Our Testing data
When it comes to protecting your home, traditional exterior paint may offer a thinner protective layer than coating systems like Rhino Shield. You need something that’s proven to withstand the elements, keep your home looking great, and reduce maintenance over the years. Rhino Shield is presented here as a coating system with published testing in several performance categories. Designed to be more than just paint, Rhino Shield is a exterior coating system that’s been tested in areas including wind-driven rain, mold/mildew resistance, solar reflectance, adhesion, and fire rating.
This article takes you through the extensive testing process Rhino Shield undergoes—from tests for water resistance and insulation to durability and fire safety—so you can review the types of testing referenced for the product. Each test not only ensures Rhino Shield meets industry standards but meets the referenced standards and includes the results cited on this page, providing published test data that buyers can review alongside warranty and product information.
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water intrusion testing
purpose
This test evaluates Rhino Shield’s ability to resist wind-driven rain under the tested conditions..
process
Rhino Shield-coated surfaces are mounted in a test chamber, where they’re subjected to a powerful spray of water while high air pressure is applied. This simulates the conditions of a severe storm, where wind-driven rain impacts your home’s exterior. The test runs continuously for several hours to ensure the coating can withstand long exposure to water and pressure.
results
Rhino Shield passed the test. No water made its way through the coating, no water penetration was reported in the tested panels. This test followed the ASTM D6904-03(22) standard, which is the recognized method for testing how well exterior coatings hold up to wind-driven rain on masonry (like concrete walls or brick).
mold and mildew resistance
mold testing
This test checks Rhino Shield’s resistance to mold, mildew, and algae growth, which can affect the appearance and maintenance needs of exterior surfaces. Mold and mildew not only create unsightly stains but can contribute to surface deterioration and maintenance issues over time. A coating that effectively resists these growths helps maintain cleaner exterior surfaces and potentially lower cleaning frequency, especially in humid climates where mold issues are common.
mold testing
results
After 28 days in a warm, humid, spore-rich environment, Rhino Shield showed no visible mold or mildew growth. This outcome is significant because it indicates that no visible mold or mildew growth was reported on the tested samples during the test period. Most surfaces would start to show visible signs of mold or mildew within days in these conditions, as fungi like Aspergillus niger and Aureobasidium pullulans can spread rapidly. However, Rhino Shield’s formulation includes biocides and materials that includes ingredients intended to resist fungal growth on the coating surface.
why is it important?
In a climate like Florida’s, where heat and humidity are almost year-round, mold and mildew are constant concerns. Homes in Florida are especially prone to these issues, with dampness providing the perfect environment for mold growth on exterior surfaces. The ability of Rhino Shield to resist mold and mildew in such extreme testing conditions suggests relevance for humid climates like Florida, which may reduce cleaning or maintenance needs over time. This resistance helps Florida homeowners maintain a clean and healthy exterior while avoiding costly upkeep and helping reduce exterior surface issues associated with mold and mildew growth.
adhesion strength testing
This test measures Rhino Shield’s adhesion strength to surfaces like wood and concrete, measuring how strongly the coating bonds to the tested surfaces. Strong adhesion is one factor that supports coating durability, especially in harsh climates where weaker coatings often fail. Rhino Shield’s strong adhesion may reduce the likelihood of premature coating failure, providing a long-lasting, protective finish that resists environmental stresses.
Process
Rhino Shield is applied to wood and concrete surfaces, and a device measures the force needed to pull the coating away from the surface. Rhino Shield achieved adhesion results of 567 psi on wood and 533 psi on concrete. These numbers indicate that the coating showed higher measured adhesion in the results cited here, indicating strong bond strength under the test method used.
Why is this important for your home?
Adhesion strength is a fundamental factor in a coating’s durability because it determines how well the coating sticks to the surface and withstands environmental challenges. A strong bond suggests the coating can maintain bond strength under demanding conditions like extreme heat, cold, heavy rain, or high winds. If a coating lacks sufficient adhesion, it can start to peel, crack, or blister, especially under fluctuating temperatures and humidity levels, leaving the surface vulnerable to water intrusion, UV damage, and eventual structural issues.
Good adhesion also plays a critical role in protecting against wear and tear. As surfaces naturally expand and contract with temperature changes, coatings with strong adhesion can flex with the surface without breaking away. This resilience reduces the need for frequent repainting or repairs, which are often necessary when coatings with weaker adhesion degrade over time.
For homeowners, strong adhesion means a longer-lasting finish that maintains its appearance and protective qualities over the years. This may help reduce repainting or repair frequency, that may provide long-term value for homeowners focused on longevity.
Results
Rhino Shield demonstrated impressive adhesion strength, with 567 psi on wood and 533 psi on concrete. These results mean that Rhino Shield can withstand a force of 567 pounds per square inch (psi) on wood and 533 psi on concrete before it begins to separate from the surface. For context, some exterior paints may test lower, depending on the product and test method, so Rhino Shield’s higher adhesion strength indicates a significantly stronger bond.
This level of adhesion means Rhino Shield may be less prone to peeling, cracking, or blistering when properly applied, even in challenging weather conditions. It will remain firmly attached to the surface, supporting long-term coating performance. High adhesion is particularly valuable in areas prone to extreme weather, where temperature swings and humidity can cause weaker coatings to fail. For homeowners, these results reflect Rhino Shield’s enhanced durability, reducing the need for frequent maintenance and ensuring a resilient, long-lasting exterior.
solar reflectance testing
Purpose
These tests measure Rhino Shield’s ability to reflect sunlight (solar reflectance) and release absorbed heat (thermal emittance), both of which impact your home’s energy efficiency.
process
Rhino Shield’s coated surfaces are exposed to simulated sunlight to measure how much of the light is reflected. The matte finish reflects 83.7%of sunlight, and the satin finish reflects 85.2%, showing high measured reflectance in the reported test results. In the thermal emittance test, both finishes scored 0.90, meaning they effectively release any heat they absorb.
results
Rhino Shield’s coating was tested to see how well it reflects sunlight and manages heat. The matte finish reflects 83.7%of sunlight, and the satin finish reflects 85.2%, meaning the coating bounces most of the sun’s rays off your home instead of absorbing them. Higher reflectance may reduce exterior heat absorption by preventing heat buildup on the exterior walls.
In addition to reflecting sunlight, Rhino Shield’s coating also scores 0.90 in thermal emittance, which means it effectively releases any heat it does absorb. Instead of trapping heat, the coating lets it escape, further helping to keep your home at a comfortable temperature.
For homeowners, these results mean Rhino Shield helps reduce the amount of heat that enters your home, which may contribute to lower cooling demand in some homes. This makes Rhino Shield a coating with tested solar reflectance and thermal emittance values.
why is this important
Both Rhino Shield and TexCote emphasize environmental benefits. TexCote incorporates recycled materials into its coatings and has been recognized by LEED™ professionals, making it a more sustainable option. Rhino Shield, while not heavily marketed on its environmental credentials, it is described as complying with applicable EPA-related requirements, offers a product that is marketed as a longer-lasting coating option than traditional paint, reducing the need for frequent recoating and lowering overall environmental impact.
fire resistance testing
purpose
This test checks Rhino Shield’s resistance to fire by measuring its flame spread and smoke development, both important factors for home safety.
testing process
Rhino Shield-coated panels were exposed to an open flame to measure how quickly flames spread across the coating and the amount of smoke it produced. In this test, Rhino Shield received a Class A fire rating under the referenced test standard, with a Flame Spread Index of 5 and a Smoke-Developed Index of 0. For reference, materials with a Class A rating have flame spread scores of 25 or below, indicating they are highly resistant to fire spread. Performance varies by product, and not all coatings carry the same fire classification, often scoring much higher in flame spread and smoke production.
With a Flame Spread Index of 5, Rhino Shield showed a Flame Spread Index of 5 in the referenced test, providing valuable extra time in the event of a fire. Additionally, the Smoke-Developed Index of 0 means Rhino Shield showed a Smoke-Developed Index of 0 in the referenced test, minimizing harmful emissions. This level of fire resistance may be relevant for homeowners who prioritize fire-related performance, especially compared to conventional coatings that lack this protective quality.
why is this important
A Class A fire rating provides a high level of safety, particularly valuable for areas at higher risk of wildfires or for homeowners concerned with overall fire safety. Rhino Shield’s fire resistance may be a consideration in evaluating fire-related performance characteristics, helping protect your home and which some homeowners may value.
Reviewed By: Ryan Adams | Owner of Rhino Shield of Florida
FAQ’s:
LoreRhino Shield has been extensively third-party tested for elongation, tensile strength, adhesion strength, solar reflectance, thermal emittance, solar reflective index (SRI), fire resistance, mold/mildew/algae resistance, water intrusion/wind-driven rain resistance, salt spray resistance, vapor permeance, and water swelling. Overall, the results indicate it is designed to provide durable, energy-efficient, and long-lasting exterior protection in harsh conditions.
Yes. Rhino Shield’s results come from independent third-party labs—including Future Labs, MicroStar Lab, DRM, and Ace Laboratories—using ASTM-standard testing. This outside verification helps validate claims around durability, adhesion, energy efficiency, and mold resistance, adding credibility and transparency to the product’s performance data.
Rhino Shield utilizes a comprehensive set of recognized ASTM (American Society for Testing and Materials) standards to validate its performance and durability. These benchmarks, which include ASTM D638, ASTM D4541, ASTM C1549-16, ASTM C1371-15, ASTM E1980, ASTM E84, ASTM D5590, ASTM D6904, ASTM B117, ASTM D1653, and ASTM D471, provide verified data on the coating's strength, adhesion, heat reflection, fire safety, and resistance to mold, wind-driven rain, and salt. By meeting these rigorous industry standards, Rhino Shield offers a transparent, science-based solution for long-term home protection.
LoThe Water Intrusion Test (ASTM D6904-03(22)) proves that Rhino Shield can act as a robust barrier against water penetration, even under the force of severe wind-driven rain. By successfully blocking water in a high-pressure 24-hour test, it demonstrates the coating's ability to help prevent leaks, mold, and structural rot in storm-prone regions.
The claim of "no visible mold or mildew growth" is based on ASTM D5590 testing, which confirms that Rhino Shield’s coating—containing biocides and a breathable ceramic-elastomeric formulation—inhibits the growth of fungi like Aspergillus niger and Aureobasidium pullulans. In real-world environments, this means the coating resists the unsightly stains and surface damage common in humid climates.
