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Modern emulsion finish


which Farrow & Ball paint finish is best? |

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Farrow & Ball’s distinctively deep shades add character to homes old and new, but choosing the right paint finish is essential if you want to showcase them at their best. When it comes to deciding between Estate emulsion vs Modern emulsion, you’ll need to carefully consider what you want – and need – from your paint finishes, taking durability into account as well as appearance.

‘Both are great paints but differ depending on what sort of finish you are looking for. Estate emulsion will give a chalkier and more authentic finish. Modern emulsion will give you a higher sheen than Estate, but will be harder wearing, and will ultimately last longer’, explains Michael Rolland, interiors expert and managing director at The Paint Shed . 

Ultimately, when deciding between Estate emulsion vs Modern emulsion, it’s not which Farrow & Ball paint finish is best overall, but which is best for you and your decorating requirements. Below, we explain the differences between the two finishes, to ensure you feel confident in your choice.  

The primary difference between Farrow & Ball’s Estate and Modern emulsion is the sheen level. Estate emulsion has a lower gloss percentage, just 2 per cent, creating a flat finish, with Modern emulsion at 7 per cent, the sheen level of a matte paint. 

This difference in sheen affects the durability, as well as the appearance.

‘Estate emulsion is a much flatter finish than modern, which makes it less durable, and therefore more suitable to areas of the house without much contact or moisture. Modern emulsion has a higher sheen, which means it can stand up to more vigorous cleaning, as well as tolerate a higher moisture content in a bathroom or kitchen’, says Andre Kazimierski, CEO at Improovy Painters Hinsdale .

Modern emulsion has a slightly higher sheen level of 7 per cent which makes it the more durable of the two – generally the higher the sheen level, the more durable the paint finish.  

‘If it’s durability you’re after, we recommend Modern Emulsion for walls and as a paint finish for ceilings, it’s super tough’, says Charlotte Cosby, Head of Creative at Farrow & Ball. ‘It’s washable, scuff-proof, and protects against mold, making it suitable for use in any room including moisture-prone kitchens and as a paint finish for bathrooms.' 

Which is easier to clean? 

In line with its durability, Modern emulsion is easier to clean. Unlike Estate emulsion, which is wipeable but not washable, it’s proven to retain its condition. 

Both Estate and Modern emulsions have been designed for painting walls inside a home, however, the difference in durability and appearance will likely impact which areas of the home you choose to use them in. 

In terms of appearance, Modern emulsion has a little sheen while Estate emulsion is more like a matte. Estate’s chalky good looks make it a popular choice in homes both old and new, but it is more susceptible to scuffs and marks.

‘For this reason, Estate emulsion is often the preferred choice for ceilings, bedrooms and low-traffic areas around the home’, explains Michael Rolland. ‘Modern emulsion would be advisable for hallways, kitchens and other-high traffic areas, where durability is important.'

Is Farrow & Ball Modern Emulsion shiny? 

Modern emulsion has a sheen level of 7 per cent which, while technically classed as a matte finish, is towards the higher end of the category (10 per cent is usually the cut-off). This means there is a slight shine, so if it’s a completely matte finish you’re after, this isn’t the emulsion for you. Be conscious that the sheen level is more obvious with darker colors, too. 

‘For a matte finish, we’d recommend Estate emulsion,’ says Charlotte. ‘Its distinctive chalky look minimizes existing imperfections in the painting surface and scatters light around a room to fully express the depth of our colors.'

Choosing between Estate emulsion vs Modern emulsion for your home ultimately depends on what and where you’re painting. As mentioned above, it’s not which is best overall – they’re both great in their own right – but which is best for you and your decorating needs. 

‘Our biggest tip when choosing a finish is to think about how you use the space. If your walls are in a high traffic area with wayward fingers or paws, you’ll thank yourself later for choosing a durable finish that can be wiped down quickly and easily, such as our Modern emulsion,’ advises Charlotte. 

As well as factoring in practicalities such as durability and washability, it’s also important to think about the overall look you’re trying to achieve in the room you’re painting. 

‘Not all rooms have the same requirements in terms of durability, so you can afford to take a more decorative approach,’ says Charlotte. Estate emulsion’s chalky appearance softens bright colors so you can afford to be a bit more daring, while its tactile finish creates a lovely cozy feel. Its low-shine finish also has the added benefit of disguising imperfections – great if you’re painting uneven surfaces.  

For 10 years, Tara King worked as a Content Editor in the magazine industry, before leaving to become freelance, covering interior design, wellbeing, craft and homemaking. As well as writing for Ideal Home, Style at Home, Country Homes & Interiors, Tara’s keen eye for styling combined with a passion for creating a happy – and functional – family home has led to a series of organization and cleaning features for H&G. 

Farrow & Ball Finish Guide – Verde Home

Find Your FinishOur richly pigmented paints are created to work in harmony with every part of your world.

Whether you’re after the signature chalky matt of our Estate Emulsion, or the durability of washable Modern Emulsion, our distinctive hues are available in a full range of interior and exterior finishes.

Estate Emulsion

Estate Emulsion is our signature chalky, very matt finish. Carefully crafted to give a flatter finish, its 2% sheen level responds extraordinarily to all types of light. Estate Emulsion is a sophisticated choice for interior walls and ceilings – perfectly suited to less busy areas such as bedrooms and living rooms.

Estate Emulsion is:

 

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Estate Eggshell

Estate Eggshell is as robust as it is beautiful, providing a subtle finish for interior wood and metal. This low 20% sheen is highly resistant to a wide variety of stains including wine, coffee and crayon, and is an ideal way to update woodwork, kitchen cupboards, furniture pieces and radiators.

Estate Eggshell is:

 

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Modern Emulsion

A durable and versatile matt finish, Modern Emulsion is washable and mould resistant, making it especially suited to bathrooms and kitchens as well as busy areas. It demonstrates excellent scrub and stain resistance, earning a Class 1 scrub rating.

Modern Emulsion is:

 

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Modern Eggshell

The toughest product in our range, Modern Eggshell transforms kitchen cabinetry, skirting boards, stairs, floors, and other hardworking interior wood or metal surfaces. With a subtle 40% sheen, it makes for a glossier alternative to Estate Eggshell.

Modern Eggshell is:

 

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Full Gloss

Noted as the glossiest water based finish on the market, Full Gloss has a wonderfully reflective 95% sheen that makes a dramatic statement. Resistant to water, flaking, peeling and color fade for up to six years*, its high durability makes it perfect for wood, walls and metal both inside and out.**

Full Gloss is:

 

Key Information

 

**Please note, this product is not suitable for use on exterior plastic surfaces or decking.

*sProviding it has been applied in accordance with our product advice sheets, which can be found on farrow-ball.com.

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Exterior Eggshell

A versatile finish with a silky 20% sheen, Exterior Eggshell adds lasting color to almost anything in your outdoor space, from wooden window frames and cladding to metal guttering and railings. * Our flexible resin rich formula gently expands and contracts with the weather to avoid flaking, peeling and fading for up to six years.**

Exterior Eggshell is:

 

Key Information

 

*Please note, this product is not suitable for use on exterior plastic surfaces or decking.

**Providing it has been applied in accordance with our product advice sheets, which can be found on farrow-ball.com.

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Exterior Masonry

Developed by our chemists to offer the perfect combination of breathability and water resistance, this classic matt creates the most elegant finish for your masonry. With a durable 2% sheen finish and Class 1 water vapor permeability, Exterior Masonry is resistant to flaking, peeling and color fade for up to 15 years.*

Exterior Masonry is:

 

Key Information

 

*Providing it has been applied in accordance with our product advice sheets, which can be found on farrow-ball.com. Not suitable for use on highly alkaline or very porous surfaces such as lime render or fletton bricks.

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Specialist Finishes

Our specialist range has been crafted around authentic traditional finishes that not only look beautiful, but can also help to preserve the qualities of original period features. From the delicate Soft Distemper to the ultra-breathable Limewash, this selection of specialist finishes is ideal for renovators of historic properties, bringing out the very best in interiors, exteriors, and those all-important details.

Our Specialists Finishes include:

 

Click here for specifics on these four finishes.

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what is it, composition, how to paint walls with your own hands, technology


The key criteria when choosing building materials are their safety, long service life and ease of installation. The rest of the criteria go by the wayside. Modern manufacturers offer a wide selection of finishing materials, even for the most picky customers. Coloring compositions also have certain features. It is worth understanding what water-based paint is, what nuances it has and how to use it correctly.

  • Technology for applying water-based paints
    • How to paint walls with your own hands
  • Popular manufacturers of water-based paints
  • Video: Painting walls with water-based paint

    • its water base.

    A polymer emulsion, such as polyacrylate, is added to it. The advantages are a safe composition, environmental friendliness, fire safety.

    This paint is very popular due to the combination of affordable cost and excellent performance.

    The product has the following specifications:

    1. Viscosity index. It is affected by the concentration of water in the mixture. Viscosity is important to consider when choosing the right application tool. For a roller and brush, 40 St is suitable, and if an airbrush is used, then the indicator should be a maximum of 25 St.
    2. LKM dries for at least 2 hours. This process can take up to a day. Everything depends on the conditions. If there is high humidity in the room, ventilation is poor, water evaporation is slower. Maintain room temperature and monitor humidity levels, which should be around 70%.
    3. The expiration date is one year from the date of manufacture. If the composition has been opened, it is recommended to store it in a dark place and prevent freezing.

    The paint is very popular due to the combination of affordable cost and excellent performance.

    Emulsion paint uses an average of 180 ml per square meter. The indicator varies depending on the quality of the composition, the surface to be treated and the tools used.

    The first application of any coating consumes 30% more than subsequent coats.

    When the paint is applied, the water component evaporates, the mixture dries and only a film remains on the surface. It may have a polymer structure or be in the form of mineral particles. At the same time, this type of coating does not have a sharp specific smell. Therefore, surface treatment can be carried out even indoors and for those who are allergic to building materials, mixtures.

    Emulsion paint uses an average of 180 ml per square meter.

    Advantages and disadvantages of

    Among the advantages of this paint it is worth noting:

    With the right temperature and normal humidity, the composition will dry out in a couple of hours.

    Types of emulsion paints, which is better

    Water-based paints for walls and other surfaces are divided into several types. It is necessary to take this into account before purchasing, so that the cladding is of high quality and durable.

    Water-based paints for walls and other surfaces are divided into several types.

    Polyvinyl acetate

    They are among the cheapest types. Absolutely safe and non-toxic. Can be used in closed rooms. The name was given due to the presence of PVA glue in the composition. Able to withstand the negative effects of fats, sunlight. They do not tolerate wet environments. Therefore, surfaces treated with such coatings cannot be washed. After some time, the paint may acquire a yellow tint.

    Absolutely safe and non-toxic.

    Mineral

    Cement, calcium hydroxide or slaked lime is added to the composition. Suitable for all types of surfaces, but especially often used for concrete and brick. A feature of the species is the good quality of vapor permeability. Therefore, they are not afraid of temperature drops. Over time, the original shade changes, fades. The service life is short, which is why they are rarely used in the decoration of the apartment.

    Suitable for all types of surfaces, but especially used on concrete and brick.

    Silicate

    Contains liquid glass. The look is durable and long lasting. But it does not cope with concrete and is not suitable for surfaces with plaster. Withstand temperature fluctuations. Water can ruin the coating, so they should only be used for interior decoration.

    The look is strong and durable.

    Acrylic

    The most popular type of coating, which includes acrylic resin. Suitable for any type of surface, but the metal must be pre-primed. It serves for a long time, withstands mechanical stress, a humid environment. When used economically, the consumption is small.

    Long service life, withstands mechanical impact, humid environment.

    Latex

    Latex based paints are relatively expensive. Latex is needed to increase the waterproof function. The resulting treated surface can be washed even with detergents. Brightness, hue do not suffer. But the species does not tolerate low temperatures and often condensation can be seen on the surface.

    The resulting treated surface can be washed even with detergents.

    Silicone

    Can be used for ceiling. There are special separate brands of such paints with increased adhesion to the canvas. Therefore, they do not flow and are easy to apply. The increased density of the composition allows you to mask shallow cracks. Can be used in rooms with high humidity. The mixture is resistant to the development of the fungus.

    Paint does not flow and is easy to apply.

    Making your own water-based paint

    You can make your own water-based paint. For this you need to take:

    Start by mixing water and glue. Then powder and plasticizer are added to them. The result should be a mixture of white. Only after that you can enter the dye. When the desired tone is obtained, the mixture is filtered. The composition is ready for use. Viscosity must be determined by eye based on the tools with which the paint is applied to the surface.

    Viscosity must be determined by eye, based on the tools with which the paint is applied to the surface.

    How to breed

    The product is often sold in white. The desired shade is obtained with the help of color, which is added in the store or on your own. In the latter case, it is recommended to make a reserve from the main amount of the mixture so that the surface can be updated. It is also worth first mixing a small amount of material and applying it to the surface. If the color suits you, you can combine the rest of the mixture.

    Instructions for use are indicated on the paint package. They must be strictly observed. If it is indicated that water should be added after opening, this should not be neglected.

    If you plan to use a spray gun to spray the composition, then only distilled water is used for dilution. The usual will provoke the formation of plaque.

    Instructions for use are indicated on the paint package.

    Water-based paint technology

    The surface must be prepared before applying the compound. The old cladding is removed, cracks and defects are repaired. Then treated with a primer. Only then can you start painting.

    Subsequent layers after the first must be applied only after the previous one has dried. On average, you should wait about 8 hours. At the same time, it is recommended to exclude drafts in the room where the staining takes place.

    The old lining is removed, cracks and defects are repaired.

    How to paint walls with your own hands

    Painting walls with water-based compositions is quite simple. After surface preparation, a suitable tool is selected. Do not use a short pile roller as it does not pick up enough material. The brush is suitable for hard-to-reach places.

    It is worth remembering to protect other objects and surfaces in the room from paint drops. You can start with a brush. She paints the entire perimeter of the wall, then armed with a roller. Start at the top and move down. In corners, joints, difficult places, the roller is changed to a brush. If there are several window openings, it is necessary to paint several times from the window to the wall. The layers must be perpendicular.

    Do not use a short pile roller as it does not pick up enough material.

    Popular manufacturers of water-based paints

    Among the popular manufacturers it is worth noting:

    1. "Mizar" from Rezolux Universal. Consumption is economical, can be used in high humidity, suitable for the bathroom. The manufacturer indicates that the coating will last up to 10 years.

      Economical consumption, can be used in high humidity, suitable for the bathroom.

    2. Dufa. In the arsenal of the manufacturer, the paint is matte water-based, as well as glossy in different colors. The quality of the material is good, it has a long service life.

      Good material quality, long service life.

    Water-based formulations offer many benefits and are easy to apply to the surface. But you should strictly follow the manufacturer's recommendations indicated in the instructions on the package. Otherwise, the coating will be of poor quality.

    Video: Painting walls with water-based paint

    what are the types of repair paints, varieties, types

    Today, many people do repairs on their own, and every year there are more opportunities for this. How to make sure that in the future the paint does not fade, crack or swell? What you need to know before painting and how to choose paint? Let's deal with these questions.

    So let's choose paint. What do you need to know? First, make it a rule to always prepare the surface before painting. We take a rag and wash off everything that we have accumulated: grease, dirt, soot. Oh, are you so clean? And the dust? We remove it too. Then we remove the old paint, especially if it is swollen and cracked. It can be done mechanically, or it can be done with a special liquid for removing old paint. We putty the bumps. And whose wall often turns black, it's time to treat it with an antiseptic. There are many ways to protect the surface and make it durable. Now let's get to the primer. It will allow the paint to stick better and play the role of protection. The primer is applied both to the new surface and to the old paint (if the layer is thin and it lies evenly). And only after complete drying can you start painting. If the surface is not even, has cracks, bumps and pits, you need to use putty, and after applying the primer.


    If you want to give the surface special properties, for example, to protect it from corrosion or make it resistant to temperature changes, or simply to protect the surface from the effects of various microorganisms, such as mold, fungi, lichen, you need antiseptics and impregnations. But sometimes active antiseptic substances are contained in the paints themselves.

    You should also consider the compatibility of paints. It is easier to initially select a compatible material than to wash off the old paint “to zero”, neutralize the reaction and only then continue to work according to the algorithm, as on a new surface. Ignorance can lead to a very unpleasant surprise.

    How to read a paint label?

    Paints are conditionally divided into groups according to the type of film-forming base. They are emulsion, alkyd, adhesive, silicate. But more on that later. The necessary information is indicated in alphanumeric codes on the bank. The first two letters indicate the nature of the film-forming base.

    Next comes the numeric code. The first one or two digits will tell you about the scope. The rest of the numbers are the serial number.

    In marking, the exception is finished oil paints. The letters MA - denote oil paint, the first digit is the scope, the second - which drying oil is used as the basis:

    And now let's talk about groups of paints and determine the main advantages and disadvantages of certain materials for painting.

    First group: water-based paints

    Emulsion paints

    Emulsion paints are diluted with water (do not dissolve), their binder base and coloring particles are distributed in an aqueous medium, forming a stable emulsion. After drying, they are not washed off with water. But it is easy to wash hands and tools from them (until the material is dry). Emulsion paints are economical, distinguished by their environmental friendliness, fire safety. Sticks well to almost any surface. Metal coatings must be primed to prevent corrosion. Emulsion paints must not be applied to a surface previously painted with glossy paints, adhesive paints. The same applies to lacquered surfaces. In turn, after emulsion paints, you can use any paints and enamels. Emulsion paints dry quickly and do not have a sharp unpleasant odor. They are alkali resistant.

    Emulsion paints are divided into: water-based, acrylic, polyvinyl acetate (PVA), latex, water-dispersion and silicone. Many people think that water-based and water-dispersion paints are one and the same. All of them do not have the peculiarity of peeling off, they are permeable to air and water vapor, that is, they “breathe”. Suitable for rooms with high humidity, not frost-resistant, but retain their color for a long time (read a detailed analysis of how to choose the color of a room).


    But there are still differences. Matte water-based paints are gradually washed off over time, and water-dispersion moisture-resistant paints, which means they are suitable for repeated washing. In addition, water-dispersion paints are mostly white, and water-based paints amaze with a variety of colors. Water-dispersion paints must not be applied at temperatures below +5°C.

    In addition, there are water-based paints designed to create three-dimensional effects - textured paints, which are also called structural paints. They can successfully decorate surfaces. Such coatings are also distinguished by high strength. They can play the role of reinforcement to protect the surface from cracking. Often, textured paints are called decorative plasters or textured plasters

    Textured plasters

    The binding element for acrylic paints are acrylic resins. These paints are highly elastic (adapted to the specifics of the wood) and have great durability. High-quality acrylic paints are able to cover hairline cracks up to 0.5 mm. Too bad they are quite expensive. Their cheaper counterparts are made on the basis of acrylic copolymers. Acrylic paints are frost-resistant, but only after complete drying. They have low gas permeability, and therefore can well protect against corrosion, for example, reinforced concrete. Suitable for alkaline bases, but they can be applied to fresh plaster no earlier than a month later. The reason is the low gas impermeability: carbon dioxide is involved in the hardening process of the plaster, and this process is quite long.

    Acrylic paints

    Acrylic paints are not suitable for buildings with damp walls. These paints are perfectly tinted and resistant to ultraviolet, excellent color retention. They also combine water repellency and vapor resistance. They have the highest mechanical resistance.

    Latex paints

    Latex paints are the most expensive of the emulsion paints. They are made with the addition of latex. This gives a strong water-repellent effect, which means you can wash the surface as much as you want. They are able to tighten hairline cracks up to 1 mm. Latex paints are used on different surfaces: structured wallpaper, walls (concrete, plaster, brick, drywall), ceilings. Dry in 20-60 minutes. But their light fastness is lower than that of emulsion acrylic paints and PVA.


    Polyvinyl acetate (PVA) paints

    Polyvinyl acetate (PVA) paints, unlike latex, are the most budgetary. However, they also have low water resistance, and with regular washing, the coating is gradually washed away with water. The paint is environmentally friendly, highly resistant to light, oils and fats, suitable for indoor use, especially for painting ceilings. By the way, read the article on how to choose paint for the ceiling.

    Silicone paints

    Here, emulsified silicone resins serve as a binding element. Silicone resins are sometimes even added to acrylic paints. Silicone paints, when dried, form a water-repellent surface, but they perfectly pass air and water vapor. They have high elasticity and are able to cover hairline cracks up to 2 mm. Silicone paints can be applied to fresh plaster after 48 hours (and not after 30 days like acrylic paints). Silicone paints can be applied to all types of mineral surfaces.

    They are compatible with acrylic latex and mineral paints. They can even be applied over old silicate paint. Silicone coatings are resistant to dirt, and also prevent the development of microorganisms. Their only drawback is their high cost. Therefore, they are used mainly for decoration, especially if they want to emphasize the prestige of the building.


    Second group: solvent based paints

    Alkyd paints

    The binding element of alkyd paints is alkyd resin. Alkyd paints include enamel and oil paints. Suitable for painting plastered surfaces as well as wood and metal substrates (eg metal radiators). After drying, non-toxic, waterproof.

    Oil paints

    Popular in the past, oil paints are made on the basis of drying oil. Thinners are white spirit, turpentine, solvent naphtha or gasoline. They cost quite little, but dry for a very long time (up to several days). When dried, they release harmful substances, so they are more suitable for outdoor work. Their significant drawback is that over the years the painted surface turns yellow.

    Enamels

    Enamel paints are made on the basis of varnish and it is precisely because of this that they have a high gloss and look very beautiful. Enamel paints are used for painting metal, appliances, wooden surfaces, walls (plastered and puttied), and so on. They can be used for both indoor and outdoor work. Nitroenamels dry very quickly - 15-45 minutes. Enamel paints are waterproof and resistant to rust and light.


    Third group: silicate paints

    Silicate paints

    Silicate paints are made on the basis of liquid glass, they can be classified as mineral. This is one of the best ways to protect the facade. Characteristics of silicate paints: vapor and air permeability, increased resistance to temperature extremes and ultraviolet radiation, friability, weak reaction to water. It should be borne in mind that silicate paints are not only stable, they are practically indelible. Silicate paints are diluted with water and contain alkali - take care of your eyes and skin. They must not be applied to surfaces previously painted with acrylic or alkyd paints, or applied to glass, ceramic, stone or metal surfaces. But they are suitable for alkaline surfaces, for example, plasters. The primer before painting should also be silicate.

    Silicate paints cannot protect walls from atmospheric moisture. During heavy rains, water, albeit not for long, lingers in the walls. However, with poor waterproofing of the foundation, they are very useful if the humidity in the walls is higher than atmospheric. The color range of silicate paints is limited due to the alkali contained in the composition.


    Fourth group: glue paints

    glue paints

    Made from water-based organic polymers. They are environmentally friendly because they do not contain toxic or harmful chemical compounds. Their properties are similar to emulsion paints, but adhesive paints are less resistant to moisture, so the scope of application is very limited - such materials are only suitable for painting dry rooms. Adhesive paints are produced in dry form and diluted with water immediately before use.

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