A Beginners Guide to the Different Types of Paints Part 1







Painting is a fun and relatively easy activity to do. You may be planning to paint something for some time now. 

 

I know you are excited about it, but before you start, are you aware that there are different types of paints? Don't worry, ka-Triton, because we got you a beginner's guide to the different types of paints!

 

We shall explore the many types of paints in this series of articles. And in this section, we'll discuss the most common types of paints used by individuals ranging from Do-It-Yourself enthusiasts to construction professionals.

 

Let's start.

 

 

Enamel

 

Enamel paints are solvent-based (a.k.a. oil-based paints) paints that dry to a hard glossy glass-like finish on wood and metal surfaces.


Enamel Paints like Triton Quick Drying Enamel are used to paint wooden furniture.

 

Painters use enamel paints to coat properly primed metal or wooden furniture, appliances, and accessories. Enamel paints can be applied using a paintbrush, roller, or spray gun.


 

Enamel paints are also combined with epoxy and polyurethane to create protective coatings for industrial facilities.

 

Fun fact: Enamel paint is named after genuine enamel. A molten glass coating that gives vehicles, appliances, and furniture a high-gloss finish. However, the similarities end with their aesthetic appeal because enamel paints do not contain glass.

 

 


Acrylic

 

Acrylic Paints are chemical-based paints made of pigment suspended in an acrylic resin and acrylic polymer solution. Due to their chemical composition, they become water-resistant and more elastic when dried.

 

These characteristics make them ideal for painting tiny objects like toys, school projects, and other small crafts.

  

An important note: Acrylic paint is more difficult to clean, so taking extra precautions when painting can go a long way.

 

 


Latex

 

Latex paints are water-based paints made with acrylic resin. It is easy to use, quick to dry, easy to clean, and less expensive than other paints. On top of that, latex paints are relatively safer to use because it produces fewer fumes.

 

Reminder: Use proper ventilation regardless of the type of paint you are using. Usually, Latex is commonly used to paint properly primed concrete, bricks, plaster, stucco, and properly primed wood.


Some latex paints like Odour Fresh Anti-Bacterial Latex Paint are perfect for interiors.


You can apply this paint using a paintbrush, roller, or spray.

 

 


Elastomeric

 

Elastomeric Paint is one of the go-to exterior paints because of one notable feature: water resistance. Elastomeric paints create a watertight barrier between your walls and the hard rain that can penetrate the concrete and cause rebar corrosion.

 

Compared to other wall paints, elastomeric paints last considerably longer because they are stronger, thicker, and more flexible. However, to achieve these benefits, you have to invest more on a budget in purchasing elastomeric paints because they come at a higher price than any ordinary latex paints for walls. So always consider your budget when you are planning to paint your exteriors with Elastomeric Paints. 


Painters use elastomeric paints to paint exterior concrete, masonry, stucco, floors, and bricks. You can use a paintbrush and roller to apply this.





Elastomeric Paints such as Duraseal Elastomeric Paint are best used on exterior concrete surfaces.

 

 

Epoxy

 

Let me first define what epoxy is. Epoxy is a thermosetting polymer used as adhesives for repairs like epoxy glue. Sometimes, epoxy is mixed with solvents and other materials to form epoxy paints like epoxy primers, epoxy enamels, epoxy floor coatings, etc.

 

Epoxy Paints are the most durable paints in the market today. Some epoxy paints like Triton Toughcoat Heavy Duty 100% Solid Epoxy Floor Coating lasts for 4 years and can withstand 10,000-12,000 psi of compressive force, has a tensile strength of 3,000-5,000, and a maximum flexural strength of 6,000-9,000 psi. Because of these qualities, engineers and contractors pick epoxy paints to coat machines, floors, hangars, and other facilities in their industrial projects.


Indoor Parking Areas use the different colors of epoxy paints to designate certain areas for certain uses.


Epoxy Paints usually come in 2 components: base and catalyst/hardener. One won’t work without the other.

The painting system to apply epoxy paints on surfaces are expensive and complex so find an expert to do the job.

 



That’s it for today, ka-Triton! Thanks for reaching this part of the article! Now you’ll go back to your day armed with new knowledge.

Stay Tuned for the Second Part of Know Your Paints on July 15, 2021!


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