Emulsion paints are so called because they are a base mixture of oil and water - a simple example of an everyday emulsion is mayonnaise as it uses a base mixture of oil and egg.

Interior Painting with Emulsion Paints

If applied correctly, emulsion paints can provide a smooth and durable finish that can transform your living spaces. 

 

  • Durable and smooth finish
  • Available in a wide range of colours, with the main two finishes being,
  • Matt finish
  • Silk finish 

Exterior Painting with Emulsion Paints

Most people only think of emulsion paint as a paint coating for use on internal walls, but given the explanation at the start of this article, water based exterior 'masonry paints' are in fact also  emulsion paints.

 

The oil and water mix in an Emulsion paint is what's called the "binder".

 

Next the pigment is added to give the colour to the paint.

 

This binder and pigment solution is then mixed with more water (known as the "solvent") to make it easier to spread, and also ensure it dries nice and flat.

Then "extenders" are added to improve adhesion and strengthen the finished paint film.

 

Lastly a small amount of what are termed "additives" are added - there are a multitude of "additives" depending on where the Emulsion paint is designed to be applied. 

 

For a simple example, a mould inhibitor may be added for an emulsion paint designed to be used in areas of high humidity, such as bathrooms and kitchens.

 

Just talking about a basic, conventional Emulsion paint commonly used on interior walls and ceilings;  percentages of the ingredients are generally as follows;

Binder = 14%.
Pigment = 25%
Solvent = 44%
Extenders =12%
Additives = 5%

 

An exterior water based masonry paint is also an Emulsion paint so very different additives are required.

"It's like watching paint dry"

Whilst this is a common derogatory term used to describe an uninteresting situation, the reality is that a lot is going  on beyond the scenes once that paint is on the wall.

 

Emulsion paints dry by a two stage process of chemistry known as "evaporation and coalescence"

 

Firstly the water content evaporates out of the mix, leaving everything else behind for the second stage: Coalescence

 

This stage involves the chemical binding together of the polymer droplets and their subsequent integration into a hard polymer matrix that acts as a binder for the pigment.

 

Trying to force dry an emulsion paint only speeds up the evaporation stage; but the quantity of water within a given quantity of paint (2.5/ 5/ 10 litres etc) is scientifically measured to ensure the coalescence occurs at the correct rate to leave a good, durable and smooth finish.

 

So by thinking it's a good idea to turn the heating up high or get the hair drier out because you want now!! is not such a good idea.

 

All that you're doing is upsetting the chemistry which will lead to a poor finish!

 

Despite a lot of todays so called 'influencers' (AKA 'comedians') there really is no race.

 

Take your time, achieve your best.