Decorative paints are designed for application with a roller or brush. They typically contain 10 to 20% filler, up to 25% pigment, 25 to 35% binder, and 45 to 60% solvent, mostly water. These paints have a high viscosity to adhere firmly to the substrate and not run. They offer good UV resistance, abrasion resistance, and ease of maintenance, making them perfect for decorative use on walls, ceilings, and woodwork.
As for the lacquers used for finishing wooden furniture, they have a similar composition to decorative paints, but the proportions of the components are different. Lacquers are much more fluid and require little or no dilution. They offer a perfectly smooth and silky professional finish with a slightly plasticized appearance. The binders or resins used are typically acrylic, polyurethane, or polycarbonate urethane-based. Lacquers also differ in quality depending on the resin and pigments used. Acrylic lacquers offer good abrasion and household product resistance, but they are generally lacking in UV protection. It is best to opt for a polyurethane-based lacquer for maximum hardness and durability. In both cases, whether for paint or lacquer, a 1.8 to 2.0 mm nozzle and needle are necessary for spray application.