The place of paints and varnishes in finishing activities remains significant even despite the expansion of the range of alternative finishing materials. However, the compositions of building and decorative emulsions also do not stand still and are being improved, which allows them to compete with other means of decorating various surfaces. Quite quickly, silicone paint was introduced to the market , represented by compositions for both internal and external finishing work.
Features silicone paints
A distinctive feature that determines the characteristics of coatings formed with such paints is the content of silicone resins in the composition. If we compare the effect of this component with acrylic polymers, then the absence of thermoplasticity will come to the fore. This means that under conditions of increasing temperature, the structure of the paintwork will not soften. Moreover, there are many differences within the family of such compounds. For example, silicone wall paint has self-cleaning properties, which makes it easier to care for the coating. In turn, facade models are guided by manufacturers for protective qualities - primarily from mechanical damage. It is worth noting that almost all compounds combine well with mineral paints. That is, a silicone coating can be applied on a cement-lime base, brick, concrete or fiberboard.
Performance of silicone paints
Among the characteristics that stand out against the background of other paints and varnishes, one can note a fairly high vapor permeability, moisture resistance and elasticity. The ability to interact with steam allows the composition to actively penetrate the structure of the rough surface and, over time, maintain optimal adhesion properties. As a result, the coating will not peel off, but only under the condition of reliable adhesion to the surface of the old layer. The water resistance that silicone paint has is not a unique quality, but it is its natural property, which, unlike other means, is not achieved through modifiers and special additives. In practice, this means that the silicone compound can even act as a waterproofing agent on the roof. As for elasticity, this property determines the ability of a coating to easily mask defects on rough surfaces. Actually, this quality determined the priming nature of the use of some silicone-based products.
Compositions for the facade
Modifications for outdoor work are represented by different lines of silicone paints. Conventionally, they can be divided into two categories - protective equipment and primers. The first category is intended for the finishing of plasters, damp walls, porous cladding and heat-insulating structures. In such works, the main requirement for paint is the ability to form a resistant water-repellent coating that densely fills micropores.
Silicone façade paint with a primer function has similar qualities, but its task is still aimed at mechanically preparing the surface without a decorative effect. A typical primer compound strengthens the base, penetrating deep into the surface, and then provides a waterproof coating that prevents the passage of salts, moisture and steam. It should be noted that facade modifications are used not only for walls, but also in works with concrete plinths, curbs and other structures and structures that present special requirements for external protection.
Silicone paints for interior use
This category of coatings is also called interior. These are tools that can be used for walls, ceilings and other indoor surfaces. The main advantage of all interior paints is decorativeness. However, silicone modifications do not greatly win in terms of aesthetics of the final result from competitors. First of all, the choice of such a tool for interior decoration is beneficial in physical and operational properties. Use, for example, silicone paint for the ceiling is recommended because the coating is resistant to dirt. The top surface is considered the most problematic from the point of view of care, so applying such a composition will provide an advantage in the form of practicality. The same applies to restoration paints of this type, which do not accumulate dirt and dust.
Specialized appointment
The established restrictions that apply to the choice of finishing materials for rooms with high humidity are gradually eroding. If earlier it was impossible to imagine the presence of wood finishes in direct contact with water, today it is not difficult to find a moisture-resistant laminate on the market. The distribution of silicone paint for the bathroom, which is part of a group of water-based compositions. Latex and acrylic modifications are presented in the same category, but they are not so good in terms of ease of application and practicality of use. The silicone base, as already noted, is not demanding on the rough surface. That is, even in conditions of high humidity coefficient and unsatisfactory condition of the walls in the bathroom, the user can count on obtaining a high-quality result. And in the future, the applied paint is characterized by sufficient adhesion and mechanical strength.
Silicone Paint Reviews
Users of such formulations note primarily ease of care. The coating is easy to clean, insensitive to cleaning agents, and is in itself reluctant to collect dirt particles on the surface. The obvious advantages of such tools in relation to painting work are also emphasized. To prepare a rough basis, the coating requires minimal effort, which also expands the range of advantages that silicone paints possess. Reviews regarding wear resistance do not yet give reason to doubt the durability of such coatings, but here it is important to note one caveat. Since silicone compounds appeared on the market not so long ago, few users managed to fully verify their operational life.
Manufacturers
Traditionally, Tikkurila brand appears in the lists of leaders in sales of paints and varnishes. And in the case of silicone compounds, the same situation is observed. The manufacturer offers both specialized and universal means of this type, however, at high prices. Those who want to save money should pay attention to the Elkon line. Despite the relatively low cost, silicone paint of this brand provides a full range of characteristics inherent in water-based coatings. Especially for the decoration of ceilings, it is recommended to refer to the products "Halo" and Dufa. According to reviews, even on the worn surface of the coating they hold confidently and easily wash.
Conclusion
In the list of consumer qualities of coatings, users are increasingly making such a characteristic as environmental friendliness. Improving the compositions almost always involves the introduction of new additives, plasticizers and other inclusions, which are not the best way affect safety indicators. From this point of view, silicone paint also does not disappoint demanding customers. Of course, a lot depends on the integrity of a particular manufacturer, which develops the technology and monitors the manufacturing process of the composition. But an example of high-quality Tikkurila and Dufa paints confirms that the chemical harmlessness of silicone coatings is real.