Is the painter to blame when a paint job fails to meet expectations? Sometimes yes, but not at all times. A low-quality paint job is like a sore thumb; it sticks out no matter the disguise we try to put up.
Well, let’s assume that it all starts with the paint. Yep, the quality of paint you select for your home will undoubtedly have a bearing on the paintwork. That’s why it’s critical to kick off a project with a good quality of paint – that’s what Surepaint is all about. But first, you need to understand the various types of paint you can use.
The following factors will enlighten you on the major types available and their application.
- Oil-based Paint
The core elements of all paints are pigments, binders, liquids, and additives. Pigments lend color, while liquids(solvents) create a suspension so that you apply the paint on a surface. Additives deliver unique qualities that make paint ideal for specific applications.
Oil-based paints are made of alkyd or linseed oil. Alkyd resins act as binding agents to create the paint film and have a wide application in the paint industry because of their easy application in various environmental conditions.
Oil-based paint has the edge over water-based paint as it renders a smoother, exceptional finish. With that in mind, oil-based paint is ideal for brushing or rolling on outdoor surfaces. It also tends to be cheaper than water-based paint, making it convenient.
The downside of oil-based paints includes a more extended drying time. The implication is that you might have more project downtime when dealing with oil-based paint. On a positive note, trading some extra hours or days to allow oil-based paint to cure ensures years of vibrancy.
Unfortunately, once the project is dusted, you might find that sprucing up your paint brushes might require paint thinner or other harsh chemicals. Using oil-based paint also makes it necessary to wear a respirator to ward off the toxic fumes from the paint.
- Water-based Paint
Water-based paint is easy to apply- no need for a pre-treatment to get started. Water (a solvent) is what differentiates water-based paints from the alternatives. Other ingredients in water-based paint include butyl methacrylate and methyl.
It also dries up faster than oil-based paint, allowing you to cover more wall space with water-based or latex paint. Cleanup of water-based paint is a cinch- usually, water and soap are all you need.
Once the paint dries, expect an elastic finish that resists cracking. Therefore, water-based paint is ideal for freshening up the look of your indoor space. The fact that it also resists fading or yellowing means your walls hold up well over time. Consequently, you don’t have to worry about applying another coat now and then.
Water-based alternatives do not give off harsh fumes like oil-based paint. What about availability? Water-based paint is available compared to oil-based alternatives, although this is debatable.
The primary downside of water-based paint is that it gives your wall the average Jane look. If you’re after punchy notes and vividness, you might need to look elsewhere. The paint also tends to separate into layers when painted walls are exposed to dampness, making it unsuitable for bathrooms or other surfaces exposed to water.
- Enamel Paint
Have you ever shopped at a paint store and chanced upon a paint can labeled “enamel”? Surprisingly, enamel’s qualities are what define it best: its ability to dry to a hard finish that holds up well over time or withstands the rigors of daily life.
In technical terms, enamel paints are created from alkyd resins- these are derived from a combination of polyester resin and fatty acids creating flexible coatings that adhere to various surfaces.
If you are an avid hobbyist or like to dabble in artistic projects, you’ve probably used enamel paint to add a pop of vivid color to your crafts and ensure longevity. In the past, enamel paints were a preserve of oil-based paints. However, enamel paints have widened their scope of application to include water-based paints. Enamel paint adheres to surfaces such as:
- Wood
- Stainless steel
- Plastic
- Concrete
- Ceramic
- Glass
The versatility of enamel paint underscores its suitability for a wide range of projects, big or small. You can find enamel paint in spray bottles or cans, making it ideal for giving surfaces a glossy look that stands the test of time. So, if you need to brighten up the exterior of your home or the surfaces you use, oil-based enamel paint will get the job done.
Bottom Line
We hope these expert tips will set you up for success on your next project. By selecting the right paint type for the job, you will be better poised to avoid costly and time-consuming mistakes in the future.
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