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A | B | C
| D | E | F
| G | H | I
| J | K | L
| M | N | O
| P | Q | R
| S | T | U
| V | W | X
| Y | Z
A
ACRYLIC: A type of synthetic polymer used as the binder for high-performance
water-based paints and caulks. Some acrylic polymers are used in
auto finishes, appliance coatings, etc.
ADHESION: The ability of a dry paint film or caulk to remain attached
to the surface. Adhesion is probably the single most important property
of a paint or caulk.
AEROSOL: A container (usually a hand-held size) of coating material
that is pressurized for spray (atomized) applications. Enamels and
varnishes are often sold in aerosol cans.
ALKALI: An alkaline, or "basic," chemical substance such
as lime or lye. Generally present in fresh cement, concrete, or
plaster.
ALKALI BURN: A condition that occurs when the alkalinity in fresh
masonry causes the breakdown of a paint's binder, resulting in color
loss and overall deterioration of the paint film. Most likely to
occur with vinyl-acrylic latex and oil-based paints applied to masonry
surfaces that are less than a year old.
ALKYD: A synthetic resin used in oil-based paints. An alkyd resin
is made by reacting a drying oil with a hard, synthetic material.
ALLIGATORING: A scaly pattern that appears on paint due to the
inability of the paint to bond to a glossy coating beneath it. It
can also be due to the application of a hard coating over a soft
primer, or (with oil-based paint) because the wood was recoated
before the undercoat was dry.
ALUMINUM PAINT: A paint, usually solvent-based, that contains aluminum
particles and provides a metallic appearance.
ANTI-CORROSIVE PAINT: A paint designed to minimize rust or corrosion
when applied directly to metal.
ANTI-FOULING PAINT: Specially formulated paint for surfaces such
as boat hulls and piers. It discourages attachment and growth of
marine plants and animals.
APPLIED HIDING: Refers not only to the opacity of the paint film,
but also to how it hides, depending on its thickness and how smoothly
it flows out. Must take into account how the paint is applied (brush,
roller, spray, etc.).
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B
BACKER ROD: An extruded foam rod that is typically placed in joints
that are deeper than 1/2" (12.5 mm) to fill in some of the
space before the sealant is applied. Foam backer rods come in a
variety of diameters, ranging from 1/8" (3 mm) to3/4/"
(20 mm)
BINDER: 1. A component of paint that "binds" the pigment
particles into a uniform, continuous paint film, and makes the paint
adhere to the surface. The nature and amount of binder helps determine
most of the paint's performance properties - washability, toughness,
adhesion, color retention, and durability. 2. In caulk, a component
that "binds" the pigment particles into a homogeneous
compound and makes the caulk adhere to the surface. The main performance
properties of caulk - durability, adhesion, and flexibility at low
temperatures - are determined by the binder.
BIOCIDE: A biologically active paint and caulk additive designed
to keep bacteria from spoiling the paint or caulk during storage;
or to keep mildew from growing on the applied paint.
BLEACHING: Loss of color, usually caused by exposure to sunlight.
BLEEDING: The migration of material from the substrate, causing
discoloration of the paint.
BLISTERING: The formation of dome-shaped, hollow projections of
paint.
BLOCK FILLER: A thick, paint-like material used to smooth out very
rough masonry surfaces like cinder block. It is generally brush-applied,
then painted.
BLOCK RESISTANCE: The capability of a coating to resist sticking
to itself when used on two surfaces that come into contact with
each other, e.g., door and jamb; window sash and sill.
BOXING: The mixing together of the different cans of like paint
to be used on a job, to ensure uniformity, especially of color.
BREATHE: To allow the passage of moisture vapor from the substrate
through the paint film.
BUILD (or FILM BUILD): The thickness that a paint tends to be applied
in, when using the normal application technique for that paint.
BURNISHING: The formation of shiny areas on a painted surface,
as a result of rubbing or washing.
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C
CALCIUM CARBONATE: A mined material (chalk) that is used as an
extender or filler for paint and caulk.
CAULK: A generic term for a compound used to fill cracks, gaps,
seams and joints.
CHALKING: Deterioration of the surface of an exterior paint upon
weathering into a faded, powdery substance. Chalking occurs when
the paint's binder is degraded by harsh environmental conditions.
Chalk should be removed prior to repainting.
CHECKING: Patterns of short, narrow breaks in the top layer of
paint. Checking occurs when the paint loses its elasticity.
CHEMICAL RESISTANCE: The ability of a coating to resist damage
by chemicals.
CHIME: The lip around the opening of a paint can into which the
lid is placed.
CLAY: A white, mined mineral used as an extender - mostly in interior
paints.
COALESCENT: An organic solvent used in latex paints that acts as
a temporary plasticizer, to aid in film formation. It helps the
binder form a continuous film when applied, particularly at the
low end of the application temperature range recommended for the
coating.
COATING: A paint, stain, varnish, lacquer, or other finish that
provides a protective and/or decorative layer over a substrate.
COLOR RETENTION: The ability of a paint to keep its original color
and resist fading. This term is generally applied to exterior paints.
COLOR WHEEL: A circular chart with wedge-shaped segments of different
specific colors. Used in color decorating.
COLORANT: A concentrated liquid or dry color that is added to a
paint to obtain a chosen color.
COLORFAST: The ability to maintain color and not fade excessively
under normal conditions.
COMBUSTIBLE: Refers to any liquid with a flash point at or above
100oF (37.50C).
COMPLEMENTARY COLORS: Two colors directly opposite one another
on the color wheel.
CONSISTENCY: The thickness or brushability of a paint.
CONTRASTING COLORS: Colors separated by at least three others on
the color wheel.
CORROSION INHIBITOR: Any material used to prevent the oxidation
(rusting) of metals. May be a paint undercoat, an additive, a pigment,
or a coating applied to the surface.
CORROSION-RESISTANT: Ability of a substance to resist deterioration
due to a chemical reaction with its environment. Coatings that do
this usually contain a corrosion inhibitor.
COVERAGE: The spread rate of a paint or coating, usually expressed
in sq. ft./gal. or m2/l. With pigmented coatings, it can refer to
applied hiding power.
CRACKING: The splitting of a dry paint or varnish film, usually
a result of aging or movement of the substrate. Different forms
are hair-line cracking, checking, crazing, grain cracking, or alligatoring.
CRYSTALLINE SILICA: See Silica.
CUSTOM COLOR: Special colors that are made by adding colorant to
paint or by intermixing paints of different colors. Permits the
preparation of a selected color paint at the point of sale.
CUTTING IN: The painting of a surface adjacent to another surface
that must not be painted. For example, painting the frame of a window
but not the glass.
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D
DEAD FLAT: Having no sheen or gloss.
DEGLOSSER: A liquid preparation used to remove the gloss of a painted
surface, to slightly roughen or give "tooth" to the substrate.
This lends improved adhesion to the coating being applied.
DEGREASER: Solvent or compounded material used for removing oils,
fats, or grease from a substrate.
DEW POINT: The temperature at which water vapor in the air begins
to condense.
DILUENT: A liquid that is included in a coating, or can be added
primarily to reduce its viscosity. A diluent is not necessarily
a solvent for the binder.
DRY DUST-FREE: Drying stage of a coating at which airborne dust
particles will not adhere to it.
DRY TACK-FREE: Drying stage of a coating at which it is not sticky
or tacky to the touch.
DRY TO RECOAT: Drying stage of a coating at which another coat
of paint can be applied without damaging the previous coat.
DRY TO SAND: Drying stage of a sandable coating at which it can
be sanded without the excess sticking to or clogging the sandpaper.
DRY TO TOUCH: Drying stage of a coating at which it has hardened
enough that it may be touched lightly without any of it adhering
to the finger.
DRYING TIME: The interval between the application of a coating
and when it is ready for service.
DRYWALL COMPOUND: A highly extended paste used to make a continuous
seam between pieces of drywall (Sheetrock); also used to repair
cracks, holes and other defects. It is sanded smooth before painting.
DURABILITY: The degree to which a coating or caulk can withstand
the destructive effects of the environment to which it is exposed.
The term also refers to interior applications, including the ability
to withstand scrubbing, abrasion, etc.
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E
EASE OF APPLICATION: Characteristics of a paint or caulk that facilitate
its application, e.g., spatter resistance, lapping properties, and
open time.
EFFLORESCENCE: Whitish powder (salt deposits) that sometimes appears
on masonry surfaces; it is carried to the surface by moisture.
EGGSHELL: An interior paint that has a low lustre, satin-like appearance.
Its gloss level is between flat and semigloss.
ELASTICITY: The ability of paint or caulk to expand and contract
with the substrate without suffering damage or changes in its appearance.
Expansion and contraction are usually caused by temperature and
humidity fluctuations.
EMULSION: A mixture (usually milky-white) in which one liquid is
dispersed (but not dissolved) in another. A latex paint or caulk
binder is often referred to as an emulsion, even though it is a
dispersion of solid polymer particles in a liquid (water). In Europe,
latex paints are often referred to as "emulsion paints."
ENAMEL: Technically, an enamel is a colored varnish, or high gloss
paint. Generally, the term is used for high quality, dirt-resistant
paints (generally for interior use) that may have a sheen level
from satin to glossy. These coatings are used for more demanding
applications as in kitchens, bathrooms, etc.
ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY (EPA): An agency of the federal
government that has the responsibility of protecting the environment.
EPOXY: A tough, water-resistant and chemical-resistant polymer
or coating, adhesive or patching material made with this type polymer;
usually made with two components blended at time of application.
For more information, see EPOXY in the FAQ section.
EXTENDER: A low-hiding, inexpensive pigment that fills out and
extends the high-hiding and colored pigments' capabilities, provides
bulk to the paint, and can positively or negatively have an impact
on many properties. Some common extenders are clay, calcium carbonate,
and silica.
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F
FADING: Lightening of the paint's color, usually caused by exposure
to light, heat or the weather.
FEATHERING: A process used to blend a small area into its surroundings
after spot-priming, applying a filler, or scraping off an area of
old paint.
FERROUS: A metal that contains iron; most ferrous metals are subject
to rusting.
FILM FORMATION: The formation of a continuous dry film by a binder,
either pigmented or not. In a latex paint this process is the result
of the water evaporating and the subsequent fusion of the binder
particles.
FLAKING: The detachment of pieces of paint from the substrate,
caused by a loss of adhesion and/or elasticity.
FLAMMABILITY: The ability of a substance to ignite, having a flash
point under 1000 F (37.50C).
FLASH: Uneven gloss or color resulting from an unsealed substrate
or excessively high or low temperatures during drying.
FLASH POINT: The lowest temperature at which the vapors of a liquid
can catch fire.
FLAT PAINT: A paint with little or no sheen. Used mostly on interior
walls and ceilings, and exterior wall areas.
FLEXIBILITY: Degree to which a coating or sealant, after drying,
is able to conform to the movement of its substrate without damage.
FLOW: The ability of a coating to even out upon application, so
that brush and roller marks are not visible.
FUNGICIDE: An ingredient used in some coatings and sealants to
help keep mildew and other fungi from growing on the surface.
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G
GALVANIZED: A ferrous metal that is covered with zinc to protect
it from rusting.
GLAZING: Glass, such as that used in doors and windows.
GLAZING COMPOUND: A caulk, sealant, or putty that is used to seal
a glass pane into its frame.
GLOSS: The shininess or reflectiveness of a coating. Flat paints
have no gloss; high gloss paints have very noticeable gloss.
GLOSS RETENTION: The ability of a coating to maintain its gloss
- pertains especially to semigloss and gloss exterior coatings.
GRAIN: The direction, size, arrangement or appearance of the fibers
in wood or veneer.
GRAIN CRACKING: Cracking of a coating, parallel to the grain of
the wood substance.
GRAIN RAISING: The swelling and standing up of short, broken fibers
of wood caused by absorption of a liquid. Water is particularly
inclined to cause this.
GYPSUM: Natural crystalline calcium sulfate used as an extender
pigment in paint, and in the manufacture of gypsum wallboard and
plaster of Paris.
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H
HARDBOARD: A generic term for a smooth or textured grainless panel
manufactured primarily from compressed wood fibers. Used as exterior
siding.
HARDNESS: The degree of pressure a material will withstand without
becoming deformed or scratched.
HARDWOOD: Trees that have broad leaves (in contrast to conifer
or softwoods). The term has no reference to the actual hardness
of the wood. Examples are: oak, maple, ash, beech, walnut, and hickory.
HIDING POWER: The ability of paint or stain to obscure the surface
over which it has been applied. Hiding power is provided by the
paint's pigment, and is affected by how thickly the paint tends
to apply, and how well brush marks flow out.
HUE: The basis of a color, e.g., whether it is a red or green.
Lighter or darker variations are still the same hue. Thus, a light
red and a deep red are of the same hue.
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I
INERT: Chemically inactive; resistant to corrosion.
INORGANIC: Matter other than that of animal or vegetable origin.
For example, minerals and simple salts are inorganic materials.
INSOLUBLE: The inability to be dissolved.
INTERCOAT: A layer of paint that is "sandwiched" between
two others. Also refers to something occurring between coats, as
in "intercoat adhesion."
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J
JOINT: The gap or space created when two building materials come
together, such as where two pieces of molding join or where the
bathtub and bathroom wall meet.
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K
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L
LACQUER: Coating based on synthetic thermoplastic film-forming
material that is dissolved in organic solvent. Dries by solvent
evaporation.
LAP: Area where a coat of paint or other coating extends over an
adjacent fresh coat. The painter's objective is to make this juncture
without visible lap marks.
LATEX: A milky-white, fine dispersion of a solid resin in an aqueous
medium. Also used to describe water-thinned paints, the principal
vehicle of which is latex.
LATEX PAINT: Water-based paint made with a synthetic binder (latex),
such as acrylic, vinyl acrylic, or styrene acrylic latex.
LEAD: A soft, malleable heavy metal. In the past, compounds of
lead were used as a white pigment, and were used in primers to prevent
tannin bleed-through.
LEVELING(or FLOW and LEVELING): The ability of a coating to form
a smooth film without brush marks.
LIGHT REFLECTANCE VALUE (LRV): The amount of light reflected from
a painted surface.
LINSEED OIL: Drying oil obtained from flaxseed. It is darker and
slower drying than most other drying oils. Once widely used in coatings,
it now has limited use in oil-based house paint and oil wood finishes.
LIQUID SANDER, LIQUID SANDPAPER: Liquid chemical used to degloss
a painted surface in order to improve adhesion of an applied coating.
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M
MARBLING: A decorative painting technique that imitates the color
and figure of marble.
MARING FINISHES: Paints and varnishes specifically formulated to
withstand saltwater immersion and exposure to marine atmosphere.
MASONRY: Mineral-based building material such as cement, mortar,
stone, brick, and stucco.
MILDEW: A black, gray or brown fungus that can grow on the surface
of a paint or caulk. It forms most often on areas that tend to be
damp and receive little or no sunlight.
MILDEW RESISTANCE: The ability of a paint or caulk to resist mildew
growth on its surface.
MILDEWCIDE: A chemical agent, often included in exterior paints
and caulks, that discourages mildew growth on the paint surface.
MILL SCALE: A term that refers to the combination of dirt, rust,
and general grime that forms on a ferrous metal surface.
MINERAL SPIRITS: A hydrocarbon solvent distilled from petroleum;
paint thinner may be mostly or all mineral spirits.
MOISTURE RESISTANCE: The ability of a coating to resist swelling,
blistering or other damage caused by moisture.
MSDS: Material Safety Data Sheet. An informational document provided
by the manufacturer regarding the safety and handling procedures
and precautions for materials used in the workplace.
MUD-CRACKING: A paint failure that looks like cracked mud. It occurs
when a coating is applied too thickly, such as with heavy application
in corners.
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N
NAIL HEAD RUSTING: The rusting of the exposed heads of iron nails.
It can show through and discolor the coating covering it. Can occur
if bright nails, rather than galvanized, are used outdoors.
NAP: The fibers on a paint roller cover.
NAPHTHA: A petroleum distillate solvent used mainly by professional
painters to thin oil-based coatings and to clean up.
NEUTRAL COLORS: White, off-white, light beige and gray - colors
that generally go well with all other colors.
NON-VOLATILE: The solid portion of a coating consisting of pigment
and binder; it is the portion of the coating left on the surface
after it is dry.
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O
OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH ADMINISTRATION (OSHA): An agency
of the federal government that sets workplace health and safety
standards for U.S. employees.
OIL-BASED PAINT: Paints made with a drying oil, such as linseed,
soya or tung oil, as the vehicle and binder, and mineral spirits
or paint thinner as the thinning agent. They generally dry very
hard, but take longer to dry than latex paints and require more
time to recoat.
OPACITY: The ability to keep light from passing through. A paint
with a high opacity will hide the substrate well.
OPAQUE STAIN : Exterior stain that obscures the natural color and
grain of wood, but still allows the texture to show through. Generally,
one coat is applied to bare wood.
ORGANIC: Refers to a substance derived from living matter; the
molecular structure contains carbon.
OXIDATION: A chemical reaction with oxygen. For example, the drying
of oils in oil-based paint, or the rusting of iron or steel.
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P
PAINT: An opaque coating generally made with a binder, liquids,
additives, and pigments. Applied in liquid form, it dries to form
a continuous film that protects and improves the appearance of the
substrate.
PEELING: The detachment of paint from the surface in ribbons or
sheets. Like flaking, it is the result of loss of adhesion and film
integrity. Peeling can be intercoat, or down to the substrate.
PENETRATING FINISH: A coating that is absorbed into the substrate,
rather than forming a film on its surface.
PERMEABLE: Capable of allowing something (such as water vapor)
to pass through without harm.
PETROLEUM DISTILLATE: Liquid hydrocarbon solvents (such as mineral
spirits) that are isolated or made from petroleum.
PIGMENT: A powdery substance that is one of the basic components
of a paint or caulk. It provides whiteness or color, hiding power,
and bulk.
POLYMER: A plastic-like material produced from chemical "monomers"
which in turn have been produced from alcohols and petrochemicals.
Certain polymers are used as latex paint and caulk binders. The
binder's polymer particles are small and carried in water. The binder
polymer particles and water mixture is known as an emulsion or as
"latex."
POLYURETHANE VARNISH: A clear coating that is based on a modified
alkyd resin.
POLYVINYL ACETATE: A binder most widely used in interior latex
wall paints.
PRESERVATIVE: A substance used to prevent the growth of microorganisms
in or on an organic base. An example is an ingredient in latex paint
used to prevent spoilage.
PRIMARY COLORS: Colors that cannot be produced by mixing any two
other colors. They are: red, yellow, and blue.
PRIMER: The first complete coat of paint applied in a painting
system. Many primers are designed to provide adequate adhesion between
the surface and subsequent topcoats. Most primers contain some pigment,
some lend uniformity to the topcoat, some inhibit corrosion of the
substrate, and some stop the discoloration of the topcoat.
PRIMER-SEALER: A priming system that minimizes or prevents the
penetration of the topcoat into the substrate.
PRINT RESISTANCE: The capability of a coating to not retain pressed-in
markings from an object placed on it.
PVA: Polyvinyl acetate. A binder used in water-based paints. Same
as vinyl acrylic.
PVC: Pigment Volume Concentration. The ratio of the volume of pigment
to the volume of total non-volatile material (i.e. pigment and binder)
present in a paint. The figure is usually expressed as a percentage.
Higher percentage figures (e.g., 40% - 75%) are associated with
flat paints; and lower figures (e.g., 10% - 25%) with gloss and
semigloss paints. (PVC has a second meaning: polyvinyl chloride,
the major component of vinyl plastic.)
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Q
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R
RE-COAT TIME: Interval required between the application of successive
coats of paint. This time period is usually listed on the label.
REDUCER: Material that lowers a paint's viscosity but is not necessarily
a solvent. (See Diluent.)
REFLECTANCE: The ratio of the light that radiates onto a surface
to the amount that is reflected back.
RELATED COLORS: Two colors that are next to each other on the color
wheel.
RESIN: A natural or synthetic material utilized as the binder for
a paint or caulk. Term used generally for oil-based or latex binders,
as "alkyd resin" or "acrylic resin."
RUST: The reddish, brittle oxide formed on iron or its alloys.
It is a result of exposure to air and humidity or chemicals.
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S
SAG: Narrow (or wide curtain-like) downward movement of a paint
or varnish film; may be caused by the application of too much coating,
the collection of excess quantities of paint at irregularities in
the surface (cracks, holes, etc.), or excessive material continuing
to flow after the surrounding surface has set. Also referred to
as runs or tears.
SAND FINISH: Rough finish plaster wall, or a paint that has been
texturized with sand.
SANDING SEALER: Especially hard first coat that can seal and fill,
but will not obscure, the grain of the wood. The surface is then
sanded before subsequent coats are applied.
SAPONIFICATION: A chemical decomposition of a paint's binder by
alkali and moisture from a substrate (e.g., new concrete or fresh
plaster). Saponified paint may deteriorate, lose its adhesion, and
become discolored.
SCRUBBABILITY: The ability of a coating to resist wearing away
or changing its original appearance when rubbed with a brush, sponge,
or cloth and an abrasive soap.
SEALANT: Often used as a synonym for "caulk." The word
"sealant" usually means a compound that has greater performance
than a caulk, i.e., it can accommodate movement in a joint or crack.
SEALER: A liquid coat that seals wood, plaster, etc., and prevents
the surface from absorbing paint or varnish. Sealers may be transparent,
and can act as primers. Some sealers are designed to be left uncoated.
SECONDARY COLORS: Colors formed by mixing together two primary
colors. They are: orange, green, and purple.
SELF-CLEANING: Certain exterior paints that are designed to chalk
relatively quickly to maintain a white, clean appearance.
SEMIGLOSS FINISH: A paint with a gloss level between high gloss
and eggshell/satin.
SEMI-TRANSPARENT STAIN: Stain that alters the natural color of
the wood, yet allows the grain and texture to show through. The
term is generally applied to exterior products, but technically
applies also to interior wiping stains used for trim, furniture
and floors.
SETTLING: The sinking of pigments or other solid matter in a paint
on standing in a container, with the subsequent accumulation on
the bottom of the container.
SHADE: A shade is created when black is added to a color. It is
a darker variant of a color.
SHEEN: A moderately low degree of gloss; gloss with poor distinctness-of-image
reflectance. Characteristic where a coating appears to be flat when
viewed near to the perpendicular, but appears to be glossy when
viewed from a low or grazing angle.
SHELLAC: Alcohol-soluble, clear to orange-colored resin derived
from lac. (Lac is a substance secreted by insects on tree branches,
mainly in India.) Used as a sealer and clear finish for floors,
for sealing knots, and in "alcohol-based" primers. Thinner
is denatured alcohol.
SILANE: A silicone-like substance that is added to caulks and sealants
to improve their adhesion to glass and aluminum under wet conditions.
SILICA: A pigment made from quartz sand that has been crushed or
ground. A reinforcing filler for paints; it imparts burnish resistance,
sheen uniformity and good flatting.
SILICONE: Compound used in the manufacture of binders that is characterized
by outstanding heat resistance, high water repellency, and chemical
resistance. A key ingredient in some caulks and sealants, and in
the formulation of many effective defoamers for latex paints.
SILICONIZED ACRYLIC SEALANT: Similar to an acrylic sealant, except
it has a small amount of silane (hence, its name) added to it, which
enhances adhesion to glass and aluminum under wet conditions.
SINGLE-COLOR SCHEME: Utilization of different values of a single
color in a decorating scheme. Also called monochromatic.
SIZE: A liquid composition that prevents excessive absorption of
paint or wallpaper adhesive into plaster, wallboard, or a similar
porous interior surface.
SKIN: The film that forms on the surface of a stored paint or caulk.
It is caused by exposure to air.
SOFTWOOD: The group of trees (fir, pine, spruce, hemlock) characterized
by its needles and being (for the most part) evergreen. The term
does not refer to the hardness of the wood.
SOLIDS: Non-volatile matter in the composition of a coating or
a caulk, i.e. the ingredients in a coating that, after drying, constitute
the dry film. Solids are composed mostly of pigment and binder.
SOLUBLE: The ability of a material to be dissolved in a liquid.
For example, sugar is soluble in water.
SOLVENT: A usually volatile liquid in which a paint's film-forming
particles are dissolved or dispersed.
SPACKLING COMPOUND: A powder mixed with water or a ready-mix compound
that is primarily used to fill large cracks in walls. It dries hard
and can be sanded and painted, but does not tolerate much movement
in the substrate.
SPAR VARNISH: Exterior varnish with good water resistance and the
capability to resist weathering. Named for its original use on the
spars of ships.
SPATTER: Droplets of paint that spin or mist off the roller as
paint is being applied.
SPONGE PAINTING (SPONGING): Interior painting technique in which
natural sea sponges are used to apply or partially remove a "glaze
coat" of paint.
SPOT-PRIME: To apply a primer to those areas where paint has been
removed or stripped to the original surface.
SPRAY: Method of application in which the paint is broken up into
a fine mist and directed to the surface under pressure. Specific
types of spray equipment are: aerosol, airless, and air assisted.
SPREAD RATE: The volume of a coating that can cover a given area.
The recommended spread rate is usually indicated on the paint can,
e.g., 450 sq. ft./gallon (11 m2/l). Spread rate depends on application
method and technique, porosity of the substrate, etc., as well as
on the nature of the particular coating.
STAIN: A partly transparent coating that can color wood without
obscuring the grain and/or the texture. Also refers to materials
that soil the surface of a coating.
STAIN BLEED-THROUGH: When tannin found in certain types of wood
(such as cedar or redwood) migrates through the coating, causing
discoloration. Also, discoloration from a contaminant on the substrate.
STAIN RESISTANCE: The ability of a coating to resist soiling.
STENCILING: A method of applying a design by brushing or sponging
paint through a cutout overlay placed on the surface.
STRIPPING: Removing old paint, varnish, etc., by using paint remover,
sandpaper, heat gun, or scraping tools. Also, the removal of wallpaper.
STYRENE-BUTADIENE: A synthetic latex similar to synthetic rubber.
Used in certain types of latex paint.
SUBSTRATE: Any surface to which a coating or sealant is applied.
SURFACTANT LEACHING: Also called water-spotting and weeping. It
is often a tan-colored, glossy residue that can form on the surface
when exterior latex paint is applied under conditions that are cool
and damp, that result in slow dry of the paint. May not readily
wash off, but generally will weather off within a month's time.
SYNTHETIC: Man-made, rather than occurring naturally.
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T
TACK CLOTH: A fabric impregnated with a tacky substance that is
used to remove dust from a surface after sanding or rubbing down,
and prior to further painting. It should be stored in an airtight
container to preserve its tackiness.
TACKY: The stage in the paint's drying process at which the film
is sticky when lightly touched.
TALC: Magnesium silicate; a white extender pigment used in paint.
The base for talcum powder.
THINNER: A liquid that, along with the binder, forms the paint's
vehicle. The thinner evaporates after the paint is applied. Water
is the thinner used in latex paint, while turpentine, mineral spirits
and denatured alcohol are thinners associated with different solvent-based
coatings; the liquid used to thin the coating.
TINT: A tint is created when white is added to a color. Also, to
add colorant to a liquid paint.
TITANIUM DIOXIDE (TiO2): An expensive, high opacity, bright white
pigment that is used as a prime pigment in paints, both latex- and
solvent-based.
TOLUENE, TOLUOL: An aromatic solvent used in the manufacture of
some paints and lacquers; also used as a "reducer," particularly
in lacquers.
TONE: A tone is created when gray is added to a color.
TOOTH: In a dry paint film, a fine texture imparted either by a
proportion of relatively coarse or abrasive pigment, or by the abrasives
used in sanding; this texture improves the burnish properties and
also provides a good base for the adhesion of a subsequent coat
of paint.
TOPCOAT: The coating intended to be the last coat applied in a
coating system. Usually applied over a primer, undercoater, or surfacer.
Finish coat.
TOUCH UP: Application of paint on small areas of painted surfaces
to repair misses, mars, scratches and places where the coating has
deteriorated, in order to restore the finish.
TOXIC: Harmful or poisonous to humana, animals and plants.
TRANSPARENT: Having the property of allowing light to permeate
without diffusion or scattering; clear.
TRIADIC COLOR SCHEME: A color scheme using three colors that are
equidistant on the color wheel.
TRISODIUM PHOSPHATE (TSP): A cleaning compound based on an alkaline
material. Because it contains phosphate, its use may be controlled
in certain geographical areas.
TUNG OIL: A fast-drying oil obtained from the nut of the tung tree;
also known as chinawood oil. Generally used in fine wood finishing
and in spar varnishes.
TURPENTINE: A colorless, volatile oil distilled from pine. Used
as a thinner and cleaning solvent in the past, it has since been
replaced by mineral spirits or white spirits.
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U
ULTRAVIOLET ABSORBER: A substance used in some exterior coating
that absorbs UV radiation, and reduces or delays damaging UV effects
from sunshine to the coating or substrate.
ULTRAVIOLET RADIATION (UV): The portion of the radiant energy of
the sun's spectrum that causes damage to coatings and sealants and
to the surface of unprotected wood.
ULTRAVIOLET RESISTANCE: The ability of a coating or sealant to
remain undamaged when subjected to UV radiation, as from direct
sunlight.
UNDERCOAT: A coating, generally pigmented, that provides improved
adhesion and/or maximized gloss and uniformity of a finish coat
when used on bare wood.
UNDERTONE: A subtle or subdued color of limited intensity that
lends character to the dominant color of a coating.
URETHANE: A type of binder used in coatings. Characterized by excellent
flexibility and chemical resistance. For more information, see URETHANE
in the FAQ section.
URETHANE-MODIFIED ALKYD: An alkyd that has been chemically modified
for improved flexibility and chemical resistance. A binder used
in "polyurethane" varnishes.
U.S. GALLON: A unit of volume equal to four liquid quarts, eight
liquid pints, 231 cubic inches, or 3.785 liters. A U.S. gallon of
water weighs 8.33 pounds (3.78 kg).
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V VALUE: The lightness or darkness of a
color, i.e. light blue, medium blue and dark blue have different
values.
VARNISH: A liquid composition that is converted to a transparent
solid film after being applied in a thin layer.
VARNISH STAIN : A varnish that has a transparent color added. It
usually has less penetrating power than a true stain.
VEGETABLE OIL : Oil obtained from the seeds or nuts of vegetable
growth. Some of these are "drying oils," such as linseed,
soya, tung and oiticica, which are used as binders for oil-based
paints and varnishes.
VEHICLE: The liquid portion of paint, in which the pigment is dispersed.
The vehicle is composed of thinner and binder.
VINYL: A clear, synthetic resin used in some water-based paints,
particularly interior flats, and some caulks.
VISCOSITY: The fluid thickness of a coating.
VOC: Volatile Organic Compound. Any carbon compound that evaporates
under standard test conditions. Essentially, all paint and caulk
solvents except water are classified as VOCs. Some government agencies
are limiting the amount of volatile organic compounds permitted
in paint because of concerns about environmental and health effects.
VOLATILE: Easily evaporated; the easily evaporated components of
any coating or caulk composition.
VOLUME SOLIDS : The volume of the solid components (pigment plus
binder) of a paint or caulk, divided by its total volume, expressed
as a percentage. High volume solids provide a thicker dry film,
resulting in improved hiding and high durability. A top quality
oil-based paint will typically have volume solids of 45% - 65%,
while quality latex paints are generally in the 35% - 45% range.
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W
WASHABILITY: Ease with which washing will remove dirt from the
surface of the paint without causing damage.
WATER BLASTER: Cleaning equipment that uses water under high pressure.
WATER REPELLENTS: Exterior clear finishes that are specially formulated
to cause water to bead up on the surface and minimize penetration
of water into the substrate.
WATER-BASED PAINT: Paint made with acrylic, vinyl or other latex
resin types, and thinned with water. It dries more quickly than
oil-based paint, has relatively low odor, some water vapor permeability,
and cleans up easily. The liquid component is predominantly water.
WATER-REDUCIBLE: Ability to be diluted with water or a water/cosolvent
mixture.
WEATHER ETCH: A method of improving the adhesion to a metal substrate
by allowing it to weather naturally before painting.
WEATHER RESISTANCE: The ability of a coating or caulk to withstand
the effects of wind, rain, sun and temperature fluctuation, and
retain its appearance and integrity.
WET ADHESION: The ability of dry paint or caulk to adhere to the
surface in spite of wet conditions. This is of particular importance
for exterior paints and caulks.
WET EDGE RETENTION: The length of time a newly applied coating
can stand, then be brushed or rolled again, without showing lap
marks.
WET FILM THICKNESS: Thickness of a liquid film immediately after
application, before it begins to dry.
WIPING STAIN: A stain applied to bare wood, and the excess is wiped
off before it dries. Mainly for interior use: trim, furniture, floors.
WIRE-BRUSHING: Cleaning a surface with a wire brush, or wire power
brush.
WOOD FILLER: Heavily pigmented product used to fill the grain of
wood before undercoats or finishes are applied. Used on open-grain
hardwoods such as oak, ash, walnut and chestnut. Used for furniture
and trim.
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X
XYLENE: A strong aromatic solvent sometimes used as a component
of paint remover and lacquer thinner. Also called XYLOL.
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Y
YELLOW IRON OXIDE: A generally durable earthtone yellow pigment
that may be natural (mined) or synthetic.
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Z
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