The Finishing Touch by Superfici America

What do you do when your machine goes down?In this episode of the Finishing Touch Podcast, Bret Johnson sits down with Superfici America’s in-house customer support technician, Jacob Sloop, to talk about real-world troubleshooting, machine maintenance, and the value of on-demand support.Jacob shares what it’s like being the first call when something goes wrong, plus the most common issues he sees and how operators can prevent them before they turn into costly downtime.You’ll learn:When to troubleshoot yourself vs. when to call for helpThe most common (and preventable) machine issuesWhy cleanliness and routine maintenance matter more than you thinkHow on-demand support, remote access, and training resources keep production movingWhat information helps technicians solve problems fasterWhether you’re an experienced operator or new to automated finishing, this episode is packed with practical advice to help you keep your equipment running efficiently and avoid unnecessary headaches.🎧 Tune in and learn how to fix problems faster and keep your line moving.👉 Need support or troubleshooting help? Visit SuperficiAmerica.com to connect with our team and access resources.

In this episode of the Finishing Touch Podcast, host Bret Johnson from Superfici America sits down with Jose Graibe of IMECA Lumber & Hardware and Matt Lowe of Superfici America for a conversation filmed on location in Doral, Florida.Together, they explore how the partnership between Superfici America and IMECA is helping cabinet shops, millwork manufacturers, and finishing professionals overcome common production challenges and prepare for the future of automated finishing.From labor shortages and production bottlenecks to the growing demand for consistent, high-quality finishes, this episode dives into how the right combination of technology, coatings knowledge, distribution support, and industry relationships can help shops reach their long-term goals.You’ll also hear insights on how automation is becoming more accessible for shops of all sizes, why strong distributor partnerships matter, and how companies like IMECA are helping customers stay ahead in a rapidly evolving woodworking and finishing industry.In this episode, we discuss:• The growing partnership between Superfici America and IMECA• Why automation is becoming essential in modern finishing operations• Common bottlenecks in sanding, application, and drying processes• How distributors help customers navigate finishing technology• Why smaller shops are beginning to adopt automation• The importance of service, support, and long-term industry partnershipsWhether you’re a cabinet shop owner, millwork manufacturer, finishing operator, or coatings professional, this episode offers practical insights into the future of finishing and how your business can grow with the right partners.To learn more about Superfici America and connect with a local representative, visit:https://www.superficiamerica.com/salesteamSubscribe to the Finishing Touch Podcast for more conversations with experts across the automated finishing and woodworking industries.

Keeping your automated finishing machine running starts with having the right parts, the right plan, and the right people. In this episode of the Finishing Touch Podcast, host Bret Johnson sits down with Tommy Harris, Parts & Customer Service Manager at Superfici America, to break down everything operators and maintenance teams need to know about machine maintenance, spare parts inventory, and minimizing costly downtime.Tommy covers which critical components every finishing operation should stock on-site, why OEM parts always outperform aftermarket alternatives, and how to build a preventive maintenance schedule tailored to your machine's actual runtime. He also shares real-world examples of what happens when the wrong filters, bearings, or parts are used and how small shortcuts can turn into expensive repairs.You'll also get an inside look at what's new at Superfici America, including expanded parts inventory, an improved customer support ticketing system, and an upcoming service contract program launching in 2026.Whether you're a seasoned finishing professional or new to running automated equipment, this episode is packed with practical advice to protect your machine and your bottom line.🔧 Questions or need support? Reach the Superfici America team at [email protected] or visit superficiamerica.com

In this episode of The Finishing Touch Podcast, we welcome Andrew Galgano of Manhattan Laminates and discuss an exciting collaboration with ISP Millwork to develop what will become the first UV finishing line on Long Island, New York.Recorded inside the Superfici America lab in Concord, North Carolina, this episode takes you behind the scenes of a full UV finishing trial here equipment, coatings, and technical expertise came together to create a system designed to:✔ Dramatically shorten dry and cure times✔ Increase production throughput✔ Expand product offerings✔ Deliver high-gloss polyester finishes faster✔ Help a millwork manufacturer grow their businessWe tested UV polyester sealers and topcoats, water-based UV acrylic coatings, and explored gel or B-stage curing techniques to optimize film build and sanding performance. The result? Multi-coat systems cured in minutes, not days, allowing projects that traditionally take a week to move toward completion in as little as two days.This partnership between Superfici America (finishing equipment), Manhattan Laminates (coating supplier), and premium coating manufacturers like ICA and AcromaPro demonstrates how collaboration can unlock new capabilities for architectural millwork and high-gloss door production in the competitive New York market.We also highlight the importance of technical support from in-lab testing to on-site service and how responsive support plays a key role in long-term customer success.If you're interested in:UV curing technologyHigh-gloss polyester finishingWater-based UV coatingsFlatline spray systemsIncreasing efficiency in wood finishingReducing production bottlenecksThis episode is packed with practical insight.👉 For more information about UV finishing systems and how Superfici America can help improve your production process, visit: https://www.superficiamerica.com/salesteam#UVFinishing #WoodFinishing #SuperficiAmerica #Millwork #HighGloss #PolyesterFinish #WaterBasedCoatings #IndustrialFinishing #ArchitecturalWoodwork #ManufacturingInnovation #FlatlineFinishing

Join us for a special episode of the Finishing Touch Podcast, recorded live from the AWFS Fair in Las Vegas, Nevada! Host Bret Johnson sits down with Tony McAuley, Superfici America’s Canadian Area Sales Manager, to dive into the world of automated finishing.In this episode, Tony shares his journey from hardwood flooring to becoming a finishing expert, offering unique insights into the Canadian market and how it aligns with European trends. We discuss key challenges like labor shortages, inconsistent quality, and how automation is transforming the industry. Tony also breaks down how Superfici’s cutting-edge solutions and top-notch support system help customers stay ahead, plus addresses common concerns about automation and job security.Key Topics:Tony’s background and passion for finishingChallenges driving automation in the Canadian marketHow Superfici supports customers with service and diagnosticsDebunking myths about automation replacing jobsTips for operators transitioning to automated systemsWhether you’re a seasoned pro or new to the automated finishing world, this episode is packed with practical insights and industry trends to help you elevate your craft.Stay ahead in automated finishing—subscribe for more expert interviews and industry tips.#AWFSFair #AutomatedFinishing #SuperficiAmerica #FinishingTouchPodcast #Woodworking #IndustryInsights

In this episode, host Bret Johnson dives into one of the most fundamental topics in automated finishing the five major variables that affect film thickness. Whether you’re a seasoned coating professional or just getting started in finishing operations, this episode will help you understand how to fine-tune your process for consistent, high-quality results.👉 In this episode, we cover:00:39 - What is a wet film gauge?01:12 - Five Points of Film Thickness01:24 - Tip size — How orifice and fan pattern influence coating output04:14 - Line Speed — Balancing production rate with finish quality06:51 - Reciprocator Speed — Achieving optimal overlap and avoiding striping08:56 - Fluid Pressure — Managing coating flow for smooth, defect-free surfaces10:47 - Air Pressure — Fine-tuning atomization for ideal coverage12:56 - Know the consequences of your changes.💡 Key takeaways:Learn how each variable interacts with the others to produce the perfect finish. Discover best practices for testing and dialing in settings in the lab. Understand how Superfici’s automated systems help maintain consistency across production lines.📞 Need support or want to test your setup? Visit our website or contact Superfici America support [email protected] For tools and SWAG, email [email protected] — we’ll even send you a mil gauge to help you get started!🧰 Resources & More: Visit superficiamerica.com for tutorials, support videos, and equipment details.#SuperficiAmerica #AutomatedFinishing #FinishingTouchPodcast #Coatings #FilmThickness #SprayTechnology #IndustrialFinishing #WoodFinishing #Manufacturing

In this special episode of the Finishing Touch Podcast by Superfici America, recorded live at the AWFS Fair in Las Vegas! Join host Bret Johnson as he sits down with Tom Elliott, Northeast Area Sales Manager, to dive into the world of automated finishing.In this episode, Tom shares his 30+ years of experience in the woodworking and finishing industry, from selling machinery in New England to leading innovative projects with Superfici America. Discover how automation transforms small to mid-sized shops, learn about unique applications beyond woodworking (like aerospace and defense coatings), and hear how Superfici customizes solutions for even the tightest spaces.Key Highlights:Tom's journey from woodworking machinery to automated finishing expertise.How automation boosts consistency and productivity for businesses new to the technology.Creative solutions for small shops with limited space. Superfici’s approach to tackling specialized coating applications for metals, composites, and more.Whether you're a seasoned pro or a new operator, this episode is packed with insights to elevate your finishing game.#FinishingTouchPodcast #SuperficiAmerica #AWFSFair #AutomatedFinishing #Woodworking 🔗 Visit us at www.superficiamerica.com for more information.

In this episode of The Finishing Touch Podcast from Superfici America, host Bret Johnson breaks down six of the most common myths about automated finishing. Learn how modern systems are flexible enough for small shops, make quick color changes simple, and deliver consistent results even in small-batch production.Discover how flatline reciprocating sprayers handle stains and shaker doors, how to achieve perfect edge coverage, and why today’s automation technology is easier to use and maintain than ever before.Visit www.superficiamerica.com for tutorials, product information or to reach out to your Superfici America Sales Representative.#SuperficiAmerica #FinishingTouchPodcast #AutomatedFinishing #Woodworking #Manufacturing #SurfaceFinishing

Join host Bret Johnson for a special episode of the Finishing Touch podcast, recorded live at the AWFS Fair in Las Vegas, Nevada!In this episode, we dive into the world of automated finishing with Dean Sager, Southeast Area Sales Manager at Superfici America. With 20 years of experience, Dean shares his journey from SCM Group to Superfici, insights on transitioning from hand spraying to automated flatline finishing, and how automation helps small businesses boost consistency and compete effectively.Learn about the benefits of flatline finishing, real-world customer success stories, and why repeat customers trust Superfici for their finishing solutions. Whether you're a seasoned pro or new to the industry, this episode is packed with practical tips and expert advice to elevate your finishing game!🌐 Visit Superfici America: www.superficiamerica.com #FinishingTouchPodcast #AutomatedFinishing #SuperficiAmerica #AWFSFair #FlatlineFinishing #Woodworking #FinishingSolutions #Coatings #SmallBusinessTips #Manufacturing

This is The Finishing Touch Podcast from Superfici America, hosted by Bret Johnson! In this episode, we dive deep into the three critical bottlenecks in automated finishing: sanding, spraying, and drying. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a new operator, this episode is packed with expert insights and practical tips to optimize your finishing process and boost efficiency.What You'll Learn:• Identifying Bottlenecks: Discover the telltale signs of bottlenecks, like work piling up, idle time, or customer delivery delays.• Sanding Deep Dive: Explore whitewood and inter-coat sanding, different sander types (wide belt, profile, orbital, planetary, and brushing machines), and how automation reduces labor and improves consistency.• Spraying Efficiency: Learn how automated spraying enhances transfer efficiency, reduces material costs, and supports faster production with consistent results.•Drying Solutions: Understand the stages of drying (dry to touch vs. fully cured), the role of ovens (laminar, jet air, IR, UV curing), and how to cut drying times from hours to minutes.• Practical Tips: Get advice on grit levels, eliminating hand sanding, and choosing the right drying solution for your shop.Why It Matters: By addressing these bottlenecks, you can streamline your workflow, reduce rework, and deliver high-quality finishes faster. Bret also shares how testing in Superfici America’s lab can help you find the perfect solution for your specific needs.Stay Connected:• Visit our website for tutorial videos and more resources: www.SuperficiAmerica.com• Contact your Superfici America sales rep to elevate your finishing process. https://bit.ly/3IRdcWU• Have Questions? Send them our way, and we’ll address them in future episodes as we debunk myths and explore the latest trends in automated finishing. [email protected]#FinishingTouchPodcast #AutomatedFinishing #Woodworking #Sanding #Spraying #Drying #SuperficiAmerica #BottlenecksofFinishing

In this special episode of the Finishing Touch Podcast, host Bret Johnson sits down with Gustavo Gaidzinski, Superfici America’s Molding Line Product Manager, to talk all things molding finishing automation. From his lifelong experience in the industry to the differences between molding spraying and reciprocating spraying, Gustavo shares insights on high-speed production, automation trends, gesso use, and tips for boosting quality and efficiency.Whether you’re hand spraying today or already running automated lines, you’ll learn practical ways to improve your finishing process and stay ahead in the industry.Topics Covered:Molding spraying vs. reciprocating sprayingHigh-speed production (up to 300 FPM)Gesso use & misconceptionsAutomation for profile finishingAvoiding jams and downtimeIndustry trends toward fully linked linesLearn more about moulding automation at: www.superficiamerica.com/mouldingsprayer#FinishingTouchPodcast #SuperficiAmerica #AutomatedFinishing #WoodworkingIndustry #MoldingLines

Welcome to the Finishing Touch Podcast from Superfici America! In this episode, host Bret Johnson is joined by our lab technician Bryan Mitchem to break down the basics of automated finishing. Whether you're new to the industry or a seasoned pro, this episode is packed with practical tips to elevate your finishing game.We dive into:• The importance of prep work: Why proper sanding (whitewood and primer) is critical for adhesion and aesthetics.• Key bottlenecks in finishing: Sanding, spraying, and drying—and how automation can solve them.• Water-based vs. solvent-based coatings: Differences, cleanup, and choosing the right one for your project.• Spray gun types: Airless, air-assisted, and HVLP—when and why to use each.• Mil gauge basics: How to measure coating thickness for perfect results.• Maintenance schedules: Keeping your equipment in top shape for consistent performance.• Why automation matters: Boost throughput, ensure consistency, and reduce manual labor.Ready to streamline your finishing process? Visit our website at www.superficiamerica.com for more tutorials, resources, and to connect with our team! #AutomatedFinishing #Woodworking #FinishingTips #SuperficiAmerica #Coatings #Sanding #SprayGuns #WoodFinishing🔔 Subscribe for more insights, and let us know your finishing questions in the comments below!

Live from AWFS Fair 2025: Michael Anderson on Midwest Finishing Solutions In this special episode of the Finishing Touch podcast, host Bret Johnson sits down with Michael Anderson, Midwest Regional Manager for Superfici America. With over 35 years of experience in the finishing industry, Michael shares insights on tailoring solutions for customers, tackling labor challenges, and why custom automation is key—especially for the window and door market.Topics covered:The unique needs of Midwest manufacturersWhy small shops can’t afford not to automateCustom design flexibility from Superfici AmericaIndustry misconceptions about automated finishingStay ahead in automated finishing—subscribe for more expert interviews and industry tips.#FinishingTouchPodcast #SuperficiAmerica #AWFS2025 #AutomatedFinishing #WoodworkingIndustry

In this special episode of The Finishing Touch Podcast, recorded live at AWFS Las Vegas, Superfici America's Bret Johnson sits down with Customer Service Engineer Dillon Glenn and Sames Product Manager Mike Malavolti. They dive into the importance of custom fluid delivery systems, how their partnership drives turnkey coating solutions, and how they tackle real-world challenges like short pot life in urethanes.🎧 Don’t miss this expert conversation on innovation, collaboration, and delivering results in automated finishing. 🔗 Learn more: superficiamerica.com#AutomatedFinishing #FluidDeliverySystems #SuperficiAmerica #Sames #IndustrialCoatings #AWFS2025

In this newly rebranded launch episode, host Bret Johnson sits down with Matt Lowe, the newest member of the Superfici America sales team and the inspiration behind our Coating Connections program. With over 15 years in the coatings industry, Matt shares his journey from third-shift tech rep to West Coast Account Manager—and how collaboration between paint reps and equipment specialists is key to customer success.Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out in the world of automated finishing, this podcast offers real talk, expert tips, and behind-the-scenes insight into how Superfici is helping customers optimize their finishing processes.📍 We're recording live from AWFS in Las Vegas—stop by Booth #1771 to meet Matt and the team!👉 In this episode:The story behind our podcast’s new directionMatt’s unique journey into the coatings worldHow Superfici collaborates with paint vendors for customer successA real-life customer story showing teamwork in actionWhat types of businesses Superfici servesAnd a few personal shoutouts from Matt!📞 Ready to take the next step in your automated finishing process? Contact your local Superfici America rep or visit our website to learn more.🔔 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the bell to stay updated on future episodes of The Finishing Touch.#FinishingTouchPodcast #SuperficiAmerica #AutomatedFinishing #CoatingsIndustry #Woodworking #AWFS2025 #SurfaceFinishing #IndustrialCoatings #PaintAndFinish

In this video, Bret Johnson from Superfici America is joined by Michael Smith and Joe Pilon from Renner Wood Coatings to run lab tests on a coating designed for MDF. The goal was to evaluate a one-primer, one-topcoat system that reduces MDF "telegraphing" and dries quickly using forced curing.They also tested the product’s suitability for automated applications, in preparation for its demonstration at the AWFS trade show in Las Vegas. The conversation highlights the growing trend of automation in small to mid-sized shops, emphasizing how finishing is becoming the new starting point for boosting production efficiency.Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the bell icon so you don’t miss future updates, product demos, and insights from the Superfici America Lab! Have questions about automated finishing? Visit our website or contact your sales rep today. superficiamerica.com#WoodCoatings #MDFFinishing #Automation #RennerWoodCoatings #SuperficiAmerica #AWFS2025 #IndustrialFinishing #WoodworkingInnovation #FinishingSolutions #CNCtoFinishLine

In this episode of Coating Connections, Bret Johnson, Lab Manager from Superfici America teams up with Matt Serra and Jason Dixon from Milesi Wood Coatings to showcase innovative wood finishing technologies. They explore various water-based and solvent-based coatings, advanced automated spray equipment, and efficient drying systems that improve finish quality and speed up production. Learn how these turnkey solutions help streamline finishing operations, reduce waste, and create a cleaner, safer work environment. Discover the benefits of polyurethane coatings, precise application control, and remote machine monitoring in modern wood finishing. For more info, visit superficiamerica.com.#automatedfinishing #woodworking #woodfinishes #milesiwoodcoatings #superficiamerica #helpingyoufinishbetter

In this episode of Coating Connections, we sit down with Bret Johnson, Lab Manager at Superfici America, and Scott Hart, owner of Hartley Group and distributor of Icro coatings.Together, they dive into the vital role of partnerships between coatings companies and equipment manufacturers in achieving top-tier finishing results. From trends in the coatings industry—like the increasing demand for advanced stain systems—to real-world examples of automated spraying on shaker-style cabinet doors, this conversation is packed with insight for finishing professionals.Scott also shares his thoughts on the innovative Superfici DryVault batch oven, highlighting how its versatility can benefit finishing operations of any size. Whether you're in coatings, woodworking, or finishing operations, this episode offers valuable takeaways on achieving consistency, quality, and efficiency.For more information on our products or to schedule a lab test, visit our website: superficiamerica.com #CoatingConnections #SuperficiAmerica #IcroCoatings #WoodFinishing #AutomatedFinishing #SprayTechnology #ShakerCabinets #DryVault #WoodworkingIndustry #IndustrialFinishing #BatchOven #CabinetMaking #HartleyGroup

At Superfici America, we’re all about partnership, innovation, and pushing boundaries to better serve our customers. Recently, we had the pleasure of welcoming Bill Fiorillo from Alcea Coatings to our lab for a collaborative hands-on session and it was a productive and insightful few days.

At Superfici America, we’re always looking to create meaningful connections in the coatings industry—and our latest lab session with Bryan Worsley from DSI/Hood Distribution is a great example of what happens when trusted brands and proven technologies come together.Bryan joined us for a day of hands-on testing, showcasing products from the ML Campbell line—a long-standing staple in the wood finishing world—and the Sayerlack brand, which DSI recently began distributing.

Welcome to the First Episode of Coating Connections! We will dive into the world of coatings and finishes with a spotlight on the innovative leaders shaping the industry. Join us as we explore the Superfici America testing center in Charlotte, NC—a hub where coating suppliers, finishing experts, and industry innovators come together to share insights, test new products and assist customers in achieving the ultimate finish for their products. In this debut episode, Superfici America's Lab Manager, Bret Johnson works with Covestro's Head of Automotive and Industrial Coatings, North America, Aaron Lockhart to test some new coatings.