Acrylic paints: types and scope of their application

Today, there are several types of paints that are popular with consumers. One of the most popular are modern acrylic mixtures, which have many positive qualities. Today we will take a closer look at this finishing material, as well as with the direct scope of its application.

Acrylic paints are called water-dispersion paints based on polyacrylates and their polymers acting as film-formers.

The popularity of the specified finishing material is due to the fact that it can be used for both internal and external finishing works. Such mixtures are diluted with water, and different colors are added to them (pigment pastes). However, once they dry completely, acrylic paints become waterproof and indelible.

Today, many consumers are turning to acrylic coatings because they are quite reliable, durable and, of course, attractive. In addition, the choice of different colors of acrylic compounds is very rich, so it is possible to choose the best option for any interior.

For finishing work, a dye mixture is usedbased on organic solvents and water-dispersion components. The first option is best suited for the design of building facades, as it is more wear-resistant.

As for the interior design, here it is worth using water-based paint. Such mixtures are presented in a rich color palette. Each specific color is marked with a special marking, making it easy to choose the right shade.

If the shade of acrylic paint does not suit you, then it is quite possible to "fix" it. For example, you can make the composition lighter with the help of special acrylic white. It is enough to add them to the mixture, and the shade will change.

Acrylic paint is one of the most popular finishing materials today.

This demand is explained by a number of positive qualities that such coatings have:

• First of all, the versatility of acrylic paints should be emphasized. They can be applied to almost any surface, be it concrete, brick, plywood, drywall or plastic. In addition, they are used in a wide variety of applications. For example, they can decorate a car or paint the doors in a room.

• Such mixtures are characterized by low gas permeability.
• Acrylic paints are not afraid of exposure to aggressive chemicals.
• These finishing materials are environmentally friendly. There are no dangerous and harmful compounds in their composition, as, for example, in oil versions. That is why acrylic paints can be safely used in decorating children's rooms.
• Such finishing materials do not have pungent and unpleasant odors even after complete drying.That is why it is much easier and more pleasant to work with them.
• Many buyers turn to acrylic mixes because they dry quickly enough. Of course, this fact is also influenced by the thickness of the applied paint layer, however, as a rule, these mixtures become dry within a couple of hours.
• A wide selection of colors is another positive factor affecting the popularity of acrylic paints. Thanks to the rich assortment, such a mixture can be easily selected for any ensemble.

• Acrylic based paints are moisture resistant.
• Dirt and dust do not accumulate on these finishing materials, which is why they will have to be cleaned only as needed.
• Acrylic paint is highly durable. It is quite difficult to damage it.
• It is flexible and pliable to work with.
• Another significant advantage of acrylic paint is its durability. In this case, this finish is ahead of oil and alkyd products.

Despite such a rich list of positive qualities, acrylic paints also have their drawbacks:

• The main disadvantage noted by many consumers is the high cost of this finishing material.
• In modern stores, a lot of unsuccessful copies of acrylic paints are sold, which are passed off as genuine material. Such mixtures are of low quality and do not last long.
• Acrylic paints are susceptible to freezing, so they lose many of their properties at low temperatures.
• These finishes are not solvent resistant.
• Cannot be combined with other film formers.

High-quality acrylic-based paints are often used to decorate facades, as well as wooden, concrete and brick surfaces.

Acrylic paints are also great for interior decoration. They can be used not only to decorate walls, but also ceilings. Many homeowners use these mixes to color their wallpaper. Of course, this type of finishing is possible only if we are talking about special painting canvases.

Also acrylic paints are used in painting. Often, with their help, various patterns are applied to different bases. It can be a car decoration or even nails.

There are several varieties of acrylic paints. Each type has its own characteristics and performance characteristics. You definitely need to know about them before you go to the store to buy this finishing material.

First of all, all acrylic paints differ in the field of application for:

• for outdoor work;
• front;
• compositions intended for painting (most often produced in tubes);
• special automobile.

External facade compositions contain various additives, thanks to which they are not afraid of exposure to direct sunlight, as well as high humidity and abrasion.

Interior mixes are less protected from moisture and moisture. However, they also have a number of advantages. For example, they are very easy to apply on different bases, do not wash off, and also serve for many years without causing any hassle and without losing their attractiveness.

For painting various surfaces indoors, it is recommended to use special options. Also, in modern stores of building materials, you can find universal mixtures that can be used for both outdoor and indoor work.

Interior options are exclusively based on water dispersion. They are environmentally friendly and absolutely safe for both the human body and the environment. In the decoration of walls or ceilings, matte coatings are most often used. As for wooden bases or wet rooms, it is better to use the original gloss here.

Acrylic paints have been used for car painting for quite some time. They are often used to cover the car body to give a more aesthetic or original appearance.

Acrylic paints for metal, as a rule, are based on organic components, and therefore are more expensive than other options. A distinctive feature is that before applying them, it is necessary to put a special primer on the base. It is needed not only to ensure high adhesion of coatings, but also to protect the metal from corrosion. In addition, acrylic paint lays down much better on the ground, and its consumption is noticeably reduced.

As for the colors intended for painting, they are found in stores at least as universal options. Such compositions are perfect for painting pictures. In many ways, they are superior to the good old oil paints.

Of the positive qualities of such mixtures, one can single out:

• Long service life.
• Immunity to sunlight.
• Preservation of an attractive appearance for many years without the appearance of yellowness and cracks.
• Water resistance.
• Ease of application to any substrate, be it fabric, paper, glass or ceramic.
• Brightness and color saturation.

Specialty polyacrylic resins have many similarities to nitrocellulose materials. In the production of paints and varnishes, they began to be used relatively recently.

The distinctive characteristics of polyacrylic resins allow them to be used in a wide variety of applications.

As for paints and varnishes, here it is worth indicating their varieties:

• Cold drying coatings. They are based on thermoplastic polymers.
• Drying coatings. They are based on thermosetting polymers.
• Water-soluble mixtures.
• Naturally dried water-based emulsion formulations.

Similar specimens are produced on a water basis. They are in many ways superior to polyvinyl acetate and other water-based mixtures. For example, they are highly water and weather resistant. In addition, water-based formulations retain their attractive appearance for a long time.

The composition of such coloring mixtures contains the following components:

• monomers of acrylic copolymers.
• Auxiliary monomers.
• Water.
• Pigments and various fillers.
• Various additives.

The main characteristics of the water-based paint are provided by acrylic copolymer monomers. Various additives are necessary in order to make the finishing material more reliable, strong and water-resistant as a result.

Pigments give the paint a particular color, and also increase the covering ability of the material. In addition, these components are necessary to increase the resistance of the finish to the effects of aggressive sunlight and other environmental factors.

In the role of colored pigments, as a rule, inexpensive chemical elements of inorganic origin act. These include oxide of chromium, iron, lead and other similar raw materials.

If we are talking about a snow-white high-quality composition, then rutile titanium dioxin is added to it. As for organic compounds, they are rarely used (more often in the form of special pigment pastes for tinting).

In the role of additional components in water-based mixtures there are:

• Special emulsifiers and special surfactants;
• Initiators;
• Organic solvents;
• Stabilizers;
• Biocides;
• Defoamers.

If we divide acrylic paint and varnish coatings according to their intended purpose, then the following varieties can be distinguished:

• Finishing materials for a wooden base;
• For different types of fabrics;
• Acrylic paints for working on glass surfaces;
• For concrete;
• Elastomeric mixtures suitable for finishing surfaces subject to various deformations in the form of bends or twists;
• Spray paints in small cans.

Acrylic interior paints are wildly popular because they look attractive and can transform the decor in a particular room.

Recently, pearlescent paint has been especially popular, which resembles silver or gold with its unobtrusive shine. Its distinctive feature is that it can be safely used in both artsy and classic or modern styles.

For example, in an elegant classic interior with natural wood furniture and decorative dark sculptures, delicate chocolate mother-of-pearl walls decorated with large paintings with carved frames will look amazing.

As for modern styles, pearlescent acrylic paint can become a real highlight of the interior. So, in a futuristic black and white bedroom, the space behind the bed can be trimmed with a black mixture. This area will look very stylish and fashionable.

White pearlescent paints are universal. They look organic in many styles, refreshing them and making them much brighter. Against the background of such walls, all pieces of furniture and decor will stand out, and the space itself will seem more spacious and free.

Glossy acrylic paint is another popular option. It looks very impressive and expensive. It can be used not only for wall decoration, but also for ceiling decoration.

Glossy surfaces look great in modern and progressive ensembles. Against the background of such finishing materials, pieces of furniture using glass or metal (painted or chrome-plated) will look especially organic and stylish. Moreover, if you install enough lighting fixtures in a room with glossy paint, then it will seem much more spacious and roomy.

When choosing a similar finishing material for the decoration of a particular room, you should remember that you should not overload the space with a large number of decorative details. If there are too many different (no less bright) elements against the background of unusual walls with sparkles, then the ensemble may seem too colorful.

As for the standard colors, the following attractive palettes are most often used for the design of various interiors:

• Beige and cream;
• Caramel and light chocolate;
• Black and white;
• Blues and blues, as well as greens, purples and lilacs;
• Orange and yellow;
• Red and burgundy.

So, for a modest small space, beige, white, cream, light caramel and milk will be successful colors. These colors are easily soiled, but acrylic paint is washable, so you shouldn't avoid them.

If you are decorating a spacious room, then you can use dark palettes in it. However, even in such conditions, there should not be too many gloomy shades. Dark gray, dark blue or black walls should be diluted with contrasting or lighter pastel furniture, sufficient lighting fixtures, and bright decorative elements.

In the case of a children's room, preference should be given to moderately bright and cheerful colors:

• pale pink, peach, light purple, yellow or orange walls in a cozy corner of a little girl.
• blues, blues, purples, lilacs, browns or greens in a boy's room.

Today there are several of the most popular and well-known companies that produce high-quality and durable acrylic paints. Below is an overview of the most popular brands.

This large manufacturer specializes in the production of various paints and varnishes, which are designed both for finishing walls and ceilings indoors, and for facades and fences outside. All Dekart products are of unsurpassed quality, as they are made from safe raw materials.

Prices for the products of this manufacturer range from very affordable to high. Dekart interior acrylic paints are presented in a large assortment. Each consumer will be able to find for himself the composition of the desired shade.

"Tex" is one of the largest manufacturers specializing in the production of high-quality paints and varnishes in St. Petersburg and Russia as a whole.

The assortment of this large company has excellent acrylic paints that are collecting positive reviews on the web. Consumers, first of all, note the remarkable adhesion of these mixtures to any substrates, as well as their durability and resistance to mechanical damage.

However, there are also rare responses from buyers who claim that the acrylic paint brand "Tex" purchased by them, in fact, is not washable and suffers from constant contact with water. What is the reason for this problem is difficult to say. Perhaps some buyers purchase a low-quality substitute for finishing material or incorrectly apply it on their own.

This company is engaged in the production and wholesale of good quality paints and varnishes since 2008. A relatively young brand has already managed to win the respect of consumers, since its products serve for a long time and do not bring any problems during their presence on the walls or ceilings.

Areal + acrylic interior paints are relatively inexpensive and are sold in large plastic buckets. They do not smell and look aesthetically pleasing. Many pieces can be used for wall decoration and ceiling decoration. Also in the assortment of this manufacturer there is a huge number of high-quality facade paints in different colors.

This trademark belongs to the Tikkurilla concern, located in St. Petersburg. Products manufactured under the Joker brand are very popular among modern buyers due to affordable prices and a large selection of colors.

A distinctive feature of this product is its hypoallergenic base. That is why such paints can be safely used by allergy sufferers "with experience" and people suffering from asthma. As for the direct composition of the acrylic compounds of this brand, it was developed jointly with the Association for Allergic and Asthmatic Diseases of Finland.

This renowned German manufacturer has been producing high quality and durable paint since 1885. During its existence, the Caparol brand has managed to gain worldwide popularity and the love of consumers, since its products are of unsurpassed quality.

This Slovenian manufacturer produces durable and wear-resistant paints. Its range includes interior mixes for walls and ceilings.

All Belinka products are designed for surfaces subject to maximum wear. Paints from this manufacturer are resistant to abrasion, mechanical damage and many other external factors. In addition, high-quality Belinka acrylic paints are not afraid of aggressive chemicals.

Oikos is a renowned Italian manufacturer of quality paints and varnishes that are environmentally friendly and perform well. Acrylic paints are high-tech and very convenient to work with.

Oikos products are wildly popular not only in Italy, but all over the world. This is due not only to the highest quality of goods, but also to their rich assortment. The company offers beautiful and flexible paints in a wide variety of colors (over 2000). In addition, consumers have an excellent opportunity to obtain a unique effect of finishing materials such as silk, mother-of-pearl marble or velvet.

This manufacturer offers a choice of buyers of decorative and protective paint and varnish coatings. The Sigma-Color assortment includes high-quality acrylic paints for facades. Proprietary blends are not afraid of harsh climatic conditions and are water resistant.

If you want to buy a beautiful interior paint with an acrylic base, then this manufacturer can offer excellent washable compositions of various shades. According to the assurances of representatives of "Sigma-Color", their products are durable, economical consumption, high vapor permeability and quick drying. In addition, these acrylic paints are available at affordable prices.

Various components are used to dissolve acrylic paints. The easiest option is to add a certain amount of water to the mixture. This method is the most common, because it is water that is present in the composition of acrylic-based mixtures.

It is necessary to take into account the fact that after it dries, such paint forms a special protective film that provides the finish with a waterproof effect. For this reason, all tools and fixtures should be cleaned as soon as possible after finishing work before the paint has dried.

Using this method, it is possible to change many characteristics of the coloring composition, after which the painted surface will acquire an original glossy or matte sheen.

To dilute acrylic paint correctly and not harm it, you should act in accordance with the following recommendations:

• a 1: 1 ratio of paint and water will result in an optimal mass that will perfectly fit on any substrate and will serve as a base coat for further painting.
• Application of paint to which two parts of water have been added will produce a very thin layer. It will evenly saturate the surface of the base.

• The amount of water with which you dilute acrylic paint depends largely on the type and thickness of the paint layer you plan to receive. Keep in mind that the thinner the layer, the less paintwork you need in your work. For such methods, you need to add a little more water.
• If you want to dilute an already dried acrylic mixture, then first you need to grind it thoroughly into powder. After that, the bucket (or other utensil), in which the composition is located, must be filled with hot boiled water.When the water cools down, drain it from the dishes and repeat the same procedure again.

• After that, the excess water must be drained again, and the paint must be mixed. This composition should not be used to paint the most important areas in the room, since dried acrylic paint loses many of its positive qualities and useful properties. However, for painting outbuildings, such a mixture is ideal.

Acrylic paints cover substrates quite easily, especially if the home craftsman is ready for the process and is familiar with the intricacies of the work:

• First you need to prepare the base. If we are talking about finishing the ceiling or wall, then they must be cleaned of any contamination (even the smallest).
• In addition, the surfaces of the bases must be perfectly flat. If they have irregularities and other defects, then it is imperative to get rid of them with a putty, otherwise the paint will accentuate the damaged areas.
• When the putty is completely dry, it must be carefully wiped off, and then proceed to the next stage of work.
• It is equally important to remove the previous topcoat and prime the surface. This stage should not be neglected, since high-quality soil will have a beneficial effect on acrylic paint, extend its service life and protect it from mold and mildew.

• Previous coatings can be removed from substrates with a conventional trowel. This process should not be neglected, because the presence of even the smallest particles can make painting the walls or ceiling impossible.
• Prepare the entire tool in advance.

To apply acrylic paint, you will need the following tools:

1. brush;
2. roller;
3. container for paint;
4. ladder;
5. acrylic paint itself.
6. It is necessary to start painting from the corners of the base. At first, it is better to use a brush, because a roller is hardly suitable for such work.
7. When you're done painting the corners, brush around the perimeter of the ceiling or walls. You can only handle the roller after completing these steps.
8. The first paint coat can be applied in any direction. However, the final painting must be done towards the windows. This simple technique allows you to achieve the aesthetic effect of a perfectly smooth surface.

In your work, keep in mind that acrylic paint dries quickly enough, so you need to finish the walls or ceiling in one day. Otherwise, the composition will dry out and lose most of its beneficial qualities.

High-quality acrylic mixtures are applied in just two common ways:

• with preliminary dilution with water or specialized mixtures;
• in the form of a paste (in this case, you will need to purchase a special thickener).

You can choose high-quality acrylic paint based on the following recommendations:

• first you need to decide on the color of the dye composition. For bedrooms, it is better to use calm and pacifying tones, for living rooms - brighter and more original ones, and laconic paint in cold shades is suitable for the kitchen.
• At the moment, in many hardware stores there are paints that have nothing to do with real acrylic mixtures. In order not to run into a gross fake, it is better to contact a well-known store that sells branded products. Such products are more expensive, but you should not chase too low a price - it may indicate a low quality of paint.

• If you plan to paint the walls or ceiling yourself, then you need to take care of the availability of all the tools and fixtures in advance. They should also be purchased at trusted retail outlets.
• For self-application of the coloring composition, you can use not only a standard brush or roller. Some users additionally buy an aerosol or spray in which they fill with acrylic paint and proceed to wall or ceiling decoration.

• Experts recommend carefully reading the information on the paint label. First of all, the buyer should be interested in such important parameters as resistance to washing and abrasion, color reliability and resistance to mold or mildew.

The listed properties of paints are indicated by numbers. For example, this illuminates the permissible number of brush cleanings (before the first damage occurs). Typically, this process can be repeated no more than 30 times. The color retention period is often indicated in the format of months.

If you buy paint that will have to constantly be in a damp room, then you need to pay special attention to its biological resistance.

An important role in the choice of paint is played by the time of its complete drying, which is also often indicated on the packaging. This parameter affects the speed of work execution. So, beautiful glossy mixtures dry faster than matte ones. For this they need only 25-45 minutes.

If you have to carry out all finishing work in conditions of too high or too low temperatures, then the drying time of the mixture may vary and become slightly longer. This is especially true for situations when the level of humidity is increased.

Another important parameter to look out for when choosing an acrylic paint is its viscosity level. An overly viscous mixture is applied very difficult, and if you plan to use not a roller, but a spray gun, then the whole process can be noticeably delayed and difficult. But do not think that watery and too thin acrylic will be the best solution. Such material will not have sufficient adhesion, and the walls will not be painted over with high quality. That is why it is recommended to buy acrylic-based dye mixtures, the viscosity of which is balanced and at the optimum average level.

Experts say that paints with special thixotropic additives are convenient and flexible to apply. If you find these elements in the composition of the mixture applied to the package, then you should not be suspicious of them. Thixotropic additives simplify the process of applying acrylic paint to a ceiling or wall. Thanks to them, the mixture does not leak, and its fluidity increases during the mixing process. If you have purchased a high-quality thixotropic paint, then it will not flow and drip from the instruments, but it will spread well and form a perfectly even polymer film.

For more information on acrylic paints, see the next video.