Industry
Fact-checked

At AboutMechanics, we're committed to delivering accurate, trustworthy information. Our expert-authored content is rigorously fact-checked and sourced from credible authorities. Discover how we uphold the highest standards in providing you with reliable knowledge.

Learn more...

What is Mineral Paint?

Vasanth S.
Vasanth S.

Mineral paint is a type of paint that consists of waterglass and mineral pigments. It forms a bond with a surface, creating a water resistant, yet vapor-permeable barrier. Mineral paint provides a protective coating against pollution, acid rain, and mold. It is considered environmentally friendly since it contains natural ingredients and a very low to zero amount of volatile organic carbons (VOCs). It is manufactured in two forms: interior and exterior mineral paint.

Typically, mineral paint is composed of soluble glass, such as sodium silicate or potassium silicate. These chemicals are colorless, transparent, and glasslike. These qualities have lead them to be commonly referred to as waterglass.

Mineral paint seals out water but still breathes, making it ideal for projecting against mold growth.
Mineral paint seals out water but still breathes, making it ideal for projecting against mold growth.

The mineral pigments which make up mineral paint are inorganic compounds. These are natural occurring compounds that are resistant to alkaline substances. The mineral pigments don't contain organic compounds that are commonly found in traditional paints.

When a surface is treated with mineral paint, the underlying crevices also contact the paint. The paint seeps into the material and reacts chemically with it. As a result, a covalent bond between the surface and the paint develops. The bond is very strong and is almost like a seal. This allows the surface to be impermeable to water but breathable at the same time.

Mineral paint is a safer alternative to lead-based paint, which could cause behavior problems in children.
Mineral paint is a safer alternative to lead-based paint, which could cause behavior problems in children.

The coating typically protects the surface from damage, while maintaining paint integrity. The paint color doesn't fade since it is resistant to UV light. The paint also doesn't flake, chip, or peel when it comes into contact with pollution or rain. The surface is protected from damaging water, algae, and carbonation.

Interior mineral paint is available in a variety of colors. It has a photo-catalytic agent that gives the paint a self-cleaning property, and it remains bright and colorful for many years. There are several types of stains and glazes that are available as well. Most of the interior paints are applicable for a variety of surfaces, including masonry, cement, stone, and plaster. Plasters require a pure mineral lime cement coating.

Home paints sold after 1978 are required to be free of lead.
Home paints sold after 1978 are required to be free of lead.

The exterior mineral paint is designed to protect the surface from the weather. It can be used to repair, restore, and protect concrete, stone, and masonry. The entire exterior of a house can be restored with this type of paint. It will protect the house from wet conditions and salt damage. Most of the exterior paints also provide unique protection against graffiti or other defacing sprays, as well as soil or rain stains.

Discussion Comments

lonelygod

Can anyone give me some interior painting tips for when I start working with mineral paint?

I have been looking up some tutorials about how to paint interior walls and the whole process looks pretty simple so far. I am just curious if there is anything special I need to worry about when using interior wall paint that is mineral based.

The colors I have chosen are shades of grey, and I love that they have an almost metallic hue to them. I think it going to make my home look ultra modern once I get everything researched. I want to make sure I do a great job of painting my home.

popcorn

@letshearit - If you are using KEIM paints you should be able to paint over any remaining paint pigments that are left on your brick. I know that KEIM mineral paint works on covering other mineral paint just fine. The problem rests if you have used a different paint previously on your brick. You may need to prepare the surface before a new paint color goes up. This isn't a tough process really, it is just a matter of giving your bricks a good scrub with a power washer and letting it dry.

I would also ask at the paint store if you need a primer. I know you don't normally need primer when working with previously painted bricks, but you should make sure if it is the same with mineral paint.

letshearit

Our bricks are looking a bit old on the outside of our home and I was wondering if anyone had any exterior house painting tips?

I have been looking at several paint colors and have decided to go with a natural look through KEIM mineral paints. I like how natural their products are and they have a great range of colors.

Our exterior bricks are already painted, so we're not sure of whether or not we should sandblast the house before painting, or just paint right over the remaining color. We want to get a clean a look as possible so we don't have to keep doing the same thing too often.

Post your comments
Login:
Forgot password?
Register:
    • Mineral paint seals out water but still breathes, making it ideal for projecting against mold growth.
      By: branex
      Mineral paint seals out water but still breathes, making it ideal for projecting against mold growth.
    • Mineral paint is a safer alternative to lead-based paint, which could cause behavior problems in children.
      By: Photographee.eu
      Mineral paint is a safer alternative to lead-based paint, which could cause behavior problems in children.
    • Home paints sold after 1978 are required to be free of lead.
      By: Rob
      Home paints sold after 1978 are required to be free of lead.