Paint is a pigmented liquid that dries to form a solid protective and decorative coating once it has been applied, and is widely used in building, fittings and decorating, art, and industry. It is structurally and aesthetically purposeful, such as moisture, UV rays, corrosion, and wear resistance.
There are several types of paints, based on solvent types and finish types, and are formulated with four main components: pigment, binder, solvent, and additives. Pigment to provide color and opacity, binder to provide adhesion and film formation, a solvent to control viscosity, and additives to increase performance properties. Typical paint surfaces include metal, concrete, plastic, fabric, wood, and masonry.
Here are the four main components of paint:
Pigments give a color and opacity to paint, as well as modify gloss. They are available both in natural and artificial varieties and fall into prime and extender categories. The strong covering and color pigments include titanium dioxide and iron oxides as prime pigments. Extender pigments like talc, mica and calcium carbonate increase the texture, strength and finish but do not alter the color much.
Pigment particles are present in binders, which later dry up to form the paint film. They define the resistance of the paint to water, chemicals, abrasion, and weather. The natural and artificial binders cater to different purposes. The typical materials are acrylic, alkyd, epoxy, vinyl acetate, oils, and resins such as phenolic and chlorinated rubber, which provide good adhesion and resistance.
The solvents maintain the paint in a liquid form that is easy to work with and ensure smooth coating due to control of viscosity. Water is the solvent in water-based paints, mineral spirits, and organic chemicals such as turpentine and acetone in oil-based paints. Solvers cause evaporation after application drying time, flow and general finish quality.
Additives are less than 5 percent of the paint, yet they are important in enhancing paint performance. They regulate the rate of drying, improve flow, and offer resistance to mould and microorganisms. The additives also eliminate foaming, settling, and rust. The more usual additives are thickeners, anti-foaming, UV stabilizers, fungicides, and bactericides, which guarantee the stability and quality of the paint.
Here are the three main types of paint based on solvent type:
Here are the five main types of Water-Based Paints
Latex paints are water-based paints, based on synthetic resins (usually vinyl or acrylic) and come in many varieties of finishing. It dries fast, emits low odor and is best suitable to apply in walls and ceilings, not on high traffic surfaces.
Acrylic paint is made of 100 percent water-based acrylic resin, providing high stability, color stability and resistance to moisture and ultraviolet light. It really works well in an outdoor application, but it is not at all advisable in places that need a textured or distressed look.
Chalk paint is solvent-free and made using fine powders such as calcium carbonate, and has a soft, ultra-matt finish to it. It sticks with little preparation and is therefore good with furniture and craftwork, but not in places that are going to get wet or run too much stress.
Milk paint is a natural water based paint consisting of casein and lime and gives a matte finish, which is slightly uneven, and is in demand due to its antique appearance. It adheres well to porous material such as raw wood but not well to a smooth surface unless bonding agents are added.
Water-based enamel incorporates acrylic or alkyd resins on a water-based base, supplying a rigid, shiny and resistant-to-stains finish. It is outstanding on cabinets, doors and trim, but it is not so good on large areas that require a softer, low-sheen or textured finish.
Here are the three main types of Water-Based Paints:
Alkyd paint is an oil-soluble paint, based on synthetic alkyd resin in mineral spirits. It is dried or left to set as hard and semi-gloss, or glossy. It is hard and chemical resistant, and well-suited to metal, wood, and trims, though it is not ideal on moisture-sensitive floors and counter surfaces.
Oil-based enamel involves natural or synthetically produced oils and provides a hard, glossy, and smooth finish. It gives good adhesion, resistance to stains, and a rich look. Its best use is in doors, cabinets, and in machinery, but not on rapid jobs, as it is slow drying.
Gloss oil paint has been made using oil-based binder and solvents, which provide a reflective, high-gloss paint. It provides better wearability and gives a deep color tone and defense. It is widely applied in decorative woodwork and metal surfaces, but not in an area where it is desired to be matte-looking.
Here are the four main types of Water-Based Paints:
Shellac-based paint contains natural resin suspended in alcohol; it dries smooth and glossy or satin finish. It prevents stains, odors, and wood tannins, and provides great adhesion and sealing qualities. This is perfect when used on woodwork repair and primers, but never use it on exteriors or damp surfaces.
The epoxy paint is a mixture of epoxy resin and a hardener, which results in a chemical-resistant and glossy peel that is very durable. It is resistant to moisture, abrasion, and high traffic. Suits concreted areas, garages, and industry; not suited to flexible materials or objects that suffer UV exposure.
Polyurethane paints are oil-based or solvent-based polyurethane resins, and are hard, chemical-resistant, and high-gloss. It provides superior performance in terms of durability, as well as UV stability. Usually applied to wood floors, boats, and metal with most effectiveness; this is not the best finish when breathability is desired, or when the surface needs minimal preparation.
Spray paint is a solvent that is contained under cans at pressure and creates a smooth, rapid drying finish that comes in different sheens. It does a quick and smooth cover even on complicated surfaces and small objects. It is suited well to crafts, touch-ups, and furniture; not to extensive surfaces or fine finishes.
Here are the three main types of paint based on finish:
Here are the three types of flat or matte finishes:
Chalk-based Chalk paint is water-based and has a silky, ultra-matte texture. It provides outstanding adhesion, non-primed. Ideal for obtainable furniture and older furnishings. Not suitable in the bathrooms or in areas that require regular cleaning.
Milk paint is an aqueous medium with water, milk protein (casein) and lime. It provides a slightly uneven, fine, matte and chalky finish. Works out best in antique or rustic applications. They do not suit smooth and modern appearances.
Water-based Flat latex paint is acrylic or vinyl. It is non-reflective, and after drying, it becomes a smooth matte finish. Suit walls that have low foot traffic and ceilings. Does not work well in kitchens, bathrooms or on scrubbed surfaces.
Here are the three types of Low-Sheen Finish:
Eggshell paint is a water-based option with a soft, low-sheen finish. It gently reflects light, hides surface flaws, and is easy to clean. It’s ideal for living and dining rooms, but unsuitable for bathrooms.
Satin paint is a water- or oil-based and has a smooth, slightly glossy finish. It offers better durability and moisture resistance than eggshell. It’s best for kitchens, hallways, or children’s rooms, but highlights wall imperfections.
Velvet finish acrylic is a water-based paint with a refined, low-luster surface. It adds depth and elegance to interiors while maintaining a smooth texture. It suits luxury spaces but not bathrooms or high-moisture areas.
Here are the three main types of High-Sheen Finish:
Semi-gloss paint tends towards water- or oil-based, and has a shiny effect. It repels moisture and stains as well as wear. Most suitable in the kitchen, bathrooms, and trim. Does not go well on walls that are blemished or textured.
Gloss paint is a reflective finish that is oil or water-based, which is strong. It is very strong and washable. It is recommended on doors, cabinets, and furniture. It does not go well on uneven or flawed surfaces.
High-gloss enamel is either oil-based or water-based based with the appearance of glass, containing an extremely shiny finish. It provides the highest durability and washability. Works best on metal, wood, or feature items. This does not suit big wall surfaces or imperfect surfaces.
