The traditional option of decorating the walls of the bathroom with tile is increasingly inferior to painting today. The latter method of decoration makes it possible to bring to life the individual creative ideas of the owner, to create an unusual design. In practical terms, the paint is convenient, and changing the design with it is much easier and cheaper than shifting the tile.
- The advantages of paint over tiles
- What paint can I use in the bathroom?
- Latex paint: specifications
- Acrylate (Acrylic or Polyacrylic)
- Silicone Water Dispersion
- Alkyd enamel
- Oil
- Direct water protection
- Painting options
The advantages of paint over tiles
One of the easiest ways to update a design is to paint the walls. We highlight the main advantages of this technique in comparison with tile masonry:
- Availability. To lay tiles, you need certain skills. Even a layman can paint the walls: more important is not so much the process itself as the preparatory stage (leveling and primer).
- Practicality. Modern paints do not require special care, they are easy to wash, do not fade, many formulations resist the formation of mold and fungus, which is especially important for rooms with high humidity. And in case of damage, such a coating is much easier to restore than tile.
- Wide range of. Each major manufacturer of paints and varnishes presents its product line for such purposes. This created a variety of palettes with different operational characteristics.
- Great space for creativity. Various combinations of shades, textures, application methods allow you to create modern bathroom designs. And in combination with special stencils and rollers, this process becomes even simpler and more creative.
- Cost. The costs of preparatory work, paint and roller will be much less than for tiles, adhesives, grouting, tools.
What paint can I use in the bathroom?
For the bathroom, any paint will not work, you need to take into account the specifics of the room:
- high humidity;
- exposure to high temperatures;
- hit of detergents: shampoo, soap, etc .;
- frequent washing.
Therefore, for such purposes, special formulations are used, on which marks of the type “moisture resistant” and the like are indicated. Consider the popular types of such materials and their features.
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Latex paint: specifications
This type of water-based coating based on natural latex has hydrophobic properties, which is why it is often used in the bathroom. As it dries, a dense waterproof film forms on the surface, which protects against moisture, dirt, has an increased resistance to cleaning.
The advantage of this type is its strength: it will last for many years. Easy to apply, dries quickly, has no unpleasant odor. It creates a spectacular silk sheen on the surface, different shades are available, you can use color.
It is very important to prepare the walls well before painting. They should be even, as latex emphasizes all the flaws.
This coating is considered an expensive material, but given the low expense and durability, the cost justifies itself.
to contents ↑Acrylate (Acrylic or Polyacrylic)
A kind of latex coating, made with the addition of synthetic (acrylate) rubber. This paint is optimal for use in the bathroom due to its characteristics:
- high moisture resistance - moisture on contact with the surface does not affect its quality;
- vapor permeability - does not interfere with natural gas exchange, allows the surface to "breathe";
- strength and durability - it is resistant to abrasion, therefore it is often used in places with a large crowd of people: cafes, public catering, shops, hospitals, etc .;
- universality - has high adhesion (adhesion) to different materials: concrete, plaster, brick, glass, metal, plastic;
- safety - there are no toxic solvents and salts of heavy metals;
- does not fade in the sun, a saturated tone persists for years;
- has a slight unexpressed odor;
- applicable for high and low temperatures.
Among the shortcomings, we note the long drying and the inability to overlap with another paint, only acrylic lies on top.
to contents ↑Silicone Water Dispersion
Another water-based composition that does not have a pungent odor is easily applied to different surfaces: concrete, wood, glass, plastic. It is vapor permeable, therefore application to the metal is undesirable: it will rust under the influence of moisture.
Used in problem rooms prone to mold. It is easy to clean, retains color for a long time, and can last more than 20 years. A distinctive feature of this composition is the ability to hide small roughnesses and cracks, so it is suitable for non-ideal surfaces.
The cost is relatively high, but it is justified due to long-term operation and quality.
Alkyd enamel
Such a coating is used not only for internal, but also for external work. The strength of the film, which does not crack and does not fade, high adhesion, resistance to temperature changes make alkyd enamel indispensable in an aggressive environment.
The main disadvantage of this species is the pungent odor due to the toxic solvent. Painting should be carried out in a well-ventilated area or using protective equipment. Products of imported brands have a not so strong smell and are not toxic, but they cost much more.
It should be borne in mind that alkyd enamel does not allow moisture and air to pass through, so there should be good ventilation in the room. Also, before application, it is necessary to treat the surface with antifungal agents.
In addition to the usual form of release in jars, enamel is available in aerosols. This is a very convenient package that allows you to paint hard to reach places and surfaces of any complexity.
to contents ↑Oil
It has a short service life, in places of constant contact with water, the appearance of bubbles and cracks. It fades over time due to the oil base, especially in the sun. Requires frequent repainting. It has a sharp toxic smell, dries and weathered for a long time.
The only advantage of the oil coating can be called a low price. This is not the best material for the bathroom, but acceptable for budget repairs.
Direct water protection
For maximum safety of the walls in the bathroom, they can be additionally protected from water splashes. A good option would be a combination in the decoration of tiles and painting. Places with a high level of moisture - areas above the bathroom, near the shower and washbasin - are often protected with tiles.This method is practical, because the tile is more durable and better tolerates the effects of hot water. A combination with painted walls will create an unusual design.
If the tile does not suit you, you can protect tinted panels in another way. Installing shockproof glass on the walls will well protect them from water and will be almost invisible. An alternative to glass will be transparent polycarbonate panels.
Painting options
When choosing a design, color and method of painting, it is important to remember that glossy light shades that visually increase the area are suitable for a small space. A large room allows you to experiment: here you can apply dark tones, play well in contrasts, combine gloss and matte finish.
Decorative staining remains popular. To do this, apply drawings or their elements, a gradient, highlighting one zone with a bright color or pattern. Special stencils for painting are available today, they facilitate drawing and are easy to use. Textured rollers are also used, creating an original effect with a contrasting shade. In this case, it is important not to overdo it with the decor, especially in a small area.
If you adhere to conservative views, you can choose the always popular solid color. This is true for today's fashionable minimalism in interior design.
Painting a bathroom is a process that must be approached responsibly in order to get a good result. Adhering to the recommendations on the choice of materials and methods of application, even a beginner without special skills can cope with painting.
