Now many people use paint for construction and decoration. Among the different types of this material, acrylic-based compositions are the most popular. They have won the trust of buyers for their durability and brightness. But acrylic-based paints can be presented in different forms. Therefore, it is necessary to know all their features and advantages in order to choose the right composition.
What it is?
The chemical composition of acrylic paints includes acrylic, a polymeric substance that is obtained during the cleavage of acrylic acid. For this, water is used in a mixture with ethanol or chloroform. The resulting substance will be completely transparent. It is a colorless synthetic substance.
Acrylic has good technical characteristics and a wide range of applications. Paints based on it are now used for both indoor and outdoor work. In addition, they are used in art painting. Such formulations can be diluted with water. Acrylic paints differ into types and types according to certain letter designations. So, many trains have the VD-AK marking and a digital index. This means "water-dispersible acrylic paint", followed by the number of the paint composition.
Acrylic paints are fairly durable and strong when dry, while their texture is light. Such compositions can have bright saturated shades, while they do not fade at all, as they are resistant to UV rays.
For the preparation of such paint, acrylic and dispersion plastic are also used. This composition is quite thick, therefore it is often dissolved with water. This type of paint coating is characterized by film formation. Thus, the painted surfaces will be protected from external factors, the paint will remain stable for a long time, and its color will not change.
Each acrylic paint consists of several elements:
- binder;
- filler;
- colored pigments;
- solvents and other additives.
Binder compounds connect all the components of the paint. Thanks to them, the adhesion of the coating to the surface on which they are applied is improved. Typically, the composition of the binders are presented in the form of a polymer dispersion. In turn, it is made from acrylic resins. This component determines the strength and long term and operation of the coating, its stability and indestructibility.
The higher the quality of the acrylic resin, the better the paint and varnish composition will be. Together, the elements create a substance with a dense structure, which has a homogeneous and high-quality composition.
The role of the filler is usually performed by a composition consisting of acrylic inclusions. It is necessary for the surface to be painted over well and with high quality. It makes the paint more viscous and also improves adhesion to painted surfaces. The filler holds the composition together and at the same time performs protective functions.
Colored pigments are necessary for the paint to have a certain shade. They are formulations in the form of a powder, which uniformly fills the entire composition. Pigments can be:
- organic;
- inorganic;
- finely dispersed pigments of piece origin;
- natural.
A component such as a solvent is necessary so that the paint is not too viscous and can cover surfaces well. With the help of various additives, manufacturers change various quality and functional characteristics of the paint, making it more viscous or, conversely, more liquid, change its brightness, as well as other properties.
This composition is made according to the following technology:
- first, an acrylic compound with a coloring pigment is placed in a large container;
- after that, connecting substances and solvents are added there, and then the composition undergoes intensive and high-quality mixing until a homogeneous consistency;
- after that, each manufacturer will check their products for compliance with quality standards;
- then, from a large container, the formulations are filled into small containers for sale.
Acrylic paints differ from others in that after being applied to the wall, the surface becomes completely matte. Moreover, the paint dries for a very short time: from 4 to 20 hours. In addition, this paint is quite easy to apply. After it, you do not have to wash the brushes for a long time. They can be washed easily and without unnecessary problems.
Features of the
Acrylic compositions are quite versatile, since they are used for external and internal finishing work, in the field of cosmetology and painting. They are quite popular with buyers as they have a number of advantages. There are some pros and cons of these formulations.
Of course, there will be an overwhelming majority of the advantages, because acrylic-based paints are the most popular and are in great demand both among craftsmen and among those who decided to make repairs with their own hands.
So, their advantages:
- All acrylic compounds meet safety requirements. They are completely environmentally friendly and harmless, do not pose a danger to human health. In the process of their manufacture, safe substances and compounds are used. Acrylic based paints do not emit toxic substances.
- Acrylic compounds also meet fire safety requirements. They are non-flammable since they do not contain flammable elements.
- Acrylic paints are easy to work with. This is due to the fact that they do not have a pungent odor. You can take your time with painting and carefully paint over all surfaces.
- Another huge benefit of acrylic paints is that they dry quickly on surfaces after application. Manufacturers even present options that dry in less than 30 minutes. Thus, painting will take several times less time and effort. But the exact duration of the drying process of the coating still depends on the thickness and number of layers applied to the surface.
- A big plus is the wide variety of colors and shades. Manufacturers present a variety of color palettes, so the compositions are used both for painting large surfaces and for creating patterns and decorative elements for finishing.
- The paint is flexible and therefore spreads well over the surface. This once again confirms the simplicity of self-painting many surfaces using these compositions.
- The coating is strong and durable. It almost does not wear off over the years due to a special protective film. The coating is easy to maintain. It can be washed and cleaned, and from this it is not destroyed. Surfaces painted with acrylic paints retain their original appearance for more than 10 years. Some manufacturers even claim a longer service life in the characteristics of such paints and varnishes.
- The film that forms after applying paint on the surface, if this composition is used for finishing work, helps to improve the microclimate in the room. It allows air to pass through well, but at the same time it is resistant to moisture and other factors. The film does not accumulate dirt and dust, since there are no large pores in it. Therefore, it is a pleasure to take care of such walls.
- Another clear advantage of acrylic is that it is widely used in various fields. This is due to the fact that paints are resistant to many influences, including light. They can be used for surface finishing in damp rooms and even outdoors in any weather.
- The versatility and practicality of these coatings allows you to use these paints and varnishes, combining them with other finishing materials. They can be applied to almost any surface, manufacturers do not indicate significant restrictions.
- Some formulations cannot be applied only to thin plastic, which is a disadvantage for some buyers.
- The paint can be applied in a variety of ways and with tools. For these purposes, rollers, spray guns, brushes are used.
- Acrylic is a frost-resistant coating, so surfaces painted in this way will not crack when exposed to frost. In addition, they perfectly tolerate cleaning with chemical detergents and other cleaning compounds.
But this coating also has some disadvantages:
- A small disadvantage is that when working with paint, it is necessary to observe a certain temperature regime. The coating should not be applied if the temperature is below +10 degrees.
- Another drawback - if you do not tightly close the lid with paint, when you finish working with it, then the composition will quickly become unusable. It will change its quality and appearance due to exposure to air.
Views
Acrylic paints for outdoor use are perfect for cladding the facades of buildings and structures. They have all the necessary technical characteristics. The compositions are well tolerated by the effects of high temperatures and frost, as well as sudden temperature changes.
Compositions for external finishing do not require the application of protective compounds before coating the facades with paint. In this way, time and labor can be saved.
Outdoor paints come in two varieties:
- based on organic solvent;
- based on water.
The first option is more suitable for those who carry out finishing in the cold season. Such acrylic fits well even at negative air temperatures. It adapts perfectly to any climate.
Formulations based on an aqueous substance are more sensitive, therefore, it is customary to use them only at positive air temperatures. Such a paint and varnish material contains acrylic polymers, fillers and a water base. Often marble chips are added to them. Thus, the surface of the facade will be reliably protected from rust, fungus and the influence of external factors.
Exterior acrylic paints are usually designed for different types of surfaces. This is necessary in order for the paint to lay down as efficiently as possible and soak the coating well. So, manufacturers present water-based formulations for concrete, plywood, wood, metal, foam. Both types of exterior acrylic paints are used to cover plastered walls, brick or stone.
Acrylic for interior decoration and decoration has become in great demand among buyers. It is acrylic paint that occupies a leading position among the products intended for painting walls in residential premises. She helps to bring to life any ideas and projects. With its help, you can make a beautiful designer interior decoration.
In addition, acrylics for interior decoration are used for decorative purposes for painting some interior items. Compositions intended for interior decoration are water-dispersible. They dry much faster than exterior coatings. In addition, they have good adhesion to almost any surface. They are ideal for painting radiators, window frames, doors.
The choice of its colors and shades is much wider in comparison with models for exterior decoration. They are also used to paint pictures, both on canvases and on walls. They perfectly fulfill the role of the basic finishing material in rooms with different purposes.
Water-based acrylic paints belong to polyacrylic mixtures. Unlike oil paints, such compositions are diluted with water, their use is simplified at times. The difference between them is significant. In addition, they are washed off with water. Such coatings look beautiful and juicy, their color rendition is maximum.
Acrylic enamels are often used for finishing work in the bathroom. So, with the help of this acrylic composition, you can completely restore the bath.
Thus, you do not have to replace the coating by dismantling and enameling the bath. It will be enough just to purchase the required acrylic composition.
Bathtub paints are acrylic acid based enamels. Such spraying tightly covers the surface of the bath and holds very tightly. And while acrylic paint performs several important functions. Covering the bathtub with it will keep the water temperature better than metal, which cools quickly.
In addition, such enamel will be quite durable and reliable. The coating can be up to 6 mm thick. It will be solid and pleasant to the touch. On average, this composition can last up to 10 years on the bath, if you provide it with proper care. Even from constant exposure to water, such coatings do not fade.
Automotive acrylic paints are intended for painting cars. They also have acrylic in their composition, but differ slightly in quality characteristics. As a rule, they are of two types:
- basic;
- decorative.
The first layer acts as a base, then two more decorative layers are applied to the machine. It is customary to dilute car enamels before painting. They adhere well to the surface of the car and transform its appearance.
Acrylics are often used to paint nails. Basically, acrylic is used for painting on nails, as well as for creating interesting and bright designs. Typically, these paints are sold in tubes. Acrylic is very popular in cosmetology because it does not mix with other gel layers on the nails and dries quickly. Plus it can be easily erased if the decor doesn't work.
With their help, you can create any complex patterns using thin brushes. Acrylic nail formulations can be transparent or translucent. Also, manufacturers present formulations of a pasty type with a dense consistency and opaque formulations that are able to cover up the previous layer of any nail polish.
Acrylic paints for cosmetology are based on water or acetone, they are somewhat similar in composition to nail polish.
Acrylic paints for painting are much better and better than gouache or watercolor. They are distinguished by their ease of application and density of texture. They can be layered on top of each other, creating three-dimensional drawings. In addition, paints used for artistic purposes are hypoallergenic. In the event of a mistake, such paint can be gently washed off immediately.
Liquid acrylic paints work well on canvas and all types of fabrics. They can also be used to paint on cardboard. This type of paint is popular among artists because it can be used to create the effect of volume in the picture. In this way, the images become sculptural and very realistic.
Acrylic paints are used for creation in a variety of styles and painting techniques. They are able to add emotion to any picture.
Acrylic compounds are also divided into types depending on their functionality. So, paint on acrylic is:
- lightfast;
- waterproof;
- washable;
- resistant to mechanical stress.
All of them are intended for different types of finishes. They are chosen depending on the purpose of the room where such compositions will be applied.
Acrylic paints also differ in appearance. So, there are:
- glossy;
- matte;
- silky with a matte base;
- semi-gloss compositions.
They all look interesting and unusual in their own way. By combining different types of paints with or without glitter, you can create interesting textures and patterns.
Manufacturers also provide acrylic formulations for certain types of materials. So, there are acrylic compounds for:
- wood;
- metal;
- walls;
- ceilings;
- universal mixtures.
The latter are suitable for many surfaces and textures, therefore they are most popular.
Volume
Depending on the purpose of acrylic compounds, they are sold in different containers, which differ in their appearance and volume.
- So, the smallest are nail paints in tubes. They are presented in a volume of 20, 60, 80 ml.
- The paints in jars are larger in volume. Art products are sold in 100 ml cans, but there are also small 70 and 50 ml cans. The exact amount depends on the manufacturer of these coatings.
- Building models for facades and interiors are sold in cans with a large volume, which is usually measured already in liters.
- Acrylic paints can be sprayed on. This spray paint has an average capacity of 100-150 ml.
Colors
Manufacturers represent almost all options for paints, the palette is replete with both rich matte and shiny compositions. Such paint is also pearlescent. Glitter items are usually made in bronze, silver or gold. Black silver paint is very popular. Glowing decorative paint on an acrylic basis looks no less relevant.
Matte models are available in all colors of the rainbow and all shades derived from them. Among them, you can pick up almost any paint in color.
The most common is an acrylic-based base beige paint. It is perfect for finishing any interior, as well as for facing facades. For painting the walls of the kitchen or nursery, brighter colors of acrylic paints are used. For these purposes, they acquire green, red, blue, yellow compounds.
For the decoration of a modern interior, black glossy acrylic paint is most often used. It looks great in hi-tech or modern, minimalist interiors. Such a coating goes well with silver and snow-white glossy surfaces.
How to choose?
When choosing acrylic paint, it is necessary to take into account some of the features of the room, as well as its purpose. For walls and ceilings in dry rooms, such as a bedroom or a children's room, you can use water-based or dispersion-based acrylic compounds.
Both of these formulation options dry quickly. So, dispersion acrylic paints dry for a little more than 30 minutes. In addition, this paint does not smell at all, so the room will quickly return to its residential purpose.
For damp areas such as a kitchen or bathroom, it is best to use washable acrylic paint. It is desirable that it be resistant to abrasion and external influences. If these qualities are important to you, then it is better to purchase dispersion latex acrylic paint.
This composition also has water-repellent qualities, moreover, it does not allow steam to pass through. That is why you can even decorate the walls in the kitchen apron area with such paint.
These paints can withstand high thermal loads. But it is not only the walls of the kitchen or bathroom that this kind of exposure often occurs. The walls in the hallway also have to be washed and cleaned frequently. That is why it is also better for them to use acrylic-based latex paint.
For ceilings, water-based acrylic mixes are perfect. There is a corresponding marking on the packaging of acrylic compositions for ceilings. In addition, manufacturers most often present paints in one white color.
But if you want to make the ceilings brighter, then you can use different color tones. The latter composition usually has a water-dispersion basis and is perfect for giving it any shade. It also has a pasty consistency and rich pigmentation. With it, you can change any shade to the one you like best.
When choosing, try to give preference to colors and paints of the same brand to ensure the best quality and uniform color mixing.
When choosing a paint, try to look under the lid of the can, because some manufacturers do not always correctly reflect the color of the composition on the can. The paint may not match in color. The hardest thing to choose is white paint. After all, manufacturers present compositions indicating white, in fact, they can have a yellowish or milky tint.
In order to find the perfect white shade, you need to purchase super-white paint, this color has just that name. You can check the color quality by taking a sheet of landscape paper and comparing its color to paint. It should be snow white.
When choosing between matte or glossy acrylic-based paint, do not just follow your preferences, keep in mind that matte textures can smooth out some irregularities on the walls and visually transform the room. Gloss, on the other hand, will accentuate every small bulge or depression on the wall.
As for finishing ceilings, glossy acrylic paint is best suited here. This composition will provide the smoothness of the surface of the ceilings and fill the room with space. This is especially true for light formulations.
Tips & Tricks
In order to create a beautiful design with acrylic paints, you need to follow some recommendations. So, many in the process of work have the question of how such compounds can be dissolved, because they are quite thick and dense. The most common solvent used is water. It can be used if only because it is included in almost all acrylic paints.
But after you dilute the paint with water, stirring it, a protective film will form on all tools. That is why, immediately after mixing and applying this paint to the surface, it is necessary to thoroughly rinse and clean all devices and tools. This must be done within an hour after the end of the work.
You can also dilute paints with the help of specially designed compositions. They are sold ready-made. In addition, with their help, you can transform the acrylic-based composition, if you do not want to buy another or accidentally made the wrong choice. The thinner can make the paint glossy or matte.
When thinning paint with water, the correct ratio must be observed. A one-to-one dilution is ideal. Then the paint will cover walls and other surfaces without creating gaps. It is better to use thinned paint first as a base and then apply it in a second coat.
If you want to apply a very thin layer of acrylic paint or to make its shade less bright, then you need to dilute it with water in a ratio of one to two. Such a composition will impregnate any surface well and will lay down in a thin layer.
The denser you plan to paint, the less water you need to add to this composition.
Some people also experience the problem of drying acrylic paints. But to solve this problem, they only resort to diluting it with water and stirring it. It is not right. Experts recommend first turning the dried mixtures into powder, grinding them using special equipment, and then pouring the resulting powder with boiling water.
After that, you need to wait until the water has completely cooled down. It must be carefully drained so that the paint elements remain in the container again. Then you need to repeat this procedure. On the second lap, do not drain all the water completely. It is enough to leave about half of this composition so that there is enough water to dilute the paint to the desired consistency.
Although in its composition this paint will be similar to that that was before drying, but if this procedure is carried out, then its quality characteristics will become worse. With its help, it is better to paint only household buildings and some discreet interior elements. It is not recommended to paint an accent wall with such a coating.
If you decide to dilute acrylic paints, then in no case should you add water to a whole jar of acrylic composition. This must be done in a separate container. Otherwise, later, when the water you added evaporates from the can, the paint will lose its previous qualities.
Experts give a lot of recommendations regarding the process of applying paint and the technology of working with acrylic compositions. Before painting walls or other surfaces with acrylics, they must first be prepared. To do this, remove excess dirt and dust, clean walls and ceilings from greasy stains and streaks.
Before using such compositions, it is imperative to level all surfaces, otherwise the paint can emphasize all the shortcomings. Before applying paint, remove all old coatings, including paintwork. For this, it is better to use a quality spatula. Even small particles of paint left after cleaning can damage the new coating.
It is better to treat cleaned surfaces with a primer before applying the composition. Thus, you can protect walls and ceilings from bacteria and fungus and reduce the consumption of acrylic compound during painting. Acrylic paint should not be applied if the surfaces are cracked and uneven. All of them must be covered with putty.
But under no circumstances should acrylic be applied to the dried putty. Initially, you need to wipe this layer, and then apply a primer. In this way, the adhesion of the paint to the surface can be maximized.
Acrylic paints on the surface of walls and ceilings must be applied in a specific sequence. First you need to paint over all the corner areas and draw clear lines around the entire perimeter of walls and other surfaces using a roller. Then you need to paint the central part with it. In the corners, work with a brush to paint over them better.
In order for the white coating on the walls to look smooth and of high quality, one of the rules must be followed. So, the last decorative layer should be applied with a roller horizontally towards the window. When applying paint to walls, the minimum is two layers. But, as a rule, it is applied in three layers. Thus, you can achieve the brightest and most saturated color, and also cover up all the gaps.
The highest quality painting can be achieved using a spray gun. This mechanical method of painting requires certain skills.
Manufacturers and reviews
The most popular are the following:
- The brand is very famous Tikkurila, which presents a wide range of acrylic-based interior paints. With their help, it becomes easy to make repairs. The coatings can be used on all types of floors and walls, as well as furniture, window frames and doors. Buyers love the versatility of these paints. They especially note the quality of the range of paints for baths and saunas.
- Acrylic enamels are also popular now. "Tex" … They are stable formulations based on latex and acrylic. Especially buyers note universal enamels from this manufacturer. They write that such paint protects the surface well, dries quickly, is easy to apply and adheres well.
- Acrylic paints Decart intended for artwork. Most of all, buyers like the compositions from the "Fantasy" line. With their help, you can create real artistic masterpieces.
- Acrylic art paints are also great for drawing. Polycolor. They are popular with professional artist buyers. Parents write in reviews that even children can draw with them. The only drawback that buyers note is the high cost of such compositions. But many people like the diverse palette.
- Acrylic compounds "Lux" intended primarily for exterior decoration. They are durable and of high quality. Basically, the manufacturer presents universal models in pastel shades.
- Manufacturer "Lacra" represents water-dispersion paints on an acrylic basis, intended for finishing works. They are ideal for painting walls and ceilings. Basically, the models are presented in pastel shades. You can choose between matte and glossy compositions. Buyers indicate that after drying, a moisture-resistant film forms on the coating, so it is easy to care for them.
For more information on the features of acrylic paints, see the next video.