What is Emulsion Paint?

Emulsion paint, also known as latex paint or acrylic paint, is a water-based or aqueous solvent paint, a mixture comprising water as solvent. It is bind chemically by acrylic resin polymers to water and color pigments to form a silky coating when applied on surfaces.

Though known as latex paint to some, there is actually no natural latex component in the mastic composition of emulsion paint. The resin binders that are formed through the chemical polymerization process are in fact synthetic, and they are what give acrylic or emulsion paint its plastic layer when slathered on walls.

Why Emulsion Paint?

Unlike oil-based paint, emulsion paint emits lesser odour and is less toxic when released to the environment, due to its low VOCs (volatile organic compounds) properties. Emulsion paints being water-based also mean faster drying time.

As emulsion paint is porous, the water component evaporates quickly from the paint solution composition in the course of drying process; this is notably quicker than waiting for moisture in oil-based paint to escape.

The binder that emulsion paint uses is known as an elastomer, known for its high flexibility. As such, when emulsion paint is applied, the overlay remains elastic, making it extremely resistant to expansion and contraction movements when subject to temperature changes in the environment. Because of this, emulsion paint seldom crack or peel on wall or furniture surfaces.

Because emulsion paints are not oil-based, it is not a flammable liquid, making it a safer choice for homes and work places.

Emulsion paint is light weight, therefore easy to apply, and gives a matt, smooth finish that evens out undertones and gives even luminosity when cast in light. It also provides good coverage in masking small marks or dents and other imperfections on walls.

Due to the low odor & toxic gases emission (VOCs) that are less harmful to the people and surrounding, emulsion paints are popular and safer choices for home painting & commercial painting today. Most commercial brands of paints in the market are water-based emulsion paints. These are the commonly available interior paints most used and applied by consumers; popular paint brands used widely include Nippon and ICI Dulux.

SingaporePaintingWorks deals with a panel of painting contractors who provide affordable painting services in Singapore through a wide range of quality paint products such as Nippon Paint, ICI Dulux, Jotun, SKK & more, catering to both interior and exterior application needs as well as the different types of finish you desire.