FT NEWS

Interior emulsion paints are overtaking all the other categories of paint that are available in the market because they come with superlative qualities. From durability to aesthetic appeal, here are five reasons why emulsion paint has emerged as the most preferred paint for the interiors of a home.

1. It is a water-based paint

• Emulsion paint is a water-based paint, where water is used as a medium to apply colour pigment onto the surface to be painted. After the application of paint, the water evaporates and the paint coating hardens by the process of oxidation.
• Being a water-based paint, emulsion paint is fast-drying and is easy to apply. However, the paint dries slowly in humid conditions.
• Another advantage is that the paint brushes and rollers can be washed with water, without any cleaning agent, when they are still wet.

2. Has low levels of VOCs

• Since harmful solvents are not added to emulsion paint, they have very low levels of VOCs (volatile organic compounds). These paints do not release harmful organic chemicals into the air while drying, which also makes them eco-friendly.
• Emulsion paints are non-flammable.
• Another plus is that emulsion paints are odour-free.

3. Has high resistance to sunlight
 

• Emulsion paint neither cracks when exposed to sunlight nor does it become brittle over a period of time.
• Good quality emulsion paint contains non-yellowing agents that provide effective UV protection that prevents the paint from fading.

4. Good resistance to moisture

• Emulsion paint is resistant to humidity, which makes it highly suitable for areas like the bathrooms, kitchens and outdoor balconies.
• Emulsion wall paint is easy to clean and can be washed or wiped with a cloth and water, as it does not peel off when wet.
• These paints come with good antimicrobial qualities, therefore they are highly resistant to mould and mildew.

5. Available in various finishes

Modern emulsion paints come with vinyl and acrylic resins as additives. These cross-linking polymers create a tough and non-porous film on the painted surface on the wall in various finishes, such as matte, satin and silk finish.

• Matte-finish emulsions give a non-shiny and non-reflective finish. This finish is good at hiding imperfections such as dents or patches that might be present on the walls and ceilings. Matte-finish paint is not washable but it can be wiped with a damp cloth.
• Satin-finish paint has a semi-gloss sheen that resembles the finish of an eggshell. This finish can be gently sponged or lightly washed so as to get rid of stains.
• Silk-finish emulsions have a highly reflective surface but on the downside it highlights the imperfections of the walls and ceiling. This finish is one of the most durable finishes, which is easily washable, hence it is best suited for areas like the stairways, bathrooms and kitchen