Enamel Paint

An enamel paint is a paint that air dries to a hard, usually glossy, finish. In reality, most commercially available enamel paints are significantly softer than either vitreous enamel or synthetic resins. The term sometimes refers to oil-modified polyesters that were introduced in the early 1930s. The oil is required to stop or enhance the cross linking of the paint in order to achieve sufficient flexibility of the paint film. Oil-based enamel paints have a strong solvent odour, and all clean up is done with paint thinners or mineral spirits. Enamels may also be urethane or polyurethane, in either water or a solvent base. Enamel paints typically come in several sheens, from eggshell or low-lustre to satin, semi gloss and high-gloss. Specialized enamels, often faster-drying, are used for painting appliances and flooring. Some enamels are heat-resistant.

Enamel paint can be applied by brush, roller or by using spray equipment, depending on the type of paint and purpose. Follow the label directions or ask your Kings Paint representative for application methods and drying time, and remember that in almost all cases, several thin coats are better than one or two thick coats. When using any glossy paint, bear in mind that the higher the sheen, the more any surface imperfections will show, so proper preparation of the substrate is very important. Oil-based enamel paints dry from the inside out, so when they feel completely dry to the touch, they are fully cured. Enamel paint is used in the home on any surface that has to withstand high traffic, humidity or grubby hands. Trim, doors, bathroom, kitchens and floors are painted with enamel because they withstand more abuse, are moisture-resistant and can be washed repeatedly without damaging the surface.