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Choosing the correct type of paint can make all the difference to the finish and durability of the paint for the walls of any house. Emulsion paint, despite all the trends, is growing in popularity. Being water-based, this paint gives a smooth finish and many other benefits that make it a very versatile choice for interior walls. Read on to examine emulsion paints closely for your next paint job.
What is Emulsion Paint?
Emulsion paint is the most commonly used paint for interior walls inside homes today. Whereas old-fashioned oil paint, which once enjoyed great favour, has slowly lost the same.
Water is the key ingredient that sets emulsion paint apart. These days, a good quality emulsion paint contains more than 50% water mixed with acrylic polymers, pigments for colour, and additives to imbue the paint with desirable properties. When drying on the walls, the acrylic polymers adhere to the surface, whereas the evaporation takes place for the water. What remains is a hard, protective film consisting of acrylic.
Emulsion paints come with a smooth, creamy consistency and can simply be washed away by water, making them the easiest to use for any DIY paint project. On the technological side of things, it is this technology that helps emulsion paints achieve their beautiful finish, and at the same time, it renders the paints highly durable, scrubbable, and flexible.
Advantages of Using Emulsion Paint
Emulsion paint has become an increasingly popular choice for DIYers and professional painters. Here are the main reasons that make emulsion paint so advantageous compared to other options on the market.
1. Easy Application with Smooth Results
One of the best things about emulsion paint is how effortlessly it goes onto walls. The creamy consistency flows smoothly from the paintbrush or roller, making it easy to achieve an even application without worrying about visible brush marks. Even inexperienced painters can feel like pros when working with emulsion paint. Unlike some speciality finishes, emulsion paint doesn’t require complicated techniques or a learning curve.
For a premium finish, Nerolac Excel Antipeel Wow White delivers exceptional whiteness, anti-peeling, and algae resistance properties. Unlike some speciality finishes, emulsion paint doesn’t require complicated techniques or a learning curve.
2. Quick Drying Time
Another prime advantage of emulsion paint is its quick drying time. Typically, it dries within 2 hours between coats. This means you can complete the entire painting process in just a day or two. The rapid drying allows the project to be finished faster, so you can start enjoying your fresh new walls sooner.
3. Low Odour Formula
Since emulsion paint relies on water rather than harsh solvents, it features an impressively low odour. You can paint in any room without worrying about dealing with an intense chemical smell during and after painting. It’s ideal for painting kids’ rooms, hallways, bedrooms and any living space where you want minimal scent disruption.
4. Durability for Long-Lasting Finish
While some people mistakenly think all water-based paints compromise durability, modern-quality emulsion paints are surprisingly durable. They can withstand the usual wear and tear of indoor walls for years. The acrylic formula creates a strong, flexible, and washable film on walls when dry. Just be sure to follow application recommendations and properly prep surfaces for best results.
5. Extensive Colour Options
Another area where emulsion paint excels is in offering endless colour options. Whether you want light neutrals, striking dark hues, or cheerful pastels, there is an emulsion to match. Colour tinting machines at most paint stores make it easy to customise the exact shade you have in mind. This versatility works great for coordinating specific colour schemes.
6. Budget-Friendly Paint Solution
Part of what makes emulsion paint so widely used is its affordability. Emulsion paints cost notably less than oil-based options. Factoring in lower cost and less paint needed thanks to good coverage, emulsion paint provides a budget-friendly solution. Saving money is always a plus when it comes to DIY decor goals.
7. Eco-Friendly Composition
Environmental impact matters to many homeowners these days. Since emulsion paint skips hazardous solvents in favour of water, it offers a more eco-friendly formulation. Many low-VOC and zero-VOC emulsion paint options also exist to limit airborne pollutants. Cleaning up with just soap and water rather than heavy-duty thinners is another green advantage.
8. Minimal Fumes for Better Indoor Air Quality
Connecting to the environmental benefits, emulsion paint does not give off strong fumes like other paint types. The low odour quality means better indoor air quality for homes. You don’t have to worry about opening windows or vacating the house for days with emulsion paint. This makes it ideal if you deal with asthma or chemical sensitivities.
9. Moisture-Resistant Finish
Properly formulated premium emulsion paints provide excellent moisture resistance. Unlike cheaper ceiling paints, quality emulsion wall paints feature durable acrylic binders. These create a finish that can withstand humidity and steam without issues. Bathrooms, kitchens, and basements are no match for good enamel paint. There is no need to opt for special bathroom paints.
10. Easy Maintenance and Touch-Ups
Over the years of general use, painted walls inevitably require some maintenance. Emulsion paint makes spot repairs and touch-ups a breeze. The same emulsion paint adheres well to existing layers of itself. Thoroughly clean the area first before priming and painting the spot. Make sure to feather out the paint to blend the edges.
Conclusion
When weighing your options for interior wall paints, emulsion paint comes out as a clear winner thanks to its many advantages. Emulsion paint has everything from the wide colour selection to the eco-friendly formula to the smooth and durable finish.
Just be attentive to properly prepping and priming the surface first. With quality application practices, emulsion paint delivers on performance and aesthetics for residential walls.
