Features and differences between water-dispersion and water-emulsion paints

Wall durability and appearance can be greatly impacted by the paint color you choose. With so many choices, it’s critical to comprehend the primary distinctions between common varieties.

Paints that are water-dispersion and water-emulsion are two popular types that have different advantages. Despite the fact that they might sound alike, their applications and compositions can differ greatly.

It will be simpler for you to choose the ideal paint for your project if you can better understand the key differences after reading this article. To get the best results, it’s important to understand your options, whether your goal is a durable surface or a smooth finish.

Water-emulsion paints

Because of the following benefits, this kind of paint and varnish material is well-known to homeowners and has been used in numerous applications:

  1. Drying speed. Usually the coating sets within 30 minutes, and it will take 2-4 hours to dry completely.
  2. Safety. These materials do not contain toxic substances, so they cannot harm human health either at the painting stage or during operation.
  3. No unpleasant odor. Usually after painting you have to ventilate the room for several days, but not in the case of this type of material.
  4. Wide color range. During the production of paint, special coloring pigments of synthetic origin are added to its composition, so you can find almost any shade on the market. If ready-made options are not suitable, you can buy white paint and tint it with a special substance.
  5. Ease of application. Thanks to this feature, you can do the work yourself, thereby saving on hiring specialists.
  6. Relatively low cost.

It should be mentioned that one of the drawbacks is that it is prone to low temperatures, particularly during application. Over five degrees should be the operating temperature. Furthermore, surfaces that absorb a lot of moisture or metal products shouldn’t have this kind of material applied to them. Paint will corrode in the first scenario and prematurely destroy the surface in the second.

Specifications

Ingredients for water-based coatings include latex, fillers, thickeners, and optional additives to boost resistance to UV light, water, and other factors. Water regulates the viscosity of this material. A viscometer is a specialized instrument that is used to determine this indicator. When utilizing hand tools, the ideal viscosity is between 40 and 45 St (rollers, brushes, sponges, etc.). If you intend to use a spray gun to apply the material, this indicator should not be greater than 25 St.

Based on average manufacturer data, 200 milliliters of water-based paint are used for every square meter of treated surface. However, in practice, this feature might vary depending on the base’s absorbency, the level of preparation, the instrument utilized, and other factors.

This kind of paint has an average specific gravity of no more than 1.4 kg per liter. The room’s temperature and humidity level have a direct impact on drying time. Additionally, the drying times of various compositions can vary, ranging from two hours to a day. It should be mentioned that the ideal conditions for painting are between 65 and 70 percent relative humidity and 20 degrees Celsius in temperature.

Types of water-based compositions

The following kinds of materials are available in the current construction market:

  • Acrylic. As is clear from the name, the material is based on acrylic resins. These compositions are considered to be of sufficient quality, durable and long-lasting.
  • Mineral. Slaked lime or cement act as additional ingredients. Paints are able to hide small defects of the treated surface, but do not last long.
  • Silicate. They are a mixture of liquid glass, dye and solvent. Able to last up to 20 years without losing their original appearance.
  • Silicone. The most durable and long-lasting materials, but, unfortunately, very expensive. This is what mainly distinguishes the compositions from water-dispersion paint.

Although they are both common options for interior wall finishes, water-dispersion and water-emulsion paints have different compositions, levels of durability, and methods of application. Water-dispersion paints are perfect for damp or high-traffic areas because they are more resilient to moisture and have longer lifespans. Water-emulsion paints, on the other hand, dry more quickly and are easier to clean and apply, which makes them ideal for last-minute home improvements. Knowing these distinctions will assist you in selecting the ideal paint for your particular requirements.

Water-dispersion paints

Water dispersions and synthetic polymer substances serve as the foundation for the production of these finishing materials. Polymers of vinyl acetate or acrylic are used as binders. In case you’re wondering how water-emulsion paint differs from dispersion compositions, the latter have gained more traction because of their superior performance metrics. Paints that dissolve in water offer the following benefits:

  1. Absence of volatile components in the composition. Thanks to this feature, you can paint surfaces without respirators.
  2. Ease of application. Even a novice home craftsman can cope with painting.
  3. Drying speed. Usually one layer of paint hardens in half an hour.
  4. Resistance to ultraviolet radiation. Due to this, the coating retains its original color for a long time.
  5. High level of adhesion to many types of substrates.
  6. Vapor permeability. This feature allows the coating to "breathe", due to which moisture will not accumulate on the surface.
  7. Durability. Provided that the starting work is carried out correctly, the coating can last 20-25 years.

The primary drawback in comparison to compositions based on water is the elevated expense.

Although inexpensive dispersion compositions can be found, using them will necessitate applying them in multiple layers, which will ultimately result in high costs.

This kind of paint also needs a perfectly ready base. Only after it has been leveled, cleaned, and impregnated can it be painted. The materials in question frequently have a limited operating temperature as a drawback.

Feature Water-Dispersion Paint Water-Emulsion Paint
Composition Made with polymers dispersed in water Made with pigments and binders in a water base
Durability Highly durable, resistant to washing Less durable, less resistant to washing
Surface Application Suitable for various surfaces including wood and metal Best for walls and ceilings
Finish Usually provides a matte finish Offers a matte or satin finish
Drying Time Dries quickly Dries more slowly
Cost Generally more expensive Usually cheaper

Water-dispersion vs. water-emulsion paint selection requires careful consideration of your project’s particular requirements. Each type has its own advantages; water-emulsion paints are easier to apply and better suited for interior surfaces, while water-dispersion paints are more resilient and better suited for high-moisture areas.

The choice ultimately boils down to how and where the paint will be applied. Making an informed decision and ensuring a finish that lives up to your expectations can be achieved by being aware of the variations in their composition and application.

Recall that both materials are low in toxicity, easy to clean, and environmentally friendly, which makes them great choices for a variety of painting tasks.

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Dmitry Stepanov

Professional decorator with 10 years of experience. I know everything about renovating apartments, houses and offices. I will be happy to share my knowledge and experience with you.

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