Choosing the right color for your building is a very responsible and difficult business. From the point of view of aesthetics, it is difficult to give any ready-made advice, as they say, “there is no friend for taste or color.” On the issues of technology and economics, you can give quite definite recommendations..
In the recent past, paints of several ready-made colors were made in the USSR. If a person wanted to get some other color scheme, then he had to mix these paints at his own peril and risk..
Now, with the advent of tinting systems, the situation has changed radically. On the Russian market there are a number of European and American tinting systems of various companies: Tikkurila, Relius, Huls, NCS, etc. All of them usually exist both in computer and manual versions, i.e. in the form of an album. There are also computer programs for the transition from one system to another..
Tinting systems
All these systems can be classified according to several criteria..
First, according to the material used. Coloring pastes are used in some systems (without a binder), in other systems – tinting paints (with a binder).
Secondly, by appointment. In construction, tinting systems are usually divided into facade and general purposes. There are also special systems, for example, for children’s rooms, for signal paints, etc., but this is already exotic.
General purpose systems typically include 1500-2200 colors. These include, in particular, the “NCS” widespread in Moscow. It should be noted that for these systems there are practically no restrictions for internal work, but there are restrictions for facade ones. These limitations are associated with insufficient lightfastness of some tinting pastes included in this system. These restrictions are usually indicated in a note, but, unfortunately, the client and the architects do not always read it..
It should also be noted that there is a very large variation in value for different colors. In some cases, this difference reaches 10 times, that is, there are expensive colors and cheap.
Those who have traveled to Europe have probably noticed the relatively narrow color range of the facades. These are usually variations of white, gray, yellow, brick red and brown. Basically, these are paints made on the basis of iron oxide pigments. They are optimal in price and good in operation, and rich Europeans know how to count money.
Much less questions and problems arise if you use a facade system for facade work. It can also be used for interior work, but here you have to put up with a smaller assortment of colors. In facade systems, they are usually 150-250.
Thirdly, by the method of tinting. This point is in most cases associated with the first, although not always.
Tinting systems based on pigment pastes have a higher versatility due to the fact that they are not tied to a specific binder. Among them there are systems that can be tinted, both water-based paints and paints on solvents..
Typically, this type of system is designed for the use of tinting machines, since a very precise dosage is required. A tinting machine is a very convenient thing, but expensive. The simplest dispenser costs $ 3000-5000, and if we are talking about a well-equipped automatic tinting workshop, then the cost of the equipment can reach $ 30,000-50,000. These upfront costs are a heavy burden on the cost of tinted paint..
Another negative point of these systems is the need to use several bases for tinting, usually 4-5, because when the color paste is introduced into ordinary white paint, it weakens, this is especially true when obtaining saturated colors.
The situation is simpler with tinting systems based on tinting paints..
You are looking at a color atlas, you don’t even have to buy it, you can just look at the seller and rewrite the recipe for the color you like.
In accordance with the choice, you buy tinting paint and white facade paint, and then at the construction site you mix it all according to the recipe. As they say: cheap and cheerful.
According to this principle, tinting systems of companies are made: Dufa, Joby and many other companies.
In the modern economic conditions of our country, this tinting method can be considered optimal, so do not rush to throw money away, they will still be useful to you..
Text: Shtreis B.G. “VGT Enterprise”
Can you please provide some guidance on how to effectively tint paint? I have a project in mind and would like to understand the process, including the most suitable products and techniques to achieve the desired color. Any tips or step-by-step instructions would be greatly appreciated. Thank you!
To effectively tint paint for your project, you will need to start with a base paint color and tint it to achieve your desired shade. To do this, you will need a tinting machine at a paint store, where they can add the necessary pigment to the paint. Make sure to take note of the color formula used for future reference.
For best results, it is recommended to use quality paint products and mix the tint thoroughly to ensure even color distribution. It is also a good idea to test the tinted paint on a small area before starting the project to ensure it matches your vision.
When applying the tinted paint, use smooth and even brush strokes or a paint sprayer for larger areas. Allow the paint to dry between coats as directed on the paint can. Remember to clean your tools promptly after use to prolong their lifespan.
Overall, the key to effectively tinting paint is to have a clear vision of the desired color, use quality products, and follow proper techniques to achieve the best results. Good luck with your project!