Bathroom paint waterproof: Waterproof Paint For Bathrooms? – The Expert Guide

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Waterproof Paint For Bathrooms? – The Expert Guide

When painting a bathroom, it is important to use the right paint due to the moisture levels that the paint must endure. For this reason, many homeowners look for a waterproof paint for bathrooms, but what paint should you use & what do you need to consider? Read our experts guide which explains everything you need to know before you start painting.

The term ‘waterproof’ when it comes to paint generally refers to paints that are water repellent. These are exterior paints that are designed to withstand the rainfall that an exterior surface must endure, either for wood or masonry.

When it comes to interior paint, these paints are not waterproof. While a bathroom must endure high-moisture levels, this moisture comes in the form of condensation. For this reason, you simply require a paint that is has a level of moisture resistance that won’t deteriorate and weaken due to the moisture.

Moisture resistant paints can come in a range of forms, from primers that are designed to be applied underneath paint to emulsions that have added ingredients that provide the protection against moisture. There are a number of potential options when it comes to paint for bathrooms.

Standard emulsions

Painting bathrooms walls & ceilings is done using water-based emulsion paints that are designed for interior use. While you can use any emulsion paint, it is better to use a paint that has more moisture resistance, especially if your bathroom is one that has poor ventilation.

The more sheen a paint has, the more light it reflects and the more durability it has.

High & medium sheen finishes such as gloss and satin are primarily used on woodwork and metal such as doors, radiators & skirting boards, while low and medium sheen finishes such as matt, eggshell, silk & soft sheen are used on interior walls & ceilings. The paint finishes that are available include:

  • Matt – the ‘flattest’ finish of paint that is the most popular finish for interior walls & ceilings. It’s low durability is the reason why it is used on walls & ceilings in low-traffic rooms.
  • Eggshell – eggshell is perfect if you want a slightly higher sheen than matt and require the added durability that comes with more sheen. It is used on interior walls & ceilings as well as on wood & metal in oil-based form.
  • Satin – a mid-sheen finish that is designed for use on woodwork & metal.
  • Silk – a mid-sheen finish that is traditionally used on interior walls & ceilings.
  • Soft Sheen – a mid-sheen finish with a subtle look compared to silk, for interior walls & ceilings.
  • Gloss – the highest sheen of paint, most commonly used on woodwork & metal.

While any water-based paint can be used on interior walls & ceilings, the most common finishes used on these are matt, eggshell, silk & soft-sheen. The best emulsion paints to use in a bathroom would depend on the paint sheen you want. If you want a matt finish, a durable matt emulsion is better than a standard matt emulsion. These are often referred to as ‘scrubbable’.

In the case of other sheens, you can use any paint you like as long as it is a water-based paint. Do not use an oil-based eggshell finish on interior walls & ceilings, these are best used on woodwork & metal.

Bathroom paint

Bathroom paints are emulsion paints that are specifically for use in bathrooms. These are what is known as ‘retail paints’ as opposed to ‘trade paints’, but what does this mean?

The leading paint manufacturers usually develop two versions of their paints, a retail version and a trade version. These are developed to suit the needs of a homeowner compared to a professional decorators. While a homeowner generally wants a cheaper emulsion, a trade decorator requires a higher quality paint. Trade paints are higher quality, have a higher durability and have a better coverage when compared to retail paint, as a professional decorator must achieve a high-quality finish as easily and as quickly as possible. If they have to apply three coats of paint rather than two, this can significantly increase labour costs.

While a trade paint may cost slightly more upfront, the added durability and coverage means that it can actually save you money as it will go further and last longer. If you see a paint that is named a bathroom paint, this is generally a sign that it is a retail paint. Anyone can use or buy a trade paint, with a growing number of homeowners today switching from cheaper retail paint to trade paints to get the higher quality that comes with it. Brands such as Dulux & Crown all have a trade brand, for example Dulux Trade, so you can still get the paint you want from a name you can trust!

Mould-inhibiting paint & primers

There are specialist paints & primers from brands such as Zinsser that are designed to provide added protection from mould growth. This is useful as mould thrives in high moisture areas such as bathroom or kitchens. You can either apply a mould-inhibiting primer before applying an emulsion paint, or buy a mould-inhibiting paint to use as an all-in-one solution.

We hope this has answered any questions you may have had regarding paint for bathrooms. At Painters World we have a wide range of trade paint, decorating tools & supplies available, so no matter the job, we’ve got everything you need! Shop our huge range of products today & get FREE next working day delivery on all orders over £50.

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Best Type of Paint for Bathrooms (2023 Guide) – Forbes Home

Small local shops and big-box home improvement stores have a variety of paints for everything from sink faucets to bathroom walls. This guide will save you from feeling overwhelmed in the paint aisle while you collect supplies for your bathroom remodel or update.

The best type of paint for bathrooms is a satin, semi-gloss, or glossy finish with a mildew-resistant additive. Ideally, your chosen paint should last a while. However, if you’re set on a flat or matte finish, there are options for you too. Don’t forget to clean and prime walls before painting for the best results.

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Important Factors

Humidity is a threat to the look and performance of paint. Moisture, like steam from your shower, can seep between the wall and coat of paint, creating unwanted texture, bubbling and peeling.

Paints with a glossy finish are moisture-resistant because once cured, satin and gloss finishes form a hard coat that blocks out water, allowing it to drip to the floor rather than seep through to the drywall or wood. High-gloss and enamel paints look, feel and act more like glass or a dry-erase board. Low-sheen paints like flat or eggshell finishes are softer and absorb moisture.

Avoid products made for external use only, like masonry paint. While paints intended for basements and exterior walls are more waterproof, they may contain hazardous amounts of mildewcide or other additives that can cause respiratory problems. When in doubt, hire a professional painter to quickly, safely and effectively paint your bathroom.

Best Bathroom Primers

Use a primer to bond the paint to the wall and prevent peeling. Sticky primers with mildewcide additives will protect your walls for years to come. Here are labels to look for in the primer aisle:

  • KILZ Mold & Mildew Interior | Exterior Primer
  • Zinsser Peel Stop White Triple Thick Interior/Exterior High Build Binding Primer
  • BEHR White Acrylic Interior Kitchen, Bath, and Trim Stain-Blocking Primer and Sealer

A good primer is especially important if you want a low-sheen or no-gloss paint in the bathroom.

Matte, Flat and Eggshell

Professional painters generally steer people away from flat, matte and eggshell finishes for bathroom projects because soft paints are prone to mildew in high humidity. They also aren’t as easy to clean, an important feature for bathroom walls.

However, matte walls add a soft dimension to an otherwise smooth and glossy room, giving it a luxurious, designer appeal.

Thankfully, paint technology has come a long way in recent years. There are matte, flat and eggshell bathroom paints made to resist mildew and make cleaning easier. Look for these labels if you’re set on a low-sheen color:

  • Benjamin Moore Aura Bath and Spa – Matte
  • BEHR Ultra Scuff Defense Stain-Blocking Paint and Primer in One – Flat
  • Zinsser Interior Perma White – Eggshell

Once these low-sheen paints have cured, you can clean your bathroom walls with soap, water and a smooth cloth.

Pros

  • Some products are durable and mildew-resistant

Cons

  • Susceptible to moisture
  • Peeling when not properly primed
  • Not all products are mildew-resistant

Eggshell, while sometimes used synonymously with satin, is slightly less suitable for bathrooms than satin due to its texture and shares many of the same qualities as flat and matte paints.

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Satin

Satin sits between eggshell and gloss paints. It develops a slight protective coating making it a little easier to clean than no-sheen paints. Satin is a good choice for your bathroom if you want a softer-than-gloss texture with many benefits of a gloss finish. Look for these labels in the paint aisle:

  • BEHR Premium Plus Satin Enamel Low Odor Interior Paint and Primer in One
  • Zinsser Satin Perma-White White Tintable Interior Paint

Pros

  • Great for bathroom walls, ceiling or trim
  • Relatively easy to clean

Cons

  • Not as easy to clean as semi-gloss and gloss

Semi-Gloss

Semi-gloss is one of the most versatile paint finishes because it is easy to clean and water-resistant, making it a great choice for your bathroom walls and trim. You have plenty of options when it comes to semi-gloss bathroom paints, such as:

  • BEHR Premium Semi-Gloss Enamel Low Odor Interior Paint and Primer in One
  • Zinsser Semi-Gloss Perma-White White Tintable Interior Paint
  • PPG UltraLast Base 1 Semi-Gloss Interior Paint
  • HGTV HOME by Sherwin-Williams Showcase Semi-Gloss

You can also use semi-gloss on your bathroom cabinets. Look for products like BEHR Premium’s Semi-Gloss Enamel Interior Cabinet and Trim Paint.

Pros

  • Great for bathroom walls
  • Durability
  • Dries quickly
  • Easy to clean

Cons

  • Shows texture and imperfections

Glossy and Full-Gloss

Glossy paints offer the most protection from moisture. Glossy finishes are the easiest to clean, making them perfect for bathroom cabinets and trim. Here are some great gloss paint options for your bathroom project:

  • BEHR Premium Plus Hi-Gloss Enamel Interior/Exterior Paint
  • Valspar Ultra High-Gloss Ultra White/Base A Enamel Tintable Interior Paint

For an editorial, metallic or almost wet look in your bathroom, choose a full-gloss paint, such as:

  • Farrow & Ball’s Full Gloss Interior and Exterior Paint.
  • PPG’s Metallic Interior Specialty Finish.

Pros

  • Great for bathroom cabinets
  • Long-lasting
  • Moisture resistant
  • Easy to clean

Cons

  • Visible water droplets on the wall
  • Long curing time
  • Shows texture and imperfections

Bathroom Hardware

If you’re repainting bathroom fixtures and hardware, look for rust-resistant paints. Metallic finishes may provide slightly more protection than matte finishes. Use a lacquer top-coat to help it last. Here are some labels to look for in the spray paint aisle:

  • KILZ Original Oil-Based Interior Primer Spray, Sealer and Stain Blocker
  • Rust-Oleum Universal Flat Spray Paint
  • Rust-Oleum 2X Painter’s Touch Ultra Cover Flat Spray
  • Plutonium Clear Coat Gloss Spray Paint

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Colors

For the most natural reflection, choose a neutral color like white for bathroom walls. This will show stains easily, but it is one of the most popular choices for many reasons. Soft neutrals and pinks cast natural ambient light around the space and give you a healthy glow in the mirror.

Leave bold colors for painted cabinets. Select a desaturated color, like a foggy gray or sage green for a modern-looking bathroom.

What to Consider When Choosing the Best Paint for Bathrooms

Due to the moisture in the air from your showers and baths, choosing a paint color for your bathroom is an important decision. So, before selecting the perfect bathroom paint color, there are additional factors to consider, such as:

Wall Color Affect Mirror Reflections

When selecting a paint color for your bathroom, you may not initially think about your mirror’s reflection as you shop. After all, light-colored or neutral walls can optimize the brightness and clarity of your mirror’s reflection because they reflect more light. In contrast, dark paint colors will absorb more light, resulting in a less vibrant reflection. Warm colors can cast a warm glow, while cooler colors can cast a cooler tone, affecting the reflection that you’ll see in the mirror.

Mold and Mildew Resistance

Common problems in bathrooms are mold and mildew due to the moisture and humidity in these areas. Therefore, selecting a paint with mold and mildew resistance properties can prevent the growth of these fungi and protect the painted surfaces from damage. You can ensure that your bathroom remains clean, hygienic and free from the harmful effects of mold and mildew.

Prevent Peeling

Paint peeling in your bathroom can be caused by several factors, including high humidity levels, improper surface preparation and using low-quality paint. To prevent paint peeling, make sure that you use a primer that is compatible with both the existing paint and the new coat of paint. For example, if you’re using oil-based paint on top of latex paint, you’ll need to use an oil-based primer for the best results.

Waterproof bathroom paints in St. Petersburg

Products > Paints > Interior paints > Waterproof bathroom paints

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  • Alpocryl 119 pearl white

    Two-component dry-cured silky-gloss enamel, light-fast, weather-resistant, chemical- and mechanical-resistant. Enamel ALPOCRYL EMAILLACK LE meets the requirements of DIN 68861, 1B.
    Lacquer film is difficult to ignite according to eco-standard B 3800, part 1, B2.

    Status: Available

  • Alpocryl Emaillack LE

    Two-component dry-cured silky-gloss enamel, light-fast, weather-resistant, chemical- and mechanical-resistant. Enamel ALPOCRYL EMAILLACK LE meets the requirements of DIN 68861, 1B.
    Lacquer film is difficult to ignite according to eco-standard B 3800, part 1, B2.

    Status: Available

  • Fey(N)Line Metallic Paint

    2K-PU Coarse metallic paint. We have an incredibly spectacular visual and tactile quality.

    Status: Available

  • FEYCO paint in cans

    Status: Available

  • TEKNODUR TOPCOAT 1419-52

    Description:
    White matte enamel with good chemical resistance and hiding power,
    smooth hard surface. Well suited both as a
    decorative top coat and as an intermediate surface for
    under a high gloss finish. Dry residue – 65%.

    Application:
    Ideal for pigmented finishes on
    MDF and solid wood furniture fronts. Suitable for additional finishing
    high gloss varnish without intermediate sanding.

    Features:
    • Excellent hiding power
    • Excellent hardness
    • Good chemical resistance
    • Excellent pot life 3 hours (approx)
    • Good smooth finish

    Mixing:
    TEKNODUR TOPCOAT 1419-52 …………100%
    TEKNODUR HARDENER 1419-05………….50%
    TEKNOSOLV 214………………………………30%

    Status: Available

  • TEKNODUR TOPCOAT 1419-53

    Description:
    A white, self-priming, silky-matt enamel with a
    non-yellowing, quick-drying, smooth, hard surface. Excellent
    is suitable both as a decorative top coat for open
    porous finishes of veneer and solid wood, MDF fronts. Practically no
    raises the pile of the cover. Dry residue – 45%.
    Application:
    Ideal for pigmented finishing of
    furniture fronts in MDF, veneer and solid wood. Suitable for optional
    high gloss lacquer finish without intermediate sanding.
    Features:
    • Non-yellowing
    • Excellent hardness 2H
    • Good chemical resistance
    • Excellent pot life 2.5 hours. (approximately)
    • Good smooth surface
    Preparation of the working mixture:
    Teknodur Topcoat 1419-53 ……….. …….20%-30%

    Status: Available

  • TEKNODUR TOPCOAT 282 WHITE

    Description:
    High gloss white 2K PU enamel with high
    chemical and yellowing resistance. Possesses
    high surface hardness and high Dry residue
    (63.5%), high gloss level up to 100% (after polishing).
    Application:
    Ideal for finishing white high gloss
    MDF and solid wood furniture fronts. Widely used in
    bathroom and kitchen furniture.
    Features:
    • Excellent filling and thixotropy
    • Excellent hardness
    • Excellent chemical resistance
    • Excellent leveling ability
    • Excellent hiding power
    • Easy maintenance
    Mixing:
    TEKNODUR TOPCOAT 282 WHITE…… ……….100%
    TEKNODUR HARDENER L106 C ………..100%
    TEKNOSOLV 231 ……… …………………10-30%

    Status: Available

  • Varnish Alpocryl Klarlack 1495 HG high gloss

    For creating high gloss surfaces.

    For outdoor and indoor use. Resistant to ultraviolet.

    High quality varnish for furniture and interiors, kitchens, commercial equipment, showcases, shops, etc. It can also be used as a finishing coat in shipbuilding for interior and exterior solutions (use below the waterline is not allowed).
    Clear varnish for vehicles.

    Status: Available

Bathroom paint must be special. It is not enough to buy paint of the desired color or shade, it must be able to work in difficult conditions with high humidity, temperature changes, exposure to water, alkalis, while being durable, easy to clean and look great!

There are different types of bathroom paints: acrylic, polyurethane and others. All of them must meet specific requirements in order to ensure long-term service. Also, paints must be environmentally friendly and have additives that prevent the formation of mold and other specific phenomena in a damp room, prevent moisture from penetrating under the paintwork layer. These are the characteristics of FEYCO and TEKNOS premium materials. Painted and forgotten.

FEYCO and TEKNOS waterproof paint will allow you to create any bathroom interior design you have in mind. Any shades and tones according to the international catalogs RAL, NCS, impeccable quality and the appearance of a silky-gloss coating in the base are paints and materials of the premium segment.

The price of waterproof bathroom paint when purchased from SWISS PAINTING TECHNOLOGIES provides an effective solution for any budget. In addition, we offer not only paints, but also painting services for your interior. The paints dry quickly, which means that after application you can use the bathroom in a day.

Waterproof paint for bathroom, kitchen and bathroom

13.03.2020

Our store catalog has a wide selection of different types of paints and varnishes, but moisture-resistant paints are especially popular. They are resistant to moisture and temperature fluctuations. The surface can be cleaned with both light detergents and just water, as well as disinfectant solutions.

According to the composition, moisture-resistant paints are divided into 5 types:

1. Water-based waterproof paints. Have medium water repellency. This paint is suitable for toilet and kitchen. Reliably protects wooden surfaces from moisture access, thereby prolonging their service life. Water-based paint is not suitable for application on metal, plastic, glass and concrete.

Water-based paint is not recommended for use in bathrooms, showers and other areas where there is a high level of humidity. Waterproof paint creates a porous surface. At constantly high temperatures and the presence of moisture, water fills all the pores and the coating becomes unusable.

Please note: can be overcoated with the same type of paint. Other types of paints do not lay down on a waterproof surface.

2. Acrylic waterproof paints. Acrylic coating is resistant to periodic changes in indoor humidity. Thanks to its wide range of colors, the paint occupies a leading position among sales.

If the bathroom has a weak supply and exhaust system, then it is not recommended to paint the walls with acrylic waterproof paint.

3. Polyurethane waterproof paints. The paint consists of high polymer synthetic compounds. The composition of this paint has a high water-repellency due to the effect of polymerization (when exposed to oxygen, an additional film is formed on the surface).

Polyurethane waterproof paints can be used in high humidity areas where the surface to be painted consists of plastic, concrete, metal, glass or wood.

4. Alkyd waterproof paints. Contains heavy metal alkyds. They have the same moisture resistance as polyurethane paints. Suitable for painting in technical rooms and not suitable for use in residential buildings.

How to apply paint in wet areas

When properly applied to the surface, waterproof paints can last up to 10 years. In bathrooms and kitchens, paint is applied in the following steps:

  • Surface preparation. You need to remove all previous coating from the walls: peeling paint, plaster.
  • Wall alignment. The walls must be even, if necessary, some areas need to be puttied.
  • Apply 2 coats of primer to prepared surface. The first coat will cover bumps, cracks and depressions. After the first coat has completely dried, apply the second one to get a perfectly even surface.
  • Wall finish. After waiting for the primer to dry, the surface can be coated with waterproof paint.

How to apply water-based paint

You can use a brush, spray gun or roller to paint. Spray painting provides economical paint consumption, thin coverage and fast work. The paint penetrates well into the porous surface of the primer and lays down evenly.

Rollers are also handy for quick work, only they do not allow access to corners and other hard-to-reach places. With a brush, on the contrary, you can easily walk around the corners, but the paint consumption increases markedly. Brush and roller can be used together. First brush in difficult areas and then paint over the main area with a roller.

For decorative work, when several shades or colors are to be used in painting, use masking tape or special adhesive stencils. For better durability of the coating, we recommend applying up to 3 coats of paint.

Properties of water-based paints

Previously, paints did not have high resistance to water, so manufacturers have improved the composition. Now the paint meets all modern requirements:

  • Water resistance. All moisture-resistant paints have film-forming components, this property gives it a water-repellent effect.
  • Antiseptic action. Since special antiseptic components are added to the composition of the paints, the likelihood of the appearance of fungi and mold on the surface of moisture-resistant paints is reduced.
  • Chemical and mechanical resistance. The painted surface can be cleaned with detergents, including disinfectant solutions.