There are basically two kinds of paint in the paint industry, solvent-based and water-based. Water based paints are commonly refer to as emulsion and solvent based paints as enamel in the industry. 95% of Dulux products for consumers are water based. Paints contain Volatile Organic Compounds or VOCs. These chemicals present in certain products and are emitted as gases when these products are used. VOCs are released into the environment, where they can cause air pollution. All Dulux Interior Paints are environmentally friendly with low in VOC and low on Odour. We are proud to be the first to deliver this proposition in Singapore because we understand that both low VOC and low Odour should be a given basic need for our consumers. This allows them freedom to consider other paint properties requirements and selection of colours to deliver their emotional needs. We are committed to deliver the best possible paint technology and quality and are committed to assuring that the basic environmental and safety needs are not compromised in the process of delivering our product.

There are different types of interior emulsions paint available in the market addressing the different needs of consumer.

For walls & ceilings (masonry surfaces), water based paints called Emulsions are recommended. You can choose the type of paint depending on the final finish (matt, soft sheen or low-sheen) and other functional benefits (washability, anti-bacterial or anti-mould) desired. Find out more

For metal surfaces, solvent based paints called enamels (usually referred to as gloss) are recommended. Within enamels, there are choice of paints with varying sheen level & functional benefits. Find out more

For wood surfaces, you have a choice of 'transparent' finish and 'opaque finish'. The former is recommended, if you are keen on retaining the natural look of wood. Find out more

Decorative paints and related products are inherently beneficial to the environment, by preserving and protecting surfaces such as wood, and enhancing the aesthetics and enjoyment of living and working environments. However, these products contain chemicals and so we need to be aware of and manage the associated environmental risks.

Today the biggest environmental issue facing the paint industry is that of Volatile Organic Compound (VOC) emissions and their contribution to air pollution, or more simply, the effect of solvents contained in paints on the air that we breathe.

Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) are chemicals that will evaporate easily into the air usually at room temperature and often give a distinctive smell. They are emitted from many sources including fuels, numerous industrial operations and household products such as cleaning agents, cosmetics, aerosols and paints. They can accelerate the rate nitrogen oxides (from combustion processes) react with sunlight to create low level ozone and photochemical smog, which contributes to air pollution. Volatile organic compound (VOC) means any organic compound having initial boiling point less than or equal to 250c measured at a standard pressure of 101,3kps.(not sure you want to mention this as this is only based on ISO test method). These methods or standard may change with time as well. Best not to put in.

The products in the market are currently odour-less but do not mean that it is no odour. This is due to the natural odour of raw materials in the paint formulation.

Dulux is the first paint brand in Singapore market to offer a complete low odour painting experience by offering low odour across its entire interior emulsions range.

You will not be disappointed with unable to find your ideal colours anymore. To offer a far wider choice of pre-mixed colours available in stores, we developed an advanced computerized tinting system. This can create over 2000 colours- allowing you to get the colours of your choice.

Apparent colour variations between the paint chips on colour cards and paint on the wall are usually caused by the reflection of another light source. For example, a nearby garden can affect a pale yellow or cream. The colour can also be affected by a reflection coming from floor coverings or curtains. The pigment used in printed colour chips and paints are of different types and this will cause a difference in colour between them.

Colours painted on wall are on a larger surface compared to the paint chips on colour cards, this will cause a difference in visual perception of colours.

Please refer to item 2.3 below.

Paint chart are ink deposit and can only produced up to 90% accuracy of colours. Paint chart are shown in small pieces and on white background, however when a full room painted with the colour, you are surrounded by the colour and hence visually will look different. Actual colours in the room are also affected by lighting conditions and furniture & lighting.

After all the trouble you went to of deciding exactly the Dulux colour you want, why risk not getting it by mixing your Dulux colour in another brand of paint? Only Dulux paint is formulated to deliver genuine Dulux colour, both interior and exterior. So insist that your Dulux colour is mixed with Dulux paint. If it's not Dulux paint, it's not Dulux colour.

Different paints have different finish due to the difference in paint properties and key attributes. Consumer can choose the finish of the paint based on individual preference. There are different types of interior emulsions paint available in the market addressing the different needs of consumer. The most popular paints in Dulux series are Dulux All and Dulux Wash & Wear. Find out more

Yes, our Dulux Weathershield Keep Cool, is the leading exterior paint that comes with new cool energy saving solution and is environmental friendly. The Key Benefits of Dulux Weathershield Keep Cool are:

1. Gives you Savings of up to 15%* pa on the energy used to cool your home. *(for a typical 2–storey bungalow as reference the Building System & Diagnostics report).
2. Gives you cost savings of up to S$1000** pa.
   **(for a typical 2-storey bungalow, based on 2009 SG tariff rates)
3. Reduces exterior surface temperature by up to 5°C.
4. Provides cooling solution even for darker colours

Apart from the above, you still continue to enjoy the regular benefits of Dulux Weathershield exterior emulsion which are:

1. Longer Lasting Colours: It comes equipped with a unique Colour Lock technology which helps to keep colour lasting for a longer period of time.
2. Superior Wall Protection: Comes with a 5 years warranty against fungus, algae and film deterioration from UV rays. It provides superb durability and water resistant surface for longer-lasting beautiful exterior walls.
3. Green Label certified: It meets the eco standards specified by SGLS (Singapore Green Labeling Scheme) and is an approved, environmentally-friendly, Low VOC paint. Its Low VOC limits also means that it meets the BCA Green Mark Criteria.

Find out more

All Weathershield products contain higher level of biocides to protect them against the weather. Due to this we do not recommend them for use inside.

Oil based sealer tends to penetrate the wall better due to its solvent nature. Because of the deeper penetration into the substrate, it will provide better alkaline resistance and water resistance compared to water based sealer. However, if the substrates are very unstable, it may also result in peeling after application. This peeling will then need to be scraped off and sealer re-applied to make good.

For normal new interior surfaces, we can use water based sealer. For powdery surface, we use oil base sealer. For water seepage problem, we use Epoxy wall sealer after rectification of water seepage root cause.

Having removed wallpaper by scraping, the surface must be thoroughly washed down to remove all old paste and adhesives. Ensure wall is free from all adhesive and debris from the old wall papers. Fill all holes with suitable putty before painting. Allow wall to dry thoroughly before painting commence. Apply 1 coat of Dulux Weathershield Alkali Resisting Primer Sealer followed by any Dulux emulsion.

For exteriors the good time to paint is when the weather is pleasant, without risk of high humidity and rain on the horizon. It is best to avoid painting, in extreme temperatures & humid conditions.

For interiors, although there are no such restrictions – an ambient temperature in–home and outside is preferable. It is important to have adequate ventilation during and immediately after painting in order to dissipate fumes and it also helps with drying. It is best not to paint with humidity level above 85%.

Surfaces where the colour has faded due to exposure to ultra violet sunlight should be high pressure water jet washed to remove all dirt, grease and surface contaminants. Allow wall to dry thoroughly before painting commence. Apply 1 coat of Dulux Weathershield Alkali Resisting Primer Sealer followed by 2 coats of DUlux Weathershield Keep Cool.

Weathered woodwork previously coated with a woodstain or varnish should be thoroughly prepared to remove all grey denatured timber prior to redecoration. Surfaces must be thoroughly rub down with a suitable abrasive paper and dust off. Ensure surface are clean and free from dust and dirt before painting commence.

If walls are damp, the source of the dampness needs to be found, e.g. broken rainwater pipes or defective pointing in brickwork. Walls must be dry before attempting any decoration. Water stains can be sealed with Dulux Weathershield Alkali Resisting Primer

Painting a room in the correct order will save time and cost. Begin with the ceilings (1), walls (1 & 2 ) (1 & 2 usually being water-based paints only), doors & windows (3). (good to incorporate the drawing in our CIB on sequence of painting)

Follow the instructions given by the at the back of the can. For water based paint application on walls & ceilings: Brush are usually used for corners, hard to reach areas and complex surfaces, short nap rollers are used for main surfaces.

For solvent based paints being applied on metal & wood surfaces, brush are usually used for complex surfaces like metal gates, solvent type roller are used for large areas like doors.

Using the wrong type of roller can cause foaming of a paint film. Sponge or foam rollers should be avoided with water-based paints. Long pile rollers must be wetted out properly and is suitable for texture surfaces or exterior walls only. Foaming happens when air gets into the wet paint film to create air bubbles. When these bubbles burst craters are left on the film surface. Sometimes these craters dry to give an even film. Paints should not be applied on hot surfaces to avoid air bubbles being trapped in the paint film due to accelerated drying of paint.

Putting it right

You will need to rub down using abrasive paper. Ensure surface is clean from dust from sanding before painting commence.

Shrivelling & wrinkling of new paintwork occurs when the surface of the paint dries too quickly, therefore forming a skin before the paint underneath could dry. It is likely to be worse if a thick coat of paint is applied, especially to horizontal surfaces. It can also occur if a second coat is applied before the first one has dried.

Putting it right

Allow the paint to dry and harden. This may take several days, or weeks, depending on the drying conditions. When dry, rub the surface down using abrasive paper, and clean with warm water with a little detergent added. Rinse the surface with clean water and allow drying before repainting.

A new coat of paint can sometimes soften the previous coat and cause wrinkling or 'lifting'. This can be the result of using a different type of new coating over the existing paint, or by applying a second coat before the first coat is fully dried. To solve the problem

1. If paint is still soft, scrape off, wash with white spirit and recoat to correct film thickness.
2. Allow to thoroughly dry (this may take a few weeks). Rub down until smooth and recoat.
3. Totally strip back to a clean surface and repaint.

The paint can't adhere to the surface because of contamination by oil, grease, wax or polish. So the paint draws back, leaving unpainted areas, usually in the form of small spots. To remedy the situation, if the paint is still wet wash it all off, allow the surface to dry and thoroughly harden, then rub it down using wet and dry abrasive paper (or waterproof silicon carbide) and warm water with a bit of detergent. Rinse the surface thoroughly and allow drying before repainting.

The defect can also be seen when applying water based paint onto a shinny or glossy surface that hasn't been abraded properly.

White patches were observed randomly on the interior walls of the rooms. Upon wiping off the white patches on the walls, the paint film is still intact, the white patches resurfaced after a few days/weeks. These white patches/powdery were probably due to salts or degradation from the substrate or old paint works.

Putting it right:

To repaint the affected areas, the following procedure is recommended:

1. Clean with clean water and allow to dry/Use damp cloth to remove white patches on the wall and allow it to dry thoroughly
2. Apply 1 coat of Dulux Weathershield Alkali Resisting Primer Sealer A579–15054.
3. Apply 2 coat of Dulux Top coat.

If you do have any further queries, please do call us again.

Mould growth will grow under the following conditions:

1. Constant presence of moisture – The source of moisture can be from one or a combination of the following factors:

a. Condensation occurred when there was substantial difference in temperature between two sides of the surface. Condensation will occur on the hotter side.

b. Poor ventilation with high humidity within the home with insufficient ventilation will promote mould growth.

2. Presence of spore which is commonly in the air and will be more around lush greenery.

Putting it right:

For repainting, the following paint system is recommended to prolong mould growth from occurring:

1. For areas infested with mould, treat the algae with Dulux Fungicidal Wash and leave for at least 24 hours before wiping down with clean water.
2. Allow the walls to be dry thoroughly before the painting. Moisture reading from the Protimeter must be is less than 15%.
3. Apply 1 coat of Dulux Weathershield Alkali Resisting Wall Primer Sealer (A579–15054).
4. Apply 2 coats of Dulux Pentalite Mouldguard.or Dulux All

Note: Painting with mould resistance paint will only prolong the mould from surfacing but will not permanently emiminate it. Some adjustment to the lifestyle and daily routine will help to control mould growth in the long term.

If you do have any further queries, please do call us again.

Scuff marks can sometimes be seen on the surface of matt finish paints after the wall has been wiped or cleaned of stains. Wiping the wall can lead to the removal of pigments from the paint film and this creates a glossier surface as compared to the original finish. Change in gloss of the paint film when subjected to rubbing, scrubbing or having an object brush up against it. Scuff marks are usually seen on matt finished walls.

Some other causes :

1. Frequent washing and spot cleaning.
2. Objects (furniture, for example) rubbing against the walls.
3. Use of lower grades of paint with poor stain and scrub resistance.

This scuff marks can be seen at certain angles of light reflection.

Putting it right

For areas on the wall where there is a need for repeated wiping, we recommend the use of Dulux Wash & Wear or Dulux All as it offers a higher resistance to scrubbing. Vigorous wiping with abrasive cloth s or cleaning agents however should be avoided.

This may be due to any of the following factors:
Moisture trapped beneath the surface of the paint film if the paint is applied over a powdery or friable surface or surface contamination such as dirt, oil, and grease or due to water seepage.

Excessive movement of the substrate, such as joints, imposing stress on the paint film which can result in cracking which in turn lets in moisture, ultimately resulting in a flaking paint film.

Putting it right:

Determine the root cause if blistering is due to water seepage. Rectify the root cause of water seepage before painting commence.

1. Remove all blistering and flaking paint film
2. Wipe away any powders on the surface with wet cloth or high pressure water jet (for exterior)
3. Patch up cracks with suitable/compatible flexible putty.
4. Apply 1 coat of Dulux WEathershield Alkali Resisting Primer Sealer
5. Apply 2 coats of Dulux Emulsion

The paint can't adhere to the surface because of contamination by oil, grease, wax or polish. So the paint draws back, leaving unpainted areas, usually in the form of small spots. To remedy the situation, if the paint is still wet wash it all off, allow the surface to dry and thoroughly harden, then rub it down using wet and dry abrasive paper (or waterproof silicon carbide) and warm water with a bit of detergent. Rinse the surface thoroughly and allow drying before repainting.

The defect can also be seen when applying water based paint onto a shinny or glossy surface that hasn't been abraded properly.

For interior emulsions under normal atmospheric conditions it will take 1 to 2 hours to dry. If the temperature is higher and the humidity is lower than the paint will dry faster. Always ensure that the room is well ventilated too.

Paint will age over time, naturally with the aging and the exposure to atmospheric dust it will become dull compared to freshly painted walls. Buildings with overhanging roof will protect the paint on the vertical wall from constant weathering versus walls that are totally exposed to the natural elements. An air–conditioned room which is exposed to lesser dust and dirt deposit on the wall may also have its colour maintain better. Using paint products like Dulux All – with special attributes such as anti-mould or anti-bacteria will also help in providing longer lasting walls hence reducing the maintenance of your walls.

Common marks can be easily cleaned off by wiping with a soft sponge and a little soap solution. Dulux Wash and Wear or Dulux All products are recommended for walls because of their superior washability and high scrub resistance. However, the extent of stain residue depends largely on the types and grade of lipstick, crayons etc being applied on the walls.

It is not recommended to use duct tape or self–sticking hangers on the walls, as this might result in the tearing of the paint film when attempting to remove the duct tape or self–sticking hanger. You can substitute such tape with blue tack instead.

Using the environmental principles of reduces, reuse, and recycle there are lots of ways you can mitigate environmental impacts.

Reduce the paint you buy

Reduce the amount of paint you have left over by calculating exactly how much you need for your decorating. At Dulux we have created a handy paint calculator to do this for you, but if you are in store then you need to look at the back of the paint container and check the coverage per litre that the paint gives you.

Reuse leftover paint

Leftover paint will last longer if the tin is sealed tightly. To reseal a can of paint so that it is airtight, wipe the rim of the can clean, replace the lid, place a block of wood over the top and tap it down with a hammer. Then quickly invert the securely lidded can to form an airtight seal which will help prevent skinning. Store leftover paint upright in a frost free, cool environment, and keep out of sight and reach of children.

Recycle empty paint containers

Empty paint containers can be recycled. Ask your Local Authority how this should be done as many do not want waste paint containers put into dustbins. If your containers can???t be recycled locally then dispose of them responsibly as general household waste.

Yes, Dulux conducts all its operations with respect for the environment, seeking to drive down the impact by reducing waste and emissions and using energy, water and other raw materials efficiently.

Today the biggest environmental issue facing the paint industry is that of Volatile Organic Compound (VOC) emissions and their contribution to air pollution, or more simply, the effect of solvents contained in paints on the air that we breathe. Choosing water-based paints over solvent-based alternatives is one way you can minimize the emissions from decorating.

The main difference in the packages is that you can choose Dulux All, Dulux Wash and Wear and Dulux Light & Space for Premier package. For Classic package it will be colours from Pentalite.

Usually it will be around 2–4 days depending on the area and the walls. Walls that require for treatment will take longer. For landed properties, it will be based on case by case basis.

Our Dulux professional painters will first visit your homes to assess the condition of your walls and provide interior home colour advice to achieve the best mood for your homes. This is a no–obligation quote.

Dulux Colour Consultation Service allow visualization of colours in realistic images of actual homes and thus helps prevent painful mistakes made in colour selection after painting which will incur more cost and inconvenience to re-paint.

All you need to do is take a picture of the room you want to paint, specify any colour or theme preferences and email the information to Dulux Colour Consultation Service.

Personalized and detailed, we will revert with photographs of the room in selected colour combinations. Or if a more personalize service is preferred, you can opt for a one-to-one session with our Colour Consultants at Dulux Colour Solutions Centre where discussion on the style and favourites colours can take place.

To engage this service, send through email with the attachments (not bigger than 10MB) to customer.care.sg@akzonobel.com.

This service is a value-added service which we provide to consumers. Thus you need not pay for the service.