Types of paints, characteristics, purpose. Interior and exterior paints

Wall paint as a finishing of premises, types of coloring compositions, their properties, colors, manufacturers.

Appointment of paints when repairing walls


In any interior, there are elements finished with paint. These can be individual decor details, ceilings, window frames, doorways and doors, as well as walls. For each described case, different types of paints can be used. Let us consider in more detail what compositions are used for painting walls, what properties they should have when used in residential premises.

Generalized purpose of paint:

  • Decorative finishing... The creation of a solid or multi-colored surface can decorate any room, changing it beyond recognition. In this value, the paint can be selected according to the color scale and texture, as well as the degree of gloss. Special paints allow you to eliminate small irregularities, mask small cracks on the walls.
  • Protection of the treated surface... The film formed after complete drying on the wall surface protects it from wear, moisture and sunlight. When special functional substances are included in the paint, it is possible to neutralize the spores of the fungus and other dangerous microorganisms (antifungal, antibacterial effect). Some paints contain components that have an anti-corrosion effect.

Specifications of wall paints


Let's describe the parameters of paints that you should pay attention to when buying:
  1. Harmlessness... Some coloring compositions contain components that can cause significant damage not only to the person directly working with them, but also to residents, even after complete drying. The activity of the process of emission of harmful substances is influenced by various microclimate conditions, for example, an increase in air temperature, humidity, exposure to sunlight.
  2. Wear resistance... Different types of paints have different resistance to mechanical damage. In order for the durability declared by the manufacturer to be at the proper level, correctly follow the recommendations for application and drying.
  3. Care... Some paints cannot be wetted, i.e. cleaning is done only dry. Others, indelible, can be treated with water, but stains that appear cannot be removed. Still others, washable, are able to repel dirt, and when cleaning, you can use soap or alkaline solutions. The fourth ones are intended only for dry rooms that have a low operating load and cannot withstand the effects of water vapor, polluting vapors from a gas stove, cigarette smoke settle on them too quickly, and the color of the coating changes.
  4. Hiding power... The ability of the coloring solution to overlap the color of the treated surface. A high level of this parameter indicates that the paint is capable of blocking even the contrasting color of the base when applied in 1-2 layers.
  5. Lightfastness... This characteristic is relevant for those rooms that are on the sunny side and are constantly exposed to sunlight, which can fade the color of wall paints, which significantly deteriorates the appearance of the room.
  6. Drying time... An important parameter for the overall speed of the repair. In most cases, you have to apply not one, but two layers of paint. Before the second application, the first coat must be completely dry to prevent bubbles from forming on the walls.
  7. Consumption... This parameter depends on the hiding power. Pay attention to the consumption of wall paint before buying. Sometimes the more expensive colorant is so economical that it can properly paint the surface in 1-2 coats. As a result, it is cheaper than a larger volume of goods with a lower cost, the full hiding power of which is achieved when applying more than 2 layers.

The main varieties of wall paints

The varnish-and-paint industry is also distinguished by a variety of production technologies, which provides the market with a wide range of paints for interior wall decoration. These goods have a variety of characteristics that determine their classification. The composition of paints includes several components, which include film-forming substances, solvents, pigments, fillers and functional additives. As a film-forming agent in wall paints, glue, drying oil, varnishes, aqueous dispersions of polymers can be used. Here is the classification of wall paints according to their composition.

Alkyd paints for wall decoration


An alkyd resin is used as a base. There are two main subspecies - oil and enamel. Their smell is quite unpleasant and can stand out for some time even after drying. Alkyd paints are flammable and susceptible to alkali. Due to these properties, alkyd dyes are not recommended for use in residential premises.

Oil paint for walls is made on the basis of drying oil, they can be diluted even with gasoline, turpentine. Available on the market in liquid form (ready to use) and pasty. Their price is one of the lowest, but the drying rate is quite low, and during operation, harmful substances are released, the color becomes yellow over time. It is not recommended to paint walls in residential areas.

Varnish is used as a base in enamel paints. They dry quickly and are suitable for a wide variety of materials. This variety has the following advantages over oil: resistance to light and water, color fastness, durable coating reliably protects against corrosion, non-toxic.

Emulsion paint mixtures for walls


All components of this type of paint are evenly distributed in the water. Their huge advantage is that they are quite economical, do not create conditions for the spread of fire, are safe for the human body and the environment, dry quickly, they do not have a strong unpleasant odor, and are resistant to alkali.

If the surface was previously painted with glossy dyes or any adhesive, then you should not use water-based paint for the walls, it is better to first clean the surface of the old coating. Before applying to metal surfaces, it is worth using a protective primer. Among other characteristics of this type of paints: high elasticity, a large number of colors that do not change during operation, quick drying, no odor.

Negative properties include poor absorbency, the ability to operate only in rooms with positive temperatures, and the fact that maximum strength appears only a month after application. Emulsion paints have several subspecies, among them - latex, acrylic, water-based, water-dispersion, silicone.

Let's describe each subspecies in more detail:

  • Acrylic paint... It is made on the basis of acrylic resins. Has many benefits. The most significant: high elasticity, increased strength, resistance to ultraviolet and low air temperatures, high water-repellent properties, the formation of a film layer capable of protecting walls from corrosion. Acrylic wall paints are quite expensive, but cheaper options are available based on acrylic copolymers. It is not recommended to apply on fresh plaster, in rooms with high humidity, in old buildings. A variety of colors can be used to create a spectacular interior. acrylic paints lend themselves well to tinting.
  • Latex paint for walls... The most expensive subspecies. Manufacturers add latex to its composition, due to which, after application, a strong water-repellent film is formed. Dries very quickly. Suitable for painting textured wallpaper, mineral surfaces. Has the ability to mask small cracks. However, the resistance to light is less than that of PVA paints and acrylics.
  • Water-based paint for walls... They are quick drying and easy to apply. The coating is short-lived, because is gradually washed off if wet cleaning is applied. Water-based solutions have a wide color gamut, while they can be textured, which allows you to create volumetric images. The increased strength of the dye composition allows you to bridge existing cracks and prevent the appearance of new ones.
  • Water-dispersive... They are moisture resistant, so they can be cleaned many times with liquid. Basically, this type is made only in white. Like water-based paints, these paints are vapor-permeable, applicable even in damp rooms, have high color fastness, but they do not tolerate sub-zero temperatures poorly.
  • Silicone paints... Their cost is quite high. After application to walls made of mineral materials, a reliable water-repellent coating is created, but at the same time it is vapor permeable. Despite these properties, unwanted microorganisms do not develop on such a surface. The increased elasticity of paints containing silicone resins makes it possible to mask fine cracks up to 2 mm thick - this is one of the best elasticity indicators among all types of paints. Silicone paints can have a specific odor and take a long time to dry. Any mineral surfaces are suitable for processing with silicone paints, including clean plaster without a finishing layer of putty, they can also be applied over latex, acrylic coatings.

Adhesive paints for wall covering


They are based on the same as in emulsion ones, water is used. However, an important difference is that adhesive coloring compositions are not resistant to carbon dioxide and moisture, therefore, they are recommended for finishing dry rooms in which the air is well ventilated.

This type of dye gives a porous surface, so the walls breathe. But due to the organic composition, the development of mold and other undesirable microorganisms is possible at high humidity. Supplied to the market in powder, diluted with water before use.

There are the following types of water-based paints:

  1. Casein dyes... On plaster, concrete, brick, an even matte finish is created, the strength of which improves over time. Among glue-based paints, this type allows you to make the wall surface the most durable and beautiful.
  2. Dextrinated paints... It is based on bone glue. They are characterized by low water resistance, therefore, they are applicable for finishing only indoors in dry rooms.
  3. Polyvinyl acetate paints... The most budgetary option. Low moisture resistance means that the coating can be almost completely washed off after a few damp cleaning. At the same time, they have increased lightfastness, and are also immune to the effects of oils and fats. Rarely used for painting walls, a more frequent use is for ceiling applications. Can be tinted only by hand in a limited number of colors.

Silicate wall paints


This type belongs to mineral dyes, because liquid glass is used as a base, and dilution is carried out with water. The composition contains alkali, so you should strictly follow the precautions when working with silicone paints. They can be used to paint any alkaline surfaces such as plaster. They practically do not combine with other types of paints, especially acrylic and alkyd ones, they are not applied to glass, ceramics, stone and metal.

Properties such as breathability and looseness play more than just a positive role. Their duality is expressed in the fact that the silicate coating does not protect the wall from moisture, but at the same time does not retain it, i.e. promotes faster weathering. At the same time, the layer of silicate paint itself, after drying, is resistant to changes in air temperature and moisture, is quite durable (many manufacturers indicate a service life of up to 20 years).

Polyurethane wall paints


In its production, polyurethane resins and hardeners are used, which are mixed immediately before application. The cost of such paints is quite high, but the advantages completely cover it. Walls covered with polyurethane paint acquire high wear resistance to vibration, chemical, temperature, and light effects.

The durability of the coating reaches 20 years or more. Most often, such dyes are not used in residential premises due to their high cost, but can be indispensable in damp rooms, for example, kitchens or bathrooms.

Structural features of wall paints


After drying, the paints have a different structure and gloss level. In this regard, there are several types of structure:
  • Embossed or structural... They can be sold ready-to-use or as a powder that is added to the paint of the desired color. After application, a rough surface is created with abstract contours.
  • Decorating... With their help, the illusion of cracked plaster or natural materials, such as wood, natural stone, is created.
  • Matte... The most acceptable option is to use it in the living room, hallway. Matt paints mask surface imperfections well.
  • Semi-matte and semi-gloss... These types are most often used in bathrooms or kitchens, because easy to clean, durable enough. Can be applied to paintable wallpaper.
  • Glossy... After drying, the surface becomes smooth and shiny. The effect of volumetricness of the treated surfaces is created.

Rules for choosing wall paint


Recommendations for the choice of paint are reduced to the compliance of their characteristics with the purpose of the room, the material of the walls and the internal microclimate. When deciding how to choose a wall paint, use the information below:
  1. The best option for a bathroom or kitchen is alkyd, polyurethane paints. Latex and acrylic paints containing antifungal agents are also useful in rooms with varying humidity levels. To keep your kitchen walls tidy, use paints that will withstand thorough wet cleaning. Washing paint for walls is very popular, the maintenance of which is quite simple, while there are no undesirable reactions of the coating with moisture.
  2. Durability, increased operational stability are the main characteristics that paints for walls in corridors and hallways should have. As an option - two-component latex-acrylic, because the coating they create is resistant to mechanical damage. From the available range of colors, it is better to choose light colors, because these rooms do not have natural light sources.
  3. For bedrooms, harmless water-based paints are suitable, which create a matte surface, or acrylic paints with high vapor permeability.
  4. A universal option for the living room is acrylic paint. it has a very wide range of colors. This allows you to create vibrant, saturated images on the walls.
  5. For living quarters, especially bedrooms, children's rooms or those rooms where people with allergies are located, choose ecological paints that do not emit unpleasant odors and substances harmful to living organisms. The production of safe dyes is regulated in many countries at the legislative level, for example, in Denmark, Finland, Norway, Switzerland.
  6. Tikkuril wall paint can be tinted in 20,000 colors, which will help to embody a wide variety of flights of fantasy into decorative reality.
  7. Among the popular manufacturers of paints and varnishes, there are MARSHALL (Turkey), Caparol (Germany), Empils (Russia), Finncolor (Finland), Alpina (Germany), Dufa (Germany), SHERWIN-WILLIAMS (USA), PARKERPAINT (USA).
Before buying paint, be sure to read the information on the product label in order to know exactly the composition, scope, application methods, precautions, shelf life, operating conditions.

How to choose wall paint - watch the video:


The choice of wall paint is not an easy task due to the many options, however, putting the priority of the harmlessness of finishing materials for the body at the forefront, it is easy enough to make the right choice.

Modern design trends are now pushing the role of wallpaper in the interior to the background. The popularity of paints is noted, which allow you to independently choose the color, texture and shine of the painted surface.

So how, with all the variety of products presented, make the right choice when carrying out repairs?

How to make the right choice

When choosing paint in a store, it is necessary to clearly determine what properties it should have, for what purposes the room is intended and what type of surface is to be painted (wood, wallpaper, plaster, drywall, etc.)

The main criteria when choosing a paint for walls and ceilings are consumption, spreading rate, drying time, adhesion and emission class.


What do these terms mean?

The consumption of paints and varnishes is indicated in the form of the required number of grams per 1 m2, or in the form of the number of meters that can be covered with one liter. The average figure is usually indicated on the package.

Hiding power is the amount of paint in grams that needs to be applied per m2 to cover the previous color.

Surface drying time is an important criterion when choosing a paint. Usually it has 2 meanings - from the appearance of a surface film to complete hardening.

The emission class determines the amount of volatile substances such as formaldehyde, ammonia and carcinogens emitted by the paint. The inscription on the M1 can indicates that the coating does not emit volatile substances and is completely safe for use even in children's rooms, M2 - during operation, the product emits a small amount of harmful substances, M3 - material tests have not been carried out, or the permissible standards for drug release are exceeded. These paints should only be used for facade work.

Adhesion is the quality of adhesion of a coating to a surface. The label usually contains a list of surfaces for which the paint is suitable.

It is worth paying attention to the declared moisture resistance of the paint and its resistance to washing. These parameters are especially important when choosing a material for decorating bathrooms and kitchens. A good indicator of paintwork is sufficient wear resistance.


How to choose wall paint

All paints are divided into facade (for outdoor use) and interior (for indoor use).

The most popular wall and ceiling paints are acrylic, latex, alkyd and silicone. Let's consider each of them in more detail.

Water-based paints are the best option for interior work. They are odorless, have low emission rates and are suitable for many types of surfaces. In this article, we will look at the most popular types of water-based wall paints.

Acrylic wall paints have such advantages as high elasticity, resistance to fading, increased strength, high water repellency and ease of tinting. They are well suited for painting wood surfaces, drywall and paintable wallpaper.

Latex paints are produced on a water dispersion basis and do not contain harmful chemical compounds, which is an undoubted advantage.

The coating turns out to be resistant to many types of impact due to the natural latex in its composition. The harmlessness and resistance to detergents make this paint the ideal choice for children's rooms.

Silicone paints are based on silicone resins and water as a solvent. The advantages of their choice are good vapor permeability and resistance to fading, dirt and high humidity.

The material can be safely applied to concrete, brick, natural stone and mineral plaster. Also on sale are silicone paints with flame retardants and antibacterial components.

Alkyd paints are used as a universal coating for wood, concrete, cement and plaster surfaces. The binder here is an alkyd resin made on the basis of vegetable oil with organic acids.

This type of paintwork is used extremely rarely due to the long drying time and specific odor. Painting the walls with this paint is not a good idea, it will look more harmonious to place some bright accents in the interior when applied to a small area.


Textured paints

Not so long ago, textured paints appeared on the paintwork market, with the help of which you can change not only the color of the walls in the room, but also create an imitation of cork, wood or stone covering. Also, this paintwork has a different degree of gloss. It is used to decorate brick, concrete and wood surfaces.

After applying a protective layer of decorative wax, the coating becomes waterproof. The paint acquires relief due to the presence of quartz chips and other fillers in it. It can be tinted well, if you wish, you can order the color from the manufacturer.

The downside is the preparation for application - the paint is not suitable for walls with irregularities and depressions of more than 2 mm.

How to choose a paint color for walls

Since the selection of the color of paints suitable for you can be a very difficult task, it is recommended to buy a coating with the possibility of adding special tinting pastes to it, which will help to achieve the desired result.

To do this, carefully study the catalogs of tinting pigments presented to you for the selected paintwork. This will help determine the choice of the desired shade. It will also help to study photos of wall paints on the Internet using the example of the interiors you like.

When choosing the main color of the room, you should not choose too bright options. According to the designers, it is better to choose calmer shades of the colors you like, this will make your interior more comfortable.

Also, when choosing, a test painting on a limited section of the wall will help. With this approach, it is much more convenient to assess how suitable a particular shade is in the interior, whether the previous color of the surface overlaps.

Do not choose dark shades for small rooms - this will visually reduce the area of ​​the room. In this case, colors of a lighter, warmer range are suitable. When choosing, you should pay attention to the expected glossiness of the walls after painting.


It is worth remembering that glossy surfaces always intensify the color saturation, while matte surfaces muffle them. Also, a glossy finish looks harmonious only on flat surfaces without irregularities and recesses, while matte colors hide minor wall defects.

Photo wall paint

There are different paints designed for painting walls, which differ in component composition, characteristics and properties. The modern market offers a wide range of paints and varnishes. In this article, we will look at the aspects of choosing paint for the walls of a room.

Features of the choice of paint

Most consumers remain in a difficult situation when choosing paint, because manufacturers offer decorative mixtures with different effects, acrylics and other substances. When choosing, you need to pay great attention to the characteristics of paint for painting walls, as well as to the peculiarities of the microclimate in the house or apartment.

Before buying paint, you need to decide on the total area of ​​work, as well as the type of room, for example, kitchen, bedroom, nursery, and the like. It is important to consider the type of base on which the material will be applied. The modern choice of paint will allow you to form any texture of the wall, from imitation marble to wood. Of course, such materials have a considerable cost, so determine the approximate amount of waste. After clarifying all aspects, you can start choosing paints and varnishes.

All paints are divided into two main types:

  • front - intended for finishing the outer walls of the building;
  • interior - used for interior work.

In this case, it is necessary to select paints for the interior. Another type of classification involves dividing into:

  • moisture resistant, experts recommend using them for the bathroom;
  • non-moisture resistant, used to decorate the walls of a room, for example, a hallway, a bedroom, and the like.

The next criterion for the classification of paints for painting walls is the property of vapor permeability. In particular, in children's rooms or in the bedroom, it is recommended to choose products that are vapor-permeable. Wear resistance is distinguished by other parameters for choosing a paint. This is indicated by the resistance of the painted wall to abrasion as a result of damage, surface cleaning, and so on.

Most experts take into account other parameters, which are important. For example, the ease of use of paint, as well as the desired result of the work, it is advised to take into account the discontinuity and thixotropy. In the first case, the parameter shows the consumption of material per 1 square meter of the wall surface. The second property involves the use of the best paints for painting walls, which do not spread along the wall and do not drip from the brush. Such products are quite convenient to use and apply.

When choosing finishing materials, you need to choose substances with the inscription "For walls" and the like. Buyers should be aware that all paints and varnishes have different characteristics and properties depending on the painting of the ceiling, walls or floor. The painted wall should be easy to brush or wipe down with a damp cloth. Many manufacturers offer universal remedies, however, not all of their parameters may correspond to the base.

Types of paints: characteristics and selection

There are different types of paints that are designed to decorate the surface of the wall inside the house. So, manufacturers offer:

  • water-dispersive;
  • alkyd enamels;
  • oil;
  • silicone.

Water-dispersion agents are also called water-soluble and water-based emulsion materials. This type of product is the most economical and popular to use. When painting the walls with water-based paint, you will not feel any smell, and the surface will dry quickly. The main component of the material is water, however, the properties are determined by the added polymers, which bind the structure of the paint.

Water-borne paints can be produced with the addition of PVA. Such materials are the cheapest and are recommended for use when painting ceilings or dry rooms. More expensive types of paints are made from acrylic resins or latex. Dispersion mixtures are used for painting in a dry building. The main advantage of the product is its easy surface cleaning and resistance to pollution. These paints have a high level of vapor permeability.

Painting walls with acrylic paint is recommended for rooms with high humidity. These materials are made from acrylic resin, which allows substances to be bound. Acrylic products have increased resistance to abrasion, while they do not emit harmful substances and are odorless. For these products, tinting pastes are offered, which will allow you to recreate any shade of the room. After painting, the walls take on a matte shade, which looks very relevant.

Latex-based paints are classified as water-borne. The main feature of the product is abrasion resistance. When applying the product, it is not necessary to apply several layers, one will be enough, while the walls will have a matte-silky appearance. Latex paints are excellent for painting wallpaper, as well as for finishing with textured plaster. After drying, a thin film forms on the base of the wall, which will keep the base from getting dirty. Products differ in the level of glossy surface after finishing.

Silicone paints have many advantages, because the products are created using the latest production technologies. They are made from silicone resins, which are emulsified. The paint has a high level of vapor permeability. After painting, the surface of the wall does not allow moisture to pass through and does not absorb it, therefore the substance is used for outdoor work.

Oil paints are made from drying oil: natural or artificial with the addition of pigments, which form a homogeneous mass. Such materials are durable and are used in various types of finishing work. When painting walls with oil paint, it is important to remember that the surface will dry for a long time and this will create a vapor-tight surface. These parameters can be called the disadvantages of using paint. Moreover, all products have a specific smell, however, recently such materials have not been used for interior decoration work.

Alkyd paints are considered another type of paints, they consist of different components that are bound by an alkyd resin. Such substances do not dry out from the use of solvents, but as a result of oxidation in the open air. Such paints dry quickly, while creating a protective film on the surface. Most often, products are used to coat metal parts to protect them from corrosion. Alkyd substances emit a strong odor, which does not fizzle out for a long time. Therefore, it is not advisable to use such mixtures for painting walls.

Painting walls with decorative and textured paint

Particular attention should be paid to decorative paints that have recently appeared on the market. Using a mixture like this will allow you to recreate different surfaces with specific effects, textures, and so on. After finishing the work, the surface of the wall can display the appearance of stone, gold, velvet and the like. Many clients opt for chameleon paints, which change their shades when a certain amount of light hits the wall surface.

Decorative paints are produced on a water basis with the addition of mineral or polymer components, which determine the properties and characteristics of the substance. Also, such materials have other advantages. First of all, the decorative mixture is environmentally friendly, which allows it to be used in any room, and this is especially true for living rooms. Such mixtures are resistant to abrasion and wear, which prolongs the life of the premises.

Decorative and textured paints allow you to create different effects, however, to implement them, you need to seek the help of specialists. All work is carried out with the necessary tools and tools in compliance with the paint application technique. Professionals use rollers of various shapes, brushes, spatulas and other devices. In hardware stores, samples of patterns of a certain type of paint are offered. After all, each mixture forms a different surface, which is important to consider when choosing a paint.

Eco-friendly paints

Some manufacturers have recently started producing certain types of paints that are environmentally friendly. Experts call them "green paints". Such materials are completely natural, and when painting the walls they do not emit harmful substances. The production process completely eliminates components that threaten human health, for example, mercury, lead, and the like.

When designer painting walls with ecological paint, the option is not suitable. Most often, such mixtures are used to decorate children's rooms or for people who suffer from allergies. Many manufacturing companies use special labels on products that indicate environmentally friendly material.

Paint selection options

Most experts put forward a number of requirements for different types of paints:

  • ecological properties of the mixture, it is recommended to choose water-based substances;
  • resistance to ultraviolet rays, mechanical damage and cleaning agents;
  • drying time of the material;
  • properties that determine the uniform coloring of the surface.

It's important to know! The higher the indicators provided, the better the mixture is considered for painting walls indoors.

When choosing paint and varnish materials, you need to pay attention to the following features:

  • type of wall base;
  • total area for finishing;
  • the purpose of the room, for example, kitchen, bath, bedroom, etc.

When choosing a paint, you need to decide on the desired shade of the wall. At the same time, you can use decorative mixtures that will create an original and beautiful wall surface. When choosing a paint, it is important to follow some guidelines and tips.

So, the characteristics of the choice of paint are:

  • the property of para-permeability (the acquired material must "breathe", that is, let air pass through, especially when painting a nursery or bedroom);
  • resistance to wear (the painted surface of the walls should not be erased);
  • thixotropy (when painting, it is important that the paint does not drip from the brush, which can form drips and deposits on the surface);
  • approximate material consumption per 1 sq. meter.

Aspects of choosing a paint shade

Many people believe that the corresponding paint color is displayed on the packaging in the form of a small rectangle and the like. Most buyers choose bright colors for painting walls with paint, photos of which are presented in catalogs. Experts do not recommend choosing a color for such parameters.

Over time, bright colors will bore the owners, especially in large rooms or in the rooms where they spend the most time. It is recommended to opt for pale or pastel colors. thus, you will create a cozy space in an apartment or house.

Designers suggest following small rules for choosing a shade of paint. This will create a comfortable room in any style. So, pay attention to these aspects:

  • in rooms with low lighting, it is recommended to use substances of light shades, for example, beige and so on;
  • when the windows exit to the south, you can pick up paints of darker shades with a rich texture;
  • in small rooms it is advised to use light shades of mixtures, which will visually enlarge the room;
  • when choosing a paint color, it is important to remember the matching of the shade of the ceiling and walls;
  • if you plan to make glossy walls, then the required intensity of the shade should be higher, and with a matte surface, the color is absorbed.

In fact, when choosing a paint, it is important to consider various parameters such as the type of substrate, material characteristics, and so on. Much attention is paid to the selection of a shade of paint for the interior of the room, which will create a comfortable and original room in a house or apartment.

It cannot pass without the use of various paints and varnishes. Someone uses it for minor decorating work, and someone - as the main material used to decorate walls and ceilings. The reliability of the repair in the latter case will completely depend on the correct choice of the composition, therefore, its purchase should be approached very responsibly.

Thinking about what paint to paint the walls in an apartment, you need to pay attention not only not to the color of the product, but also to many other criteria, which we will describe in detail in this article.

The main functions of coloring compositions

The use of paint greatly facilitates the entire renovation process and opens up huge opportunities for the owners in terms of decorating the room. With its help, you can create a cozy monochromatic interior or turn the walls into a real piece of art, decorating them with various patterns and compositions.

This option for wall decoration attracts owners with its simplicity and unpretentiousness. You can always paint over boring colors with fresher tones, and it is not at all necessary for this to arrange a global renovation and hire professional workers.

In addition to the decorative function, the paint should act as a protective coating that protects the walls from the negative effects of the environment. This quality is especially important in rooms with an aggressive microclimate, therefore, finishing materials for them are selected more carefully.

But how to understand the huge assortment of compounds and understand what paint to paint the walls in the apartment and in each separate room? To make the right choice, you should consider all the varieties of such coatings, their technical characteristics and scope.

What parameters of paints should you pay special attention to?

When choosing products for painting interior surfaces, first of all, the characteristics of wall paints should be considered. Particular attention should be paid to indicators such as:

Environmental friendliness;

Wear resistance;

Care requirements;

Opacity;

Time to complete drying;

Persistence;

When it comes to renovating a living space, the safety of the materials used plays a very important role. Not everyone knows that many coloring compositions can harm human health even after completely drying out. Paints that are unsuitable for use at elevated temperatures and high humidity emit a large amount of toxic substances, which should be taken into account when using them.

The durability and care of each compound is also different. Some coatings can be rubbed and washed using chemicals, while others do not accept contact with water at all. Taking into account the specifics of the finished premises, you should choose the most suitable option.

The hiding power indicator indicates the ability of the composition to overlap the previous color. The higher the value, the fewer layers will need to be used before the old shade is completely painted over.

For rooms on the sunny side, the lightfastness of the paint is very important. To prevent painted walls from losing color saturation over time, it is recommended to choose a coating that is resistant to ultraviolet radiation for such rooms.

The speed of repair work depends on the drying time, and the paint consumption indicates the economy of this coating, which is also very important.

The main types of paints

If you cannot decide what paint to paint the walls in the apartment, consider all the existing options and determine the best one for a particular case.

So, all modern coloring compositions are divided into two main groups:

Alkyd;

Emulsion.

The first group is made on the basis of alkyd resins, which is why the compositions have a rather unpleasant odor, which often persists even after drying. These products are fire hazardous and susceptible to alkaline attack.

Alkyd compounds include oil and enamel paints.

Oil coatings are made on the basis of drying oil, due to which they have the lowest price tag. However, this is their only advantage. This paint is very toxic, dries for a long time, and quickly loses its original color. Wall oils are not used in interior decoration.

Enamel coatings are made on the basis of varnish. They dry quickly enough, fit perfectly on any surface, have good durability, withstand the effects of water and light, and, most importantly, are non-toxic.

The group of emulsion paints includes harmless coatings that do not emit an unpleasant odor and harmful substances. They are fireproof, resistant to alkaline compounds, fast drying and a wide variety of shades. Therefore, if the choice of wall paint causes you difficulties, feel free to give preference to this group, which includes the following compositions:

Acrylic compounds;

Latex coatings;

Water-based paints;

Silicone coatings.

Let's take a closer look at all of the above types.

for walls and ceilings in residential premises

Compositions based on aqueous dispersions of acrylic resins are considered the most suitable for interior work.

They are characterized by a high drying rate, minimal toxicity, abrasion resistance, lack of pungent odors, moisture resistance and the ability to color in any shades.

For walls and ceilings, today it is presented in a glossy, matte and mother-of-pearl version. There are also special varieties of these products designed specifically for bathrooms, kitchens and surfaces near heating appliances.

Thanks to the ability to paint the mixture in a variety of shades, water-based acrylic paint is actively used in decorating interior walls. Its functionality allows you to paint almost all surfaces in living rooms (walls, ceilings, doors, and other items). It fits perfectly on even wooden, brick, concrete bases and cinder block.

Water-based acrylic paint has become very popular in the decoration of bedrooms, living rooms and children's rooms. Despite its water resistance, it is not recommended to cover walls near sinks and shower stalls, since this material does not tolerate direct splashes.

The composition is applied to the walls with any painting tools in several layers. If necessary, the paint can be diluted to a more liquid state with plain water.

Latex paints

With the addition of latex, it is considered the most expensive subtype of emulsion formulations. It is absolutely harmless and fireproof. Its main difference is its very high abrasion resistance. Latex additives help to create a durable water-repellent film on the surface, so the walls can be washed frequently.

This coating is highly resistant to moisture, vapor permeable and does not form condensation. The antiseptic and antifungal properties of the paint make it suitable for use in bathrooms, toilets and kitchens.

The latex structure of the coating helps to mask small cracks and chips.

The liquid composition can be applied to wallpaper for painting and decorative plaster, wooden walls and other plastered surfaces. It should be borne in mind that glossy moisture resistant type) strongly emphasizes all irregularities and defects, while matte perfectly hides them.

The paint is applied to the surface using a medium-bristled roller or a wide brush. The coating is as dense and uniform as possible.

The disadvantages of latex-type paints include poor resistance to ultraviolet rays and high cost.

When choosing a latex paint, one should take into account the type of surface on which it will be applied, since the manufacturer produces completely different compositions for ceilings and walls.

Water-based paint

The most short-lived and cheapest today is water-based paint (for interior work). The price of such compositions attracts many buyers, however, in addition to the cost, you should pay attention to some of the features of this coating.

It cannot be used in a room where wet cleaning is often carried out, since the paint is gradually washed off under the influence of water. Nevertheless, compositions of this type are highly valued for their absolute environmental friendliness and safety for others.

Also, the positive features of water-based paint include:

1. Very fast drying (up to two hours).

2. Lack of unpleasant odor during the dyeing process.

3. Possibility of tinting. Initially, colorless paint can be given absolutely any color (using special pigments).

4. Ease of use. The paint is easy to apply. Soiled tools, hands and clothing can be cleaned with water.

5. Excellent vapor permeability.

You can use this paint on any flat surfaces that do not come into contact with water and are not subject to friction. When processing plastered bases, paint is applied in three layers, if walls with wallpaper are finished, two treatments are quite enough.

Silicone paints

Silicone decorative wall paint does not contain volatile and harmful components, which is why it is used even in children's rooms. It is distinguished by its high cost, but at the same time it has a number of positive qualities:

. Vapor permeability... Due to the fact that when using this composition, natural air exchange is maintained, a favorable microclimate reigns in the room.

. Absolute waterproofness... Such a coating can be used in rooms with high humidity, condensation will not accumulate on the walls and mold will not form.

. Resistant to extreme temperature changes and sunlight... This paint perfectly tolerates high temperatures, therefore it is actively used in the decoration of bathrooms.

. Resistance to dirt... The coating does not attract dust and is well cleaned of any dirt.

.Versatility... The composition can be applied to any substrate. It can be used to coat wood, brick, plastered walls and natural stone. Also, this option will be an excellent choice for those who need paint for concrete walls. The composition well masks all cracks, cracks and all kinds of defects.

. Durability... Re-finishing of the walls will be required no earlier than 20 years later.

Apply silicone paint to previously prepared surfaces. They are cleaned of debris and dust, and then primed.

how to apply and what are its features

It is impossible not to mention another type of paintwork that is very popular in interior decoration - textured wall paint.

With its help, the most unusual and sophisticated relief coatings of a wide variety of patterns are created.

The indisputable advantages of textured compositions include the following qualities:

1. Good UV resistance.

2. Flexibility of the hardened coating. In the process of natural shrinkage of the building, cracks do not form on the surface of the walls.

3. Resistance to moisture. The surfaces are not covered with mold and mildew.

4. Resistance to any dirt. Walls do not attract dust, dirt and odors.

5. Absolute environmental friendliness. The product does not contain harmful components, which makes it suitable for use in all rooms (without restrictions).

6. Wide range of colors. Shades of paints for walls (textured type) can be very diverse, which allows you to choose a color for any style of room decoration.

7. Possibility of applying on any substrate.

8. Ability to hide small flaws and surface defects.

Textured paint is applied very simply, without the use of any expensive equipment. To create unusual textures, you can add fine sawdust or quartz sand to it, which will allow you to give the coating rough reliefs or create thin edges.

Depending on what effect the owner of the premises wants to achieve, one of the following tools is used for application:

Plain sponge;

Textured rollers;

Comb;

Metal spatula.

Before applying the composition, the surface is cleaned of debris and old coating. If there are deep recesses in the walls, they are sealed with putty. A smooth base is treated with a deep penetration acrylic primer.

The finished mixture is thoroughly mixed, coloration elements are added, and then re-mixed until the color is uniform.

In order to give the coating the desired relief, the mixture must be applied in a sufficiently thick layer. Work should be performed simultaneously over the entire surface of the base. If the walls are finished intermittently, the joints between the frozen and the new composition may be noticeable.

After drying, the textured paint can be coated with decorative acrylic compounds.

Paint manufacturers

It is difficult enough to make an unambiguous conclusion about which paint for interior walls is the best. When choosing any coating, one should take into account the specifics of the room in which it will be used, the characteristics of the product itself and the reliability of the manufacturer. Sometimes expensive products are of lower quality than similar materials (with a lower price tag) from well-known companies.

In the modern market, you can find coatings of excellent quality from most European manufacturers. For example, paints from Wandfarbe and Dufa proved to be excellent in operation. Finnish wall paint Tikkurila and products of the Polish manufacturer under the brand name Sniezka are very popular today.

Domestic manufacturers also skillfully withstand competition with foreign products. Russian paints "Eurolux", "Admiral", "Oreol", "Bindo" and others are distinguished by excellent quality and availability.

How to choose a quality paint

If you are thinking about what paint to paint the walls in an apartment, pay attention to several criteria of your chosen options:

1. Reviews about the manufacturer.

2. Resistance to various external influences.

3. The complexity or ease of application.

4. Profitability.

You can understand whether a particular product is suitable in your case by looking at its packaging. Usually, the manufacturer indicates on it the main characteristics of the composition and factors that can negatively affect the color fastness and service life of the coating itself.

You should not give preference to very cheap formulations, as a rule, they are the most short-lived.

For example, high-quality matte paint "Halo" has a price tag of 450 rubles for a 5-liter bucket. Interior paint "Maestro" will cost about 1400 rubles for 5 liters.

For finishing the interior surfaces, Oasis have a price tag of 1,700 rubles for 9 liters. The products of the Finnish manufacturer have a higher price tag, which starts at 6650 rubles per 5 liters.

Domestic water-based paint will cost about 30 rubles per 1 liter, and textured compositions (of good quality) should have a price tag of at least 950 rubles per 18 kg.

In this article, we examined their most popular characteristics and approximate cost. We hope that after reading the above information, you have no questions of their choice. Happy shopping and easy repairs!

Various types of paint are used to protect surfaces from adverse environmental factors (dust, moisture, temperature extremes, harmful microorganisms), as well as to give them the desired properties. Depending on the goals pursued, one or another is selected paint type... For example, in order to prevent the development of mold fungi on surfaces, you need to choose a paint that already contains an appropriate antiseptic.

To calculate the paint consumption, you can use the paint consumption calculator.

In the case of repainting surfaces, it is necessary to take into account the compatibility of paints and immediately select a suitable one so that you do not have to completely clean off the old paint and apply a new one, which is associated with colossal labor and material costs.

To avoid unexpected surprises when painting surfaces, you need to know what are types of paint, how they differ and in what area the application of each of them is justified.

Types and types of paints.

The division of paints into groups was mentioned above. Let's consider these groups, describe their main characteristics and possible areas of use.

The first group is emulsion paints.

Emulsion paints are obtained by diluting the binder base and coloring particles in water, as a result of which a stable emulsion is formed. After drying, the emulsion paints are quite waterproof. And before drying, they are easily washed off hands and tools. Emulsion paints have the following properties:

  • Profitability;
  • Fire safety;
  • Environmental friendliness;
  • Resistant to alkalis.

In addition, emulsion paints perfectly fit on various surfaces, dry quickly and do not have a pronounced repulsive odor. After painting the surfaces with such paint, any other paints, as well as enamels, can be used in the future. However, you cannot use emulsion paint if the surface has previously been painted with glossy paints, glue paints or varnishes. It should also be noted that in order to prevent corrosion, metal surfaces need to be primer.

Emulsion paints are divided into the following types of paints: acrylic, water-based, polyvinyl acetate (PVA), water-based, latex, silicone.

Some people do not see the difference between water-based and water-based paints because they:

  • Do not flake off;
  • "Breathe", that is, they are breathable;
  • Suitable for rooms with high air humidity;
  • Do not fade;
  • They are not frost-resistant.

However, there are also differences between them. Matt water-based paints when washed, they are gradually washed off, while water-based paints have increased moisture resistance (can be washed many times). In addition, water-based paints are mostly white, while water-based paints come in various colors and shades. Water-dispersion paints are applied to surfaces only at temperatures above + 50C.

Water-based paints are textured or structured. They are used to create three-dimensional effects when decorating surfaces. They have increased strength, so they can also be used to protect surfaces from cracking.

In acrylic paints, acrylic resins act as a binder. The characteristics of such paints are as follows:

  • High elasticity (adapted to living wood);
  • Increased strength;
  • The ability to bridge cracks up to 0.5 mm thick;
  • Frost resistance (after complete drying);
  • Low gas permeability (which allows them to be used to protect against corrosion, for example, reinforced concrete);
  • Can be used for alkaline substrates (for example, they can be applied to fresh plaster, but not earlier than after a month, so that the plaster can fully harden);
  • Increased mechanical strength;
  • UV resistance, which allows them to retain their color for a long time;
  • Waterproof.

The disadvantage of acrylic paints can be attributed to their high cost, as well as the fact that they are poorly suited for painting buildings with damp walls. Cheaper analogues of acrylic paints are made using acrylic copolymers as a base.

Latex paints are the most expensive emulsion paints available. In their production, latex is used, which significantly enhances the water-repellent effect, this allows you to wash surfaces without restriction. Such paints are capable of tightening cracks up to 1mm thick on the surface. Latex paints can be used on a wide variety of surfaces: walls (made of concrete, brick, plasterboard or covered with plaster), ceilings, structured wallpaper. These paints dry within 1 hour. However, their lightfastness is slightly lower than that of PVA paints and emulsion acrylic paints.

Polyvinyl acetate paints(PVA) - the cheapest, while they are environmentally friendly, have high lightfastness, as well as resistance to fats and oils. Most often, these paints are used for painting ceilings. They have low water resistance, therefore, with repeated washing, they are gradually washed off.

V silicone paints the binder base is emulsified silicone resins. When such paints dry, a surface that repels water well is formed, which perfectly permeates air and steam, is resistant to dirt and harmful microorganisms. Such paints have high elasticity, they can bridge cracks up to 2 mm thick on the surface. Silicone paints can be applied to fresh plaster after two days. These paints are used for painting all types of mineral surfaces. They are very compatible with mineral, acrylic and latex paints. They can even be applied to old silicate paint. Unfortunately, due to their high cost, silicone paints are used in most cases for decoration.

The second group is alkyd paints.

The binder base of alkyd paints is alkyd resin... Alkyd paints are divided into enamel and oil paints. They are used for painting surfaces made of wood, metal or plastered. They are environmentally friendly, waterproof, lightfast.

The basis of oil paints is drying oil, and thinners - gasoline, turpentine, solvent naphtha or white spirit. These paints are quite cheap, but they dry for a long time and at the same time release harmful substances. Therefore, they are used for outdoor work. In addition, over time, the surface painted with oil paint turns yellow, which is a significant disadvantage of these paints.

Enamel paints have a varnish base, so the surface painted with them takes on a beautiful glossy appearance. These paints are used for painting metal, wood, plastered and putty surfaces, devices. They are used for indoor and outdoor work, dry quickly (especially nitro-enamel paints), have lightfastness, water resistance, increased resistance to corrosion.

The third group is silicate paints.

V silicate paints the basis is liquid glass, so they can be attributed to mineral paints. They are diluted with water. Characteristics of these paints: air and vapor permeability, resistance to temperature changes, looseness, permeability to moisture. Silicate paints have poor compatibility with other types of paints, so they cannot be used to paint surfaces previously painted with acrylic or alkyd paints and vice versa. In addition, when working with silicate paints, it is imperative to protect the skin and eyes, because they contain alkali. Silicate paints do not protect surfaces from moisture, but if the humidity in the walls is higher than atmospheric, that is, with poor waterproofing of the foundation, they can be very useful. Silicate paints cannot be used to paint metal, stone, glass and ceramic surfaces, but alkaline (plastered) surfaces can be painted. These paints have a limited range of colors due to their alkali content.

Paint marking and type of film-forming substrates.

Paints are divided into 4 groups according to the type of film-forming base used in their production: alkyd, emulsion, silicate and adhesive. Each can of paint has its own marking, containing 2 letters and several numbers. The letters indicate the type of film-forming base used for this paint. Table 1 shows the labeling of film-forming substrates.

Table 1

Marking

Type of film-forming bases

Polyamides

Polyacrylates

Polyacrylic copolymers

Cellulose acetate

Bitumen and pitches

Polyvinyl acetals

Polyvinylbuterals

Vinyls and vinyl acetates

Polyvinyl acetal copolymers

Glyphthal resins

Idiencumarone resin

Rosin

Organosilicon resins

Copolymers of carbinol

Vegetable oils

Melominoalkids

Alkyd and oil styrene

Urea-formaldehyde resins

Nitrocellulose

Pentaphthalic resins

Saturated polyesters

Polyurethanes

Phenolalkides

Cresol formaldehyde

Phenolic oil resins

Fluoroplastics

Poly- and perchlorovinyl

Vinyl chloride copolymers

Epoxy resins

Polyethylene and polyisobutylene

Epoxy ester resins

Ethyl cellulose

1-2 numbers following the letters in the marking indicate the scope of application of this paint, and the rest of the numbers - the serial number. Table 2 shows the marking of the areas of application of various types of paint.

table 2

Marking

Spheres of application of paints

Weatherproof

Resistant indoors

For the preservation of metal products

Resistant to hot water

Special purpose (for example, for fur, leather)

Resistant to petroleum products

Resistant to aggressive environments

Heat resistant

Has electrical insulating properties

Semi-finished products, primers, varnishes

Putties

Exceptions in labeling are oil paints... They are designated by the letters MA (oil paint), the first number after the letters indicates the scope of this paint, and the second number indicates the type of drying oil used as its base. Table 3 shows the marking of the types of drying oils used.