When evaluating the life cycle of a coating system, which factor is NOT considered?

When evaluating the life cycle of a coating system, the focus is primarily on the economic and performance-related aspects associated with the coating over time. Factors like initial cost, maintenance costs, and timing until the first maintenance coat is applied are critical in understanding the overall investment and longevity of the coating system.

Initial cost is significant as it represents the upfront investment required to apply the coating system. Maintenance costs during the life of the coating system are important because they can accumulate over time and impact the total cost of ownership. The time until the first maintenance coating is applied is also a vital factor, as it reflects the durability and performance of the coating, impacting its cost-effectiveness and the frequency of reapplication.

In contrast, color selection does not play a critical role in the economic evaluation of the life cycle of a coating system. While color may influence aesthetic preferences and potentially affect how a coating system interacts with environmental factors (like heat absorption), it does not directly relate to the cost or performance evaluations that are central to a life cycle analysis. Thus, it is not a determining factor in assessing the longevity or total cost of a coating system.