Mural paint - Paints

... up drying. In the very ancient ages, no thickener was used; you got a paint by simply mixing pigments with water. Some paintings made with these materials have been preserved because they have been "fixed" by atmospheric conditions. Others were lost. The rock paintings of prehistoric man, for example, often practiced on limestone rock walls (rich in lime) have often been well preserved. Depending on their basic components and additives, the paints come in several families. First, acrylic paints that are water paintings, easy to apply, odorless, usable on many media, indoors and outdoors. They dry quickly and do not turn yellow. Then you have the glycero paints. They contain solvents, are more resistant, and give a smoother finish. However, these paints have the disadvantage of drying more slowly than acrylic paints and from the smell during application. It is clear that glycero paints are now being removed because they contain volatile organic components (VOCs), which are very harmful to health. But it's going to take years. Some acrylic paintings have been awarded an eco-label: the European Eco Label, created by the European Parliament. This label is awarded to products that respect the environment and people throughout their life cycle, from raw materials to waste disposal. To obtain this, paints must not contain heavy metals (cadmium, lead, mercury, arsenic, etc.) and their content of solvent hydrocarbons must be limited. On what criteria should one choose his painting? Of course, you have to take into account the medium on which you will apply your paint, but it should also be chosen according to the finish (mat, gloss or satin) and the part in which it will be applied. Thus, the matte rendering gives a hushed, intimate and sober appearance. It highlights the purity of the colors and camouflages the small imperfections of the wall. This type of finish is often used for ceilings, bedrooms and the renovation of old dwellings. Silky, warm, satin is a long-lasting one, so it adapts to living rooms and bathrooms; it may even be preferred for high-traffic rooms such as the entrance or corridors. It is always better to have a smooth and well-prepared support. The bright appearance returns the light and gives a mirror effect. It is recommended for water parts and finishes. Be careful, it highlights the slightest defects of a support. (Hervé Bellegarde, an expert at the Confederation of Craftsmen and Building Companies)