mix even though I always roll on. A little easier to get a fine finish w/o diluting.

Thanks for all the helpful hints!



Regarding sanding: is there a particular time to wait after applying to sand? Obviously it needs to be dry, but is dry good enough, or should I wait the full curing time (up to a week depending on temperature and humidity)?

[isaeagle4031]

Re: Getting a smooth/lightly textured finish with DuraTex?

I should add that I recommend buying the "spray quality" mix even though I always roll on. A little easier to get a fine finish w/o diluting.

Good advice. I hadn't thought of that. May try that once this gallon is about gone. That may take awhile!

[isaeagle4031]

Re: Getting a smooth/lightly textured finish with DuraTex?

I should add that I recommend buying the "spray quality" mix even though I always roll on. A little easier to get a fine finish w/o diluting.

Good advice. I hadn't thought of that. May try that once this gallon is about gone. That may take awhile!

[PWR RYD]

Re: Getting a smooth/lightly textured finish with DuraTex?

Good advice. I hadn't thought of that. May try that once this gallon is about gone. That may take awhile!

+1

Thanks Larry.