DISTEMPERS AND VARNISHES
Distempers are the cheaper variety of paints in which chalk is used as base and water is used as a carrier. The emulsifying agent which is commonly used is glue or casein. Distempers are available in powder form or in the form of paste. They are to be mixed with hot water before use.
The surface to be distempered should be thoroughly rubbed and cleaned. The cracks, if any
should be filled by lime putty. The surface should be kept dry for about two months before applying
distemper. Thus a primary coat is applied and is allowed to dry. Distemper is usually applied in two
coats.
Properties of Distemper
1. They are generally light in colour.
2. The coatings are generally thick.
3. They give reflective coating.
4. They are less durable than oil paints but are cheaper.
VARNISHES:
Varnish is the solution of resins or resinous substances like amber, copal, shellac, gum resin etc. in
solvents like oil, turpentile, alcohol etc. Depending upon the solvents used varnishes are classified as,
oil varnishes, turpentile varnishes, spirit varnishes and water varnishes.
The desirable characteristics ofan ideal varnish are
1. It should give glossy surface.
2. Should be durable.
3. It should dry rapidly after application.
4. It should not develop cracks after drying.
It is commonly used on wooden surfaces.