Emulsion: The Different Types & Where To Use
Credit: Giorgio Possenti/Vega MG
Emulsion is a highly popular paint for walls and ceilings, due to the fact that it is water-based and therefore it’s quite easy to apply, has little smell and dries quickly. It’s also available in an assortment of colours and shades, and can be applied directly onto walls that have been previously painted, or on to certain wall coverings such as textured wallpaper.
Usually, emulsion paint comes in two finishes – matt and silk. Matt has a flat non-reflective appearance, which is useful in disguising patchy surfaces. Matt emulsion can mark easily and is not washable, but new wipe-able matt paints are being introduced all the time. Silk emulsion has a shiny finish, reflects the light and can be washed easily. Emulsion paints can be applied with a brush, roller or paint pad, but it’s not really intended for painting on to wood. Nonetheless, it is increasingly used as a base for paint effects on furniture, but does need a coat of varnish as a protective seal.
A thick emulsion paint with good covering power if applied carefully, but it shouldn’t be spread too far. It will cover surfaces which are in a good condition and of similar colour, and – as the name suggests – this can be done in just one coat. One coat emulsions usually come in satin or mid-sheen finish.
Credit: Giorgio Possenti/Vega MG
Kitchen and Bathroom emulsion paints are specifically designed for areas of high humidity and give a tougher scrub-able surface. They contain moisture, grease and grime-resisting properties and can help control the problems associated with condensation. Kitchen and Bathroom emulsions usually come in a mid or soft sheen.
These are new ranges of paints suitable for painting on to walls, ceilings, wood, and other home surfaces. They are available in two finishes – matt for the solid flat colour and satin for light reflective subtle sheen.
These are also often called acrylic paints. They are similar to emulsion paints in that they are water-based, quick drying and low odour, but their advanced formulation means they have the extra appeal of being tougher and washable with added durability – suitable as paint for fascia wood and a matt paint for metal.
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