Why Acrylic Emulsion Paints Are the Smart Choice for Indian Homes?
In India, homes are not merely built for residing. They are built to resist nature. With the damp embrace of monsoons and the frenzy of cleaning during festivals, our interiors need to be as resilient as they are beautiful. Our homes do not get a day of respite, neither do our walls!
The colour factor also weighs heavily on the mood of the homes. Rich reds for prosperity, yellow for warmth, and greens for balance, you’ll see choices that reflect region, tradition, and family stories. With the new-age Indian homeowners seeking paints that fulfil affordability, durability, aesthetics, and ease of application, Acrylic Emulsion Paints (AEPs) have been crowned top-ranking in India.
Let’s take a closer look at what makes these so suitable for Indian homes.
What are Acrylic Emulsion Paints?
Acrylic Emulsion Paints are water-based paints that utilize acrylic resins to bind pigments. This means they are smooth, quick-drying, breathable, and more durable against cracking and fading than distempers. In addition, they can provide a wide variety of luxurious finishes such as matte, satin, and gloss, allowing homeowners the liberty to style each room differently according to mood, light, or function.
Acrylic Emulsion Paints vs. Acrylic Paints
On the face of it, Acrylic Paint and Acrylic Emulsion Paint look the same, but possess different characteristics. Acrylic Paints are thick, full-bodied pigments used mainly for arts and crafts on surfaces such as canvas, wood, and paper. On the other hand, Acrylic Emulsion Paints are specially formulated for walls and large surfaces. They are water-based, dry faster and offer durability. These emulsion paints are well suited to withstand weather changes, moisture, and stains and hence are ideal for Indian homes. So, both may share a common polymer base, but their usage and formulation differ as per surface and the needs.
Why Acrylic Emulsion Paints Are a Game-Changer
- Washable and stain-resistant: Whether it’s your toddler’s masterpiece in crayon or a masala stain from your last dinner party, AEPs can handle it. Just wipe down your walls, and they’re good as new.
- Low odour: Modern day AEPs are designed for Low VOC. The smell on AEPs is mild and disappears fast, allowing you to use the space soon. It is advisable if you use paints which are Green Guard certified by IGBC.
- Eco-Friendly and Safe: Low in Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs), AEPs are water based and hence safer for environment and families, especially in the presence of children, pets, or aged people. It is advisable to use paints which are Green Guard certified by IGBC.
- Easy application: AEPs apply easily, even if you are simply filling the weekend with a little DIY project or calling in the professionals.
- Colours in abundance: From vivid marigold to gentle pastels, AEPs come in an array of colours to suit every mood and story you want to tell.
FAQs –
1. How to apply acrylic emulsion paint?
Start by cleaning the wall and removing dust, grease, or flakes of old paint. You should also look for and fix up any cracks or holes in the wall.
Then, apply a recommended good quality primer.
Now you may add recommend quantity of clean potable water to the AEP to in the ratio mentioned in the manufacturer instructions, which is usually 30–50% for the first coat and 20–30% for the second.
For application, you can use a roller, brush, or spray. Make sure you apply minimum 2 coats for getting an even coverage of the paint. Some darker colors may require 3 coats.
Before applying the subsequent coat, allow the first coat to dry for about 4 to 6 hours.
2. Are there different grades or qualities of AEPs? If so, how do I choose them for Interior Painting?
Yes, there are several grades of AEPs you can choose from:
- Economy Grade: This quality of AEPs provides basic durability and comes in a limited shade range. You may opt matt or shine finish based on your choice. An Economy grade AEP like MRF’s Visa Interior Emulsion is best for rental properties or low-traffic areas.
- Premium Grade: They have better washability, finish, and coverage, which makes them ideal for main living areas. You can go for MRF’s Altura 2-in-1 Acrylic Emulsion if you want to experience premium grade of AEPs. You may opt matt or shine finish based on your choice
- Luxury/High-End Grade: Luxury grade of AEPs comes with improved aesthetics, longer life, and smooth It offers washability, scrub resistance, sheen uniformity & durability. MRF’s Aquafresh Interior or Ruca Luxury Interior Emulsion is the one to go for if you’re looking for feature walls or high-end interiors.
3. Can acrylic emulsion paint be used on exterior surfaces?
It is not advisable to use Interior Emulsions for exterior conditions. Yes, in fact there are separate range of acrylic emulsion paints available for exterior use and they are best & ideal for exterior conditions. There are other cheaper chemistries available in the market where the exterior paint would be subject to rapid color fading, peeling, and just poor durability at the ends of externally placed walls. Instead, you can use MRF paints Exterior Emulsion Paints like AquaFresh Exterior or Altura Acrylic Emulsion, which withstand exterior weather conditions. For economy projects, one can use MRF’s Campus Exterior Emulsion Paint. These paints offer durable finish; good dirt pick up resistance & long 8 years warranty as well.
4. Can AEPs be used over old paint or distemper without issues?
Yes, AEPs can be applied above old distemper or paint but there should be surface preparation as failure to prepare may very well result in peeling or uneven coverage.
On old Paint: Lightly sand the surface and make sure that there are no loose flakes on the wall. Then use recommended wall putty and primer to make your walls smooth, which helps provide a good bond & final finish for the AEP.
Old Distemper: Most of it should be removed, because distemper is chalky, usually flakes over the time and might not allow the AEP to adhere properly. Apply a recommended putty, primer or sealer to condition the surface prior to AEP application.
5. What surfaces can AEPs be applied to?
AEPs are best suited for surfaces like plastered walls, cement and POP (Plaster of Paris). If the AEPs are designed for wall paint category, they are not ideal for wood, metal, or glossy surfaces. However, there are some paints specifically designed for wood/metal, or other surfaces which may require you to use a special primer or undercoat.
6. Do I need to apply primer before using acrylic emulsion paint?
Yes, you have to. New walls need a primer as it is essential for sealing and better adhesion and in case of previously painted surfaces, primer helps if the old paint is chalky, or you’re changing from a dark to a light colour. A primer also ensures colour consistency and prevents peeling of topcoat film from the surface.
7. How long should I wait between coats?
Ideally, you should follow the specific product label instructions for best results. Most paints need approximately 4 to 6 hours to dry. In humid or monsoon conditions, give it a bit more time to dry fully.
8. Is repainting easy with AEP, or does the old layer need to be removed first?
Yes, repainting with AEP is relatively easy. You just need to clean and sand the surface lightly to remove dirt and ensure adhesion. You don’t need to strip off the entire old layer unless it’s damaged or peeling. It depends on the condition, quality and age of the old paint as well. If you use the recommended primer and topcoat systems, then it makes AEP ideal for regular updates and colour refreshes.
Acrylic Emulsion Paints are a perfect balance of utility and aesthetics which is most suitable for Indian homes. They are durable, provide a chic finish and are easy to maintain. Whether you are renovating your house or laying the foundation for an entirely new space, AEPs enliven your walls with charm and confidence.
