Paint selection depends on surface and setting

As one of the most visible aspects of a building, paint defines space, adds distinction and enhances a structure’s overall appearance. A fresh coat of paint is a quick, economical way to spruce up a facility’s interior.

Proper selection of paint for facilities hinges on several key, interrelated considerations:

* how the paint will be used;

* what performance is expected;

* whether the painted surfaces will be exposed to harsh weather or cleaning agents;

* what upkeep is required; and

* whether the paint complies with environmental regulations.

Higher-quality paints are more costly but tend to adhere better. Less maintenance is required, saving time and money in the long run. Less expensive paints, though tempting to use on a tight budget, deposit fewer film-forming solids on surfaces and often require multiple applications.

The 1970 Clean Air Act made VOCs a target of cleanup programs, and in 1990, a federal measure set maximum levels of VOC content in architectural paints and coatings.

In addition, states and municipalities throughout the country have begun establishing their own regulations. For example, Southern California has set strict guidelines regarding VOC content in solvent-based products.

Other areas, such as metropolitan New York/new jersey and 16 counties in Texas, have also begun enforcing their own regulations.

Low-VOC paints of the future may be harder and more weather resistant, with greater durability, lower odor, faster drying time and easier application than today’s solvent-based paints.

Architectural paints come in two varieties: latex (water-based) and solvent,based alkyds, more commonly known as oil-based. Latex paints are frequently preferred because of their low odor, ease of application, fast dry time and easy soap,and,water cleanup.

Their resistance to chipping, cracking and peeling, good color, gloss retention and durability help give latex paints a long life.

Latex paints are ideal for a variety of surfaces, including drywall, plaster, wood, metal and masonry, and most typically meet existing standards for VOCs.

For educational settings, the low odor of latex coatings gives them an additional advantage over higher-odor, solvent,based coatings. Use of low-odor coatings enables painters to work during normal office hours with employees in adjacent areas. Other trade workers also are able to work side by side with painters.

But solvent-based paints, which tend to have higher VOC content, still have distinct advantages over latex in areas where surface preparation is marginal. Solvent-based paints dry to a hard surface that wears well under harsh conditions and resists scuffs.

Other advantages include good flow and leveling, less shrinkage during curing, good application at lower temperatures and resistance to stain and moisture.

Where paint will be used helps determine the best type of coating for the job. For instance, exterior surfaces exposed to moisture and humidity might benefit from latex coatings. Their “mildewide” additives discourage mildew growth, while solvent-based coatings do not resist mildew as well.

In fact, the oil base contains nutrients that can actually encourage the growth of mildew.

The desired finish or sheen is another major consideration in paint selection. Architectural paints come in a variety of finishes in both latex and alkyd, including flat, satin, eg-shel, semi-gloss and gloss.

Finishes may differ slightly from brand to brand, but the package label should include a description of how the finish looks when dry.

Traditionally, as gloss increases, so does durability. Gloss finishes are better at resisting stains and dirt than flat finishes, and they hold up well to abrasive cleaning methods,

As a result, semi-gloss coatings are generally used for high-traffic areas. Gloss finishes also give a richer, more intense appearance.

Flat, satin and eg-shel finishes contribute to a subtle, more decorative appearance and are better suited for walls and ceilings in areas, such as offices, lobbies, classrooms and foyers, where the finish can enhance the decor.

The new stain,resistant, interior-wall latex paints do not allow stains to penetrate their surfaces, so scuffs and spills wash off easily. Traditional flat paint actually absorbs stains and requires scrubbing.

Stain-resistant, interior-wall latex paints provide one-coat hiding on a variety of substrates, including wood, plaster, drywall and previously painted interior surfaces. They are easy to apply using a brush, roller or spray unit and clean up well with soap and water.

Proper surface preparation is an important consideration, since up to 80 percent of paint failures can be attributed to inadequate preparation. Correct preparation involves several factors, including the type of substrate, surface contaminants, environmental conditions and the expected service life of the paint.

Advance planning of paint selection is a practical step in assuring a successful and economically sound renovation or new construction project. Careful consideration can have a dramatic impact on a facility’s appearance and usually leads to fewer last,minute changes, saving time and resources along the way.

This article was written by Lane Blackburn, director, architectural marketing, Sherwin-Williams, Cleveland.