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PAINT GLOSSARY
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.
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.).
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, wash ability, 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.
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.
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 100 degrees F (37.5 degrees C).
COMPLEMENTARY COLORS
Two colors directly opposite one another on the color wheel.
CONSISTENCY
The thickness 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.
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.
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.
DILUENTS
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.
EASE OF APPLICATION
Characteristics of a paint or caulk that facilitate its application, e.g., spatter resistance, lapping properties, and open time.
EGGSHELL
An interior paint that has a low luster, satin-like appearance. Its gloss level is between flat and semi gloss.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 100 degrees F (37.5 degrees C).
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.
GALVANIZED
A ferrous metal that is covered with zinc to protect it from rusting.
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 semi-gloss 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.
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.
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."
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.
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 PAINT
Water-based paint made with a synthetic binder (latex), such as acrylic, vinyl acrylic, or styrene acrylic latex.
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.
MARBLING
A decorative painting technique that imitates the color and figure of marble.
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.
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
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.
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.)
RE-COAT TIMER
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 Diluents.)
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.
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.
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.
SEMI GLOSS 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.
SYNTHETIC
Man-made, rather than occurring naturally.
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.
TRANSPARENT
Having the property of allowing light to permeate without diffusion or scattering; clear.
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.
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, UNDERCOATER
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.
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).
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. A top quality acrylic sealant will have volume solids of 70% - 80%.
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.
WATER 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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