When people think about painting their home, they often get confused by the terms on the paint cans. Two names you’ll hear everywhere are acrylic and emulsion. Both are common in Kerala homes, and both come in many finishes. But they’re not the same, and understanding the difference helps you choose a paint that lasts longer and suits the climate here.
Let’s walk through it in a simple way so you can clearly see what each type offers.
What Exactly Is Acrylic Paint?
Acrylic paint is made using a pure acrylic polymer. Because of this, the paint has a stretchy, flexible nature, which is why artists love using it on canvas. That same flexibility makes acrylic a great option for walls too, especially where the surface tends to expand, contract, or deal with moisture.
Acrylic paint feels thicker, gives a strong coat, and comes in both matte and glossy finishes. It works on canvas, wood, metal, and walls. Short, it is durable and intractable to heat, wetness, and sunlight.
Brands like Brooke Paint use acrylic technology in many of their premium wall paints because it helps the surface stay smooth and bright for years.
So Then, What Is Emulsion Paint?
Emulsion paint is simply a water-based wall paint. The pigments in it are mixed using an emulsion, and the emulsion can be made from different binders. Some emulsions use vinyl, and some use acrylic. That’s why you’ll see different types of emulsions on the market.
Two Common Types of Emulsion Paint
- Vinyl or Plastic Emulsion
- This is the budget-friendly option.
- Good for normal walls
- Provides appealing coverage.
- Wash gently.
- Perfect for bedrooms or living rooms.
- Acrylic Emulsion
- This is the stronger version because it uses more acrylic polymer.
- More durable
- Withstands scrubbing
- Handles moisture better
- Gives a smoother finish
- For this reason, acrylic emulsions are preferred for kitchens, bathrooms, and exteriors.
Acrylic and Emulsion: How Are They Connected?
- Here’s the simple truth:
- Acrylic is one of the materials used to make emulsions stronger.
- So they’re not two unrelated things.
- A basic emulsion with vinyl = affordable, regular-use paint
- An emulsion with more acrylic = premium, long-lasting paint
Think of acrylic as a performance booster inside the paint. It enhances the paint’s resistance to dirt, water, and normal wear-and-tear. This is likewise the reason why acrylic-based emulsions have a longer lifespan in Kerala’s humid climate.
Main Differences Between Acrylic and Emulsion Paints
- What They’re Made Of
Acrylic paint: Pure acrylic polymer
Vinyl emulsion: Vinyl-based binder
Acrylic emulsion: Mix, but with high acrylic content
Both are water-based, so cleaning is easy.
- Durability
Acrylic paint and acrylic emulsions perform much better than basic emulsions. They don’t peel easily, handle moisture well, and stay bright longer.
- Usage Areas
Acrylic emulsion paint:
Paints that are applied on surfaces like kitchens, bathrooms, passages, outside walls, etc., in perceptive to durability.
Vinyl Emulsion:
Low-traffic areas like bedrooms or guest rooms.
- Washability
Acrylic emulsions are scrub-friendly. Vinyl emulsions are washable but don’t handle heavy scrubbing.
- Finish Options
Acrylic emulsions give you choices—silk, eggshell, smooth matte, or high sheen.
Vinyl emulsions are more limited.
Which One Should You Choose for Your Home?
If you want your walls to stay fresh and clean for a long time, especially in places where heat and humidity are common, go for acrylic emulsions. They’re more reliable and hold up well in Kerala’s weather.
Vinyl emulsions work well for simple interior walls if you’re looking for something economical.
For people who want a smoother finish and long-term colour protection, brands like Brooke Paint are popular because they focus on quality acrylic emulsions designed for Kerala homes. This is why many people consider them among the best paint companies in Kerala and one of the dependable choices for long-lasting colours.
FAQs
- What is the difference between acrylic and emulsion paints?
Acrylic paint uses pure acrylic polymer and is stronger and more flexible. Emulsion paint is water-based and may use vinyl or acrylic binders. Acrylic emulsions are more durable than standard vinyl emulsions.
- Which paint is best for home use?
In the case of the present-day residences, the acrylic emulsion provides the minimum long-term results. It is also the least emulsified in terms of handling moisture, stains, and cleaning.
- Are there any disadvantages to acrylic paint?
The single negative aspect is the price. In contrast, acrylics cover a vast spectrum of prices that depend on the quality and sturdiness of the product. However, their durability still makes them quite a good investment for the future.
- Is acrylic emulsion washable?
Yes. Acrylic emulsions are fully washable and can even withstand scrubbing. That makes them ideal for kitchens, balconies, and kid-friendly rooms.
- Which paint brand is reliable in Kerala?
Kerala comprises a plethora of local and national brands, but still, generally, the consumers go for the paints that keep their brightness no matter what the climatic condition is. High quality acrylic emulsions from companies like Brooke Paint are widely trusted and considered among the best paints in Kerala, and a strong option when choosing the No.1 paint company in Kerala for durability and finish.