What is enamel paint and where is it used

Enamel paint is undoubtedly one of the most popular materials among its “classmates”. They are easy to work with, they form a beautiful glossy finish and are inexpensive. But which enamel to choose for specific purposes?

What is enamel paint?

Enamel paint (or simply enamel) is one of the types of paints and varnishes. Most often, they consist of 5 components: varnish, some kind of solvent (for example, white spirit), pigments, filler and various functional additives.

Enamels are used for indoor and outdoor use, as they lie on any surface. Metals, wood and even concrete - everything can be painted with enamel paints. However, it is worth remembering that they are toxic and fire hazard due to the varnish in the composition.

Enamels have high moisture resistance and firmly protect the surface from external influences. For staining, you need to prepare it elementarily - remove the old coating and dirt.

Types of Enamels

Among enamels, it is customary to distinguish the following types:

Alkyd enamels are perhaps the most popular type. Alkyd enamels are elastic, durable and dry quickly. Often they are used in bathrooms and pools, as they are not afraid of moisture and temperature changes. Each type of alkyd enamel, like any other paint, has its own code, for example: PF-253. The first letters - PF (pentaphthalic) - the basis of the paint. The first figure defines the scope, 2 - internal work, 1 - external. And the last digits - 53 - are the catalog number.
Nitro enamels - produced on the basis of cellulose nitrate. Noteworthy in that they dry in a couple of hours at room temperature. And at the same time emit a large amount of toxic substances. Therefore, they are prohibited in many countries or severely limited. Their main application is the painting of wooden surfaces. By the way, it is better to apply nitro enamel using a special spray, since it is inconvenient to apply quick-drying paint with a brush.
Polyurethane enamels - have increased wear resistance. Therefore, they are often used for painting floors in rooms with a large number of people. For example, in museums or schools. On the second day after painting, the surface is ready for loading. It is necessary to work with polyurethane enamels in goggles and gloves, as they are toxic. The room must be aired during operation.

How to buy high-quality enamel paint

First, look at the can of paint. She should not have any damage. This is an important point, because if the packaging is not sealed, the paint will lose its properties. Secondly, enamel paint should not be old. Therefore, you need to carefully study the expiration date. And, finally, the inscription "GOST" should be on the package with enamel. Each type of enamel has its own GOST.

Particular attention should be paid to the code of enamel paint, so paint cannot be used in residential premises for outdoor use. It is better to study in advance what each character of the code means.