Natural linseed oil paint for mineral surfaces
Introduction
Linseed oil paint is primarily used for painting wooden surfaces, but it can also be used for painting mineral surfaces (lime or cement plaster, stone or brick surfaces, concrete surfaces) both indoors and outdoors. For this purpose, it is necessary to prepare a linseed oil paint emulsion, which consists of linseed oil paint and water. The linseed oil paint emulsion provides long-lasting protection for the surface and is easy to maintain – it is easy to clean and wash, repels water, and is therefore especially suitable for kitchens, bathrooms, entryways, and other rooms subject to intensive use. It is also moisture-permeable, forming a flexible coating, which means it will not peel or crack. In this article, we will look at how to properly prepare the surface for painting and how to prepare a linseed oil paint emulsion.
Surface Preparation
Before painting, make sure the surface is clean and dry. If the surface has previously been painted with lime or silicate paint, it is not necessary to remove the old paint. Clean off dust, dirt, and other particles that may interfere with the application of the paint. If necessary, wash the surface with warm water to which liquid linseed oil soap or regular household soap has been added. Do not use cleaning agents with a high pH content. Make sure the surface is completely dry before applying the paint.
If the surface is freshly plastered, allow it to dry completely and finish the carbonation process before painting, which can take up to 30 days.
Preparation of Linseed Oil Paint Emulsion
To prepare the linseed oil paint emulsion, you will need a battery-powered or electric screwdriver – a drill with a mixer, as well as a container with a small diameter.
To prepare the linseed oil paint emulsion, it is necessary to mix linseed oil paint with 30% water. For example, for 1 liter of linseed oil paint, about 350 ml of water should be added. Pour both ingredients into a container with a small diameter and mix thoroughly with a mixer until a uniform, yogurt-like consistency is achieved. If the emulsion becomes too thin, add a little more paint.
For exterior work, we recommend also adding a natural mineral additive zinc oxide (ZnO), which is available in our store. Add ZnO to the paint in the range of about 10-20% (20% for light shades, 10% for dark shades) to provide additional protection against UV radiation.
If water droplets appear on the surface during painting, it means that the linseed oil paint emulsion is not fully mixed. In this case, add a little more paint to the emulsion and continue mixing.
The linseed oil paint emulsion can be applied with a roller, brush, or sprayer. The linseed oil paint emulsion should be applied in a single coat. If the result after the first coat is not even, a second coat should be applied. The drying time of the paint is on average 24 hours at a temperature of +20 ̊C. After the second coat, the drying time may be longer. Before the next painting session, always make sure that the paint is completely dry.
If you are not sure about the compatibility of the materials, for example, if the plaster has previously been painted with a non-mineral paint, first apply the linseed oil emulsion to a small area to check the result.
Conclusion
The linseed oil paint emulsion is an environmentally and health-friendly, sustainable solution that contains 100% natural ingredients. It is suitable for painting both outdoors (facades) and indoors (walls, ceilings). Painting indoors can be done without ventilation, as the paint does not contain toxic or harmful compounds. It smells of linseed oil, ensuring a pleasant painting experience.