FINISHES

PAINTS AND

BUILDING MATERIALS
VOLUME - 02
INTRODUCTION
Paints and coatings already existed in the earliest civilizations of mankind.
It provides aesthetics and is an avenue for most iconic artworks ever
made. Despite it being an old invention countless innovations on these
products continue to emerge. As humanity progressed, paints and
coatings have also developed. It has become an important part of most
things we use. From the walls we lean on, the cars we drive, the street
signs we look at to the fine images we see in the museum and murals we
pass by. It is without a doubt paint has become a pillar of humanity.

Definition
Paint is the general term for liquid that is used to add color to the surface
of an object by covering it with a pigmented or colored coating. A more
exact definition of paint is simply pigment suspended to a liquid medium
known as vehicle. Pigment is what gives paint its color and opacity.
Coatings is a more general term in which paint is categorized into, this
includes lacquer, varnish, etc.
 Importance
Paint is used to impart color to objects and surfaces but there is more to
paint other than its color. Paint together with coatings provide objects or
surfaces the needed protection from various external factors. Most
paints offer anti-corrosion property on metals, abrasive resistance, heat
resistance, insulation and many more. These imparted properties provide
objects added utility, convenience, aesthetics, and functions.

History
The first ever recorded use of paint was back 20,000 to 25,000 years
ago incaves in France and Humans. Cave paintings depicted ancient
human activity and animals. Over the time paints are personalized and
hand crafted by artisans and painters. Made from various essences of
nature such as plants, animals and minerals. It was in the 1700 just
before the industrial revolution paint was produced in bulk. The first
paint mill was made in Boston. Since then, paint has become one of
the agents in industrial revolution and now a common commodity in
housing, construction, and manufacturing
 PROPERTIES OF PAINTS.
a) Wearability.
b) Covering ability.
c) Ease of cleaning.
d) Protection of under layers.
e) Environmentally friendly.
f) Improves aesthetic.
g) Practical and cost effective

COMPOSITION OF PAINTS.
In general all paints appear similar in looks – but – there are certain
differences which define their QUALITY

Basic paint ingredients can comprise of:

Solvents
Pigments
Resins
Additives

Solvents (also called carriers) are the liquids that transport the pigments
and resins from the brush or roller onto the wall. In latex paint the main
solvent is water; in oil-based paint it’s primarily mineral spirits. These
evaporate as the paint dries.

Pigments are finely ground particles that give paint its opacity and ability
to “hide” the surface it’s applied to

Resins (or binders) are the ingredients that hold the pigments and
colorants in place after the paint dries

Additives are the chemicals that affect everything from mildew resistance

to workability.
QUALITY OF PAINTS:
SOLVENTS
High-quality paint has more total solids (pigments plus resins)
and fewer solvents than lower-quality paint. So while the two
may go on with the same thickness, when the solvents
evaporate, a high-quality paint leaves a thicker, tougher paint
film.
Low-quality paint has fewer solids and more solvents. Once the
solvents evaporate, the thinner paint film left behind is less
durable and doesn’t cover as well. You’ll spend more time and
money repainting to achieve the performance of a high-quality
paint
PIGMENTS AND RESINS

High-quality paint has better pigments, so it hides better

AND
High-quality paint has better resins so it sticks better and lasts longer

Better Pigments Mean Better Coverage

The pigments in the high-quality paint on the left are smaller
and purer, so they do a better job of filling in and blocking the
color of the surface they’re applied over

Better Resins Means Better Adhesion

The resins in the high-quality paint are smaller and better able to
cling to each other and penetrate the surface they're applied to.
This means a stronger, longer-lasting paint film.
High-quality paint has better resins so it sticks better and lasts longer
Resins—sometimes called binders—are the plastic-like ingredients in
paint that bind together to create a film, encapsulating the pigments
ADDITIVES
• improves application and protective qualities
• high-quality paints contain more or better additives

EXAMPLES:
Thickeners: slightly slow down and
smooth out your brush stroke so you
leave an even, thick coat of pain
Surfactants: help paint soak into the
wood and adhere better as well as help
stabilize the color and viscosity of paint.
Mildewcide: limit mildew growth after
the paint has been applied (at least for a
few years).
FINISH PAINTS
The two types of paints used: ALKYDS AND LATEX
Alkyd – solvent based (oil based)
The term "Oil based"  is used to refer to paints that have a
linseed oil or Alkyd base. 'Alkyd" is a synthetic oil base.
These paints require a solvent such as mineral spirits for
thinning and clean up. Oil or Alkyd based paints are almost
exclusively considered "enamels" due to their hard durable
gloss or semigloss finish and are typically used for coating
windows, doors, and woodwork trim. ( color will yellow or
darken over time )

The term "Enamel" is normally associated with paints that

have some gloss to the finish. Enamels are formulated with
higher concentrations of resin as they are intended to be
subjected to more wear and tear. 

Latex - water based

provides an excellent finish, while being an easier paint to use. Latex
paint cleans up with soap and water, dries quickly, has less odor, is
non-flammable, easy to touch up, they remain more flexible and
allow moisture to evaporate through the film thus reducing
blistering, cracking and peeling. 

Inexpensive latex paints use softer vinyl resins (binders) and more
water in the formulation while the more durable of the latex paints
use 100% acrylic resins and less water
EMULSIONS. An emulsion comprises of two unmixable liquid,
the one being dispersed in the other in the form of fine
droplets. In emulsion paints the pigments are finally dispersed
in water so as to form an emulsion. Emulsion paints are water
thinned and are easy to apply with brushes and remove
splashes. The most commonly used emulsion paint is polyvinyl
acetate base (PVA), this substance being a synthetic resin. The
paint show a mat like finish.

ACRYLIC or SEMI – GLOSS EMULSION - These paints are

based on acrylic emulsion and can be thinned with
water. They are used for painting of interior surfaces.
PROPERTITIES OF EMULSION PAINTS:
a) These are easy to apply with brushes or roller and
give a fine finish.
b) These are generally used for internally, and for
non-absorbent surfaces.
c) They can be washed from 3 to 7 days after
application.
d) They do not adhere to oily and greasy surfaces.
e) They are free from persistent swell while drying
and dry rapidly.

USE OF EMULSION PAINT: Paints of this kind are used for

decorating walls and ceilings. These are not suitable for the
use on wood work, except as an under coat. The normal
covering capacity of such paint is about 14.0 sqm. Per liter.
Emulsion paints are also known as plastic paints or Latex paint.
DISTEMPERS.
• Distempers are also termed as water paints.
• These are similar to oil paints with the difference that the base in
this case is not white lead but instead whiting or chalk is used to
serve this purpose.
• Similarly vehicle used is not oil but clear water is used in its place.
Distempers are available in the form of powder. They are known as
dry distempers.
• Dry distempers are the cheapest form of paints. It contains about 90
to 95 % of whiting and rest of glue.
• Though cheap, yet not withstand washing and hence is not suited
for surfaces which are subjected to the action of water.
• distemper is available in the form of pest and are made thin by
adding clean and clear water before use. These consist of an
emulsion of an oil and water in which suitable pigments are added.
• When the distemper is subjected to the action of weather , water
evaporates leaving behind a thin film which presents a colourful and
decorative appearance.

APPLICATION OF DISTEMPER:
• Distempers may be applied on newly plastered walls or on walls
which have previously white or colour washed.
• Before applying, the plastered surfaces should be perfectly dry
and free from any surface defect.
• The distempers are the is one which applied with a brush cross-
wise followed by up & down strokes.
• A good distempered surface is one which does not show
“Crazing” on the surface.

USE OF DISTEMPERS
Distempers are usually applied for interior works for presenting a
pleasing coloured appearance. These are not used for the surfaces
which remain wet for most of the day time, such as bath rooms,
kitchens etc.
CEMENT PAINTS.
These are very economical, durable and decorative
paints which are made with the base of white Portland
cement. These paints also contain varying proportions of
hydrated lime, colouring pigments and hygroscopic salts.
A small quantity of aluminium stearate is also added to
act as water repellent. Cement paint can be used, both,
for exterior or interior purposes. They are available in
powder form and require mixing of water only.

PROPERTITIES OF CEMENT PAINT:

a) Cement paint is a fine homogeneous powder which
is readily mixable with water.
b) It can be applied by brush or sprayer.
c) It gives a smooth mat finished appearance without
any brush marks.
d) It provides a hard, durable, waterproof coating
which resists the penetration of dampness.
e) It does not flake or peel off and is un-effected by
climate conditions.
f) It can also be washed.

USES OF CEMENT PAINTS: These paints can be used as a

durable and decorative product for cement plasterd walls
and other surfaces of residential buildings as well as public
buildings etc.
ENAMEL PAINTS. Enamel paints are oil based paints and contain
white lead or zinc white oil, petroleum spirit and resinous
matter. Now a days these paints are usually based on titanium
white. They dry slowly and form a hard and durable surface.
Surfaces painted with enamel paints are not affected by acids,
alkalies, hot and cold water and steam etc. These paints are
nontoxic. They can be thinned with white spirit. Alkyd and other
resins have largely replaced oil, as a medium for the pigments.
Enamel paints are usually available as readymade paints.
USE OF ENEMEL PAINTS:
a) These paints are used for internal and external use.
b) These are used for protecting timber and other timber
products.
c) These are also used for painting doors and window
frames.
SURFACE PREPATION AND PROCESS OF PAINTING :
• Previously painted or new wooden surfaces must be properly
sanded to remove dust or grease.
• Apply wood primer by brush, after thinning to given ratio by
recommended thinner. ( BODY)
• Allow it to dry for 6 – 8 hr. Then apply Putty or Lambi.
• Sand the applied Putty with no.180 sand paper and then apply
second coat of wood primer.
• Now the wooden surface is ready for painting with the top
coat.
Enamel paints are normally applied by brushing although they
can also be sprayed. The drying time of the enamel paints are
longer, hence care must be taken to ensure a dust free
environment while the paint film is drying. Two coats of paint are
sufficient in most cases, however, if the paint shade is darker
than new shade, an additional coat of paint is recommended.
PUTTY
• These base coats applied to walls before painting;
• they provide a protective layer for the expensive paint.
• Putties are generally non-hygroscopic and resist moisture giving
more life to the painting surfaces.
• Not only do they provide smooth surfaces by levelling
undulations, cracks etc but also are helpful in increasing the
coverage of the paints applied.

ALUMINIUM PAINT
• These are paints containing Aluminium blended in a resin base.
• Despite its name, aluminium paint is actually used to paint a
variety of materials, including metals, wood, and masonry.
• It is long-lasting and durable, and is one of the best types of paint
to use around oil, grease, and chemicals.
• The painted surface offers realistic aluminium finishes, and is
highly resistant to rust and corrosion.

TEXTURED PAINTS:
• Texture paints are used to create to desired visual effects on
the walls.
• Usually applied by brushes, rollers, putty knives, trowels and
other applications resulting in a variety of patterns.
• Other paints can be applied on the textures to create
desired effects. Sometimes, texture paints are tinted prior to
application, giving the desired colour. Texture paints also
help in covering undulations and levelling surfaces.
LEVELS of GLOSS:
The sheen of a paint is the amount of light reflected by the surface
of a paint finish.

There are four basic sheens: flat, satin, semi gloss and gloss.

Flat Paints 
• Matte finish with non-reflective properties
• helps in hiding surface imperfections,
• and is normally used for ceilings and walls in areas not subjected to a
lot of wear and

Satin Finish  also know as eggshell

finish,
provides a soft luster sheen similar to
that of an eggshell.
A satin finish provides a harder
surface finish which is more durable
and more stain resistant than a flat
finish.
This durability makes satin paint a
good choice for walls in high activity
areas. 
Semi gloss Paints 
are very durable, they are easier to clean, and are more stain
resistant than satin finish paints.
Semi gloss paints are most often used on heavy wear surfaces or
areas that are frequently cleaned such as kitchens and
bathrooms. Semi gloss paint is also used on wood trim and
cabinets. 

Gloss Paint 
Gloss is a shiny finish designed for woodwork and it reflects
lots of light 
is a harder, more durable, more stain resistant paint finish.
It is easier to clean than all the other paint finishes.
Gloss finishes generally make surface imperfections more
noticeable.
Gloss finishes are the best choice for heavy wear areas like
kitchens, bathrooms, furniture and cabinets, floors, stairs,
handrails, high traffic doors and trim. 
Painting process:
1. Clean the surface (walls) - Remove dust, dirt, and grease spots
(which can ruin a smooth finish) with water, a little mild
dishwashing detergent, and a cellulose sponge. Rinse walls with
clean water to remove the soap residue.
2. Fill uneven surfaces – gaps etc with putty
3. Mask the windows/door frames or any surface not to be painted
– using a masking tape – remove the tape before wall dries
4. When the walls are completely dry, tape where the trim meets
the wall. Paint the moldings and the door and window frames 
5. Use primer paint
6. Apply one coat of paint via Roller or Brush
7. Check for uneven surfaces
8. Apply second coat (as needed)
9. Apply paint with brush to those areas where roller cannot reach
Common Paint Film Problems/Defects

Mildew
occurs in moist humid conditions ( bathrooms, kitchens, laundry
rooms) when using alkyd or oil based paint or lower quality paint. Can
occur due to failure to prime wood before painting and not
successfully removing mildew from the surface before repainting

Cracking and Peeling

occurs if the paint had inadequate adhesion and flexibility,
overspreading or thinning of the paint, inadequate surface
preparation or applying to bare wood without primer, and
hardening and fragility as the paint ages.
Bleeding

Discolouration of paint film

due to pigment seeping to
the surface from undercoats
or gum from knots in timber

Blistering

formation of small areas of

swelling on the surface caused by
painting in the direct heat of the
sun or from trapped moisture,
seeping through to the surface or
from corrosion sites.

Chalking

appearance of fine powder on

the paint film due to weathering
causing the resin to break down,
or painting over a porous
surface.

Cissing

Shrinkage or contraction of the

new coating away from area which
is contaminated by grease, oil or
polish ( particularly silicone types.)
Crazing
irregular cracking of surface film
due to age application of the paint
over an oily or wet undercoat.

Efflorescence

formation of a series of open blisters

in a paint film due to soluble salts
rising to the surface from brick,
plaster and cement objects.

Flaking

occurs when the paint peels away

from the surface due to a crack or
joint in the film. It may be caused
by use of an unsuitable undercoat,
or shrinkage/ expansion of the
surface.

Sagging
Formation of a waterfall – like
appearance on the surface due to ,
too much paint being applie in one
coat.