Two paints often catch our eye - Distemper and Emulsion. Which one's best?

Every homeowner faces the dilemma of selecting the right paint for their space. While there are myriad options available, two contenders stand out in the race – distemper paint and emulsion. But which one takes the lead? In the colourful world of home decor, understanding each paint type can save you not just money but also potential heartache. Read on to understand more about these paints and decide which one is the hero for your home.

What's the Colour Story? Understanding Distemper and Emulsion

Distemper Paint

Distemper paint has been gracing our walls for decades. Comprising primarily of chalk, water, and pigments, it's a water-based paint. Affordable and easy to apply, distemper has been the first choice for many homeowners on a budget.

Emulsion Paint

Stepping into the world of paints, you'll soon encounter the emulsion. It's a water-based paint too, but with a touch of acrylic or plastic. It offers a smoother, more refined finish and is versatile enough to qualify as a texture paint, opening doors to creativity on your walls.

Points of Difference: Distemper vs. Emulsion

❐Durability and Longevity

Distemper: A significant downside of distemper paint is its limited lifespan. It tends to flake over time, especially in areas with high humidity.

Emulsion: Emulsion, on the other hand, boasts of higher durability. It withstands wear and tear better, making it perfect for homes bustling with activity.

❐Finish and Aesthetics

Distemper: Distemper often gives a matte finish. Though decent, it lacks the richness and depth many modern homeowners seek.

Emulsion: Emulsion paint offers a wider range of finishes – from matte to glossy. Its potential as a texture paint also means homeowners can experiment with artistic finishes.

❐Washability

Distemper: Given its composition, distemper struggles with washability. Stains can be stubborn, and rigorous cleaning might even lead to paint chipping.

Emulsion: Emulsion wins here too. It is resistant to minor stains, and with a gentle wipe, the walls look as good as new.

❐Cost Factor

Distemper: Distemper paint's primary appeal is its affordability. It's easier on the pocket, making it popular among many.

Emulsion: Emulsion paint tends to be pricier than distemper. However, its durability and finish might offer more value in the long run.

❐Application and Drying

Distemper: It's easier to apply, but drying takes longer, which can delay the decor process.

Emulsion: With a quicker drying time, emulsion allows homeowners to wrap up their renovation tasks more efficiently.

❐Colour Range and Vibrancy

Distemper: Historically, distemper paint came in a limited colour palette. The vibrancy and richness of colour may also fade over time, particularly when exposed to sunlight. 

Emulsion: Emulsion paints typically boast a wider colour palette. Due to its formulation, colours tend to be more vibrant and maintain their hue for a longer time, even with exposure to sunlight.

❐Resistance to Environmental Factors

Distemper: This type of paint is less resistant to environmental factors. Smog, dust, and pollutants can cause it to degrade or discolour faster. 

Emulsion: Being more durable, emulsion paints can resist smog, dust, and other pollutants better, ensuring the wall's appearance is retained for a longer period.

❐Health and Safety

Distemper: Some distempers can emit a stronger odour during and post-application, which might be bothersome for some individuals. 

Emulsion: The newer versions of emulsion paints are formulated with minimal Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs), ensuring a healthier indoor environment and reducing any overpowering odours.

❐Adherence and Coverage

Distemper: One of the quirks of Distemper is its inconsistent grip, especially if the surface hasn't been aptly prepped. This could lead to uneven paint application.

Emulsion: When it comes to sticking seamlessly to diverse surfaces, emulsion paints take the lead. They deliver a consistent finish, adeptly masking small wall blemishes.

Emulsion or Distemper: What's Best for Your Home?

Given the climate conditions and urban hustle of Pakistan, which paint should homeowners lean towards?

For those seeking a short-term, budget-friendly solution, distemper paint might be your pick. It does the job, especially if you're not expecting high traffic or rough usage of the walls.

However, if you're looking at longevity, aesthetics, and minimal maintenance, emulsion emerges as the clear winner. Its ability to double as a texture paint further enhances its appeal, granting homeowners the liberty to play with wall finishes.

While distemper paint has had its glorious days, the modern-day demands and desires make emulsion a more compelling choice. Whether it's the promise of durability or the allure of a texture paint finish, emulsion seems to resonate better with the contemporary Pakistani homeowner. The key lies in understanding your needs, budget, and vision for your space. After all, every wall has a story waiting to be painted!