What is enamel paint, and where to use it

In our series of decoding the various varieties of paints, we tell you more about enamel paint and its uses

By Kriti Saraswat-Satpathy 

Whether you live in a rented apartment or your own house, a paint job every few years becomes mandatory, not just for the walls but other surfaces as well. Did you know, you can’t use the same type of paint for all of them? Enamel paint is seldom used on interior walls but has other protective benefits for your home. Here, we help you discover more about this versatile paint and where you can use it. 

We also answer common queries about enamel paint such as:

• What is the difference between enamel paint and regular paint?
• Is enamel paint waterproof?
• Where to use enamel paint
• How many coats of enamel paint do you need?
• How long will enamel paint last?
• Is enamel paint costly?

What is the difference between enamel paint and regular paint?

One of the first questions that comes to mind is the basic difference between enamel paint and the paints we use on our walls. The prime difference is enamel is an oil-based paint that is thicker, tougher, and water-resistant. It does not wear off easily even when exposed to extreme weather elements, and in fact, is used on surfaces to protect them from harm. Once dried, enamel paint forms a glossy, protective covering on the surface it is used on and shields it from dirt, dust, rust, etc. Unlike some of the other types of paint, enamel paint has a longer shelf life and is best used on exterior walls and surfaces. 

Is enamel paint waterproof?

Yes, enamel paint is waterproof and can be cleaned to get rid of accumulated dirt. Wiping or washing it does not lower its glossiness or remove the protective film it forms on the surface. Another good thing about enamel paint is that it is also heat and moisture-resistant, making it ideal for certain sections and objects in the house. 

Where to use enamel paint

Enamel paint can be used on a variety of surfaces. Because of its hard, protective shield, it can be used on walls outside the house that bear the brunt of harsh weather like rain, sunlight, dust, and pollution. Enamel paint is also a great option for metal and steel objects such as window grilles, doors, railings, pipes, etc. The best thing about this paint is that it works on several materials, including wood, plastic, glass, stainless steel, and aluminium.  Enamel paint essentially elongates the lifespan of your walls, furniture, surfaces, and objects. When using for outdoor areas, keep the weather in mind as this paint air-dries. Summer is the best time to use enamel paint so that it dries quickly without getting washed off by rain. 

How many coats of enamel paint do you need?

Even though enamel paint forms a thick coating, you should apply two coats of it to any surface for best results. You need to allow the first coat of enamel paint to completely dry before applying the second one. 

How long will enamel paint last?

The tough exterior of enamel paint ensures that the product it coats is not damaged. However, everything has a shelf life. When used on surfaces that do not experience much wear and tear, the enamel paint coating can last as long as five to six years without a retouch. On the other hand, surfaces that are exposed to harsh environmental factors can lose their protective enamel coating in three to four years.

Is enamel paint costly?

Compared to some other types of wall paint, enamel paint is more expensive. This is because it has several protective ingredients that make it more durable.

It also doesn’t spread easily, so you need more enamel paint than some other types of paint for the same area size. But these days, there are several variants of interior paints, many of which are at a higher price point due to their sheen, finish, and texture. 

Depending on the brand you pick and the area to be painted, you can buy a small or large can of enamel paint. If you don’t have budget constraints, pick an enamel paint from a reputed brand that has credible results so that you don’t have to repaint every other year. 

An important thing to remember when using enamel paint is that it is strong and emits fumes that contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that can cause dizziness or nausea in some people. If you are sensitive to paint smell, wearing a mask and using enamel paint in a well-ventilated or open space is best. Or get a professional to do the needful and let it dry completely before you enter that space or use that object.