Distemper paint: Features, types, pros, cons

Distemper paint, a type of paint that has been in use for centuries, is still a popular choice among homeowners due to its affordability and versatility. It is a great option for those on a tight budget or for those who want a soft, matte finish on their walls. In this article, we will explore what distemper paint is, its features, types, as well as its pros and cons to help you make an informed decision when choosing a paint for your home.

Table of Contents

See also: How to use spray paint?

What is distemper paint?

Distemper paint has been used since ancient Egyptian times up until the 19th century. This type of paint is not as commonly used due to the emergence of newer and more durable paints, such as oil and latex-based paints. However, Distemper paint is still a great option for low-budget projects. It is an affordable alternative to other paints like Emulsion and can last for up to four or five years. Additionally, it can be applied directly onto a plastered wall. Distemper paint is sold in powder form and is sometimes mistaken for whitewash.

What are the features of distemper paint?

Distemper paint has a soft, matte texture that gives interiors an elegant look.
It is breathable, which means it won’t trap moisture or vapour, resulting in less peeling and flaking.
Distemper paint contains less toxic VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds) compared to oil-based paints, making it an eco-friendly option.
Due to its high opacity and coverage, it can smoothen out minor imperfections on walls like indents, scratches and bumps.
Distemper paint is low maintenance and simple dusting is enough to keep walls clean, making it perfect for busy spaces like kitchens, hallways and drawing rooms.
It is versatile and can be used on various surfaces like bricks, concrete, wood and POP (Plaster of Paris).

What are the types of distemper paint?

Acrylic distemper paint

Acrylic distemper colours are highly recommended for homes. They are water-based and come in over 1000 shades. Acrylic distemper paint is durable, smooth and dries quickly, making it an excellent choice for home exteriors.

Synthetic distemper paint

Synthetic distemper paint is a water-based paint that can give your home interiors a classy look. With its thin and uniform matte film, it can enhance the elegance of your walls. This type of paint also has a long-lasting effect, as it becomes harder over time and adds durability to your walls. You can easily clean and wipe off any dirt using simple water.

UNO acrylic distemper paint

Looking for budget-friendly distemper paint options for your home interiors? Consider UNO acrylic distemper paint. It’s water-based, has a smooth matte finish and its colours stay bright over time. Plus, it’s relatively stain-resistant and easy to clean with water. So, UNO acrylic distemper paint can be great for your home interiors.

Pros of distemper paint

Economical compared to other paint variants.
Can be used to paint both interior and exterior walls.
Provides a pleasing matt and smooth finish
Has a life of four to five years without falling off easily.
Resistant to cracking up during exposure to sunlight.
No prior coating of primer is required.

Cons of distemper paint

The quality of the distemper is not at par with other paint variants.
Cannot be used without thinner, or it can lead to unnecessary coagulation.
Can chip off if an external force is used to scrape it
Wetness can lead to the wearing off of the paint easily.
Not waterproof and can wash off easily.
Not stain-resistant, and stains cannot be removed, leading to chipping off of the paint.
Fades away from the surface sooner than other paint variants.

FAQs

What is the difference between Distemper paint and Emulsion paint?

Distemper paint is a water-based paint with a soft, matte finish, which is used for low-budget projects. Emulsion paint, on the other hand, is a more durable and long-lasting option that provides a smooth and shiny finish.

Can I use Distemper paint for exterior walls?

Yes, distemper paint can be used for both interior and exterior walls. However, it's important to note that it may not be as durable as other paint variants and may require more frequent touch-ups.

Can I apply distemper paint directly on the wall without a primer?

Yes, distemper paint can be applied directly onto a plastered wall without a primer. However, it's recommended to use a primer for better adhesion and longer-lasting results.

How long does Distemper paint last?

Distemper paint can last up to four to five years without falling off easily. However, its life span may vary depending on factors such as exposure to sunlight, humidity and moisture.

Is Distemper paint eco-friendly?

Distemper paint contains fewer toxic VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds) than oil-based paints, making it an eco-friendlier option.

Got any questions or point of view on our article? We would love to hear from you. Write to our Editor-in-Chief Jhumur Ghosh at jhumur.ghosh1@housing.com

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Khushi Jha

Khushi Jha, a graduate in history and political science from the University of Delhi, doesn’t restrict herself to a single domain. Her passion for writing has led her to explore a wide spectrum of topics, ranging from fashion, health and lifestyle to technology, real estate and finance. She has written for platforms like TheVoiceOfWoman, Techsunk, Fitmist and Menskool, among others. When free, she enjoys reading books, including fiction, history and geopolitics.