Reviews and Buyer’s Guides
Types of Concrete Paints
- Water-emulsion paints apply with ease. They provide excellent coverage and differ much in colors. They refer to cheap paints. That is why they have some demerits. They are not resistant to moisture and mechanical influences. They cannot protect the concrete from chemical and temperature damages.
- Silicate paints acquire perfect adhesion properties. They are resistant to sun exposure and low temperatures. They provide a wide choice of colors and dry out fast. As a rule, several layers of these paints must be applied. A single layer cannot cover the concrete surface damages and imperfections.
- Oil-paints are cheap. They resist moisture and ultraviolet rays. Their main disadvantages are a long time of drying and toxicity. They require much preliminary preparation of the concrete surface before being applied.
- Polyurethane paints are similar to epoxy paints. They come in two types: one- or two-component mixtures. The main component is polyester resin. The molecules bond and create hydrophobic protective skin. The painting consists of two stages. The first thin layer must dry out for about 24 hours. The second thick layer requires more time: in two days, the paint will not stick. In a week, it gains mechanical solidity; in two weeks, it becomes chemically resistant. The paint creates a smooth and glossy surface.
- Acrylic paints show perfect resistance to mechanical rubbing. They are elastic. Acrylic paints are safe for the environment and are non-toxic. They show nice coverage and high resistance to moisture and biological factors. The main disadvantage is a higher price compared with other paint types. The paints with 100% bonding acryl are expensive in particular. Sometimes a customer can find acrylic paint with cheap latex dispersion. Latex is a common name of bonding elements of the paint. They are more affordable but less resistant to peeling and sun exposure than 100% acrylic paints.
