Isabella Flores
Gloss paint is notorious for yellowing over time, especially oil-based gloss paints. While there is no guaranteed way to prevent yellowing, there are certain types of paint and techniques that can reduce the likelihood of yellowing. For example, water-based gloss paint is less likely to yellow than oil-based paint. Additionally, using a stain-blocking primer or a chemical stain and tannin-blocking primer can help reduce the occurrence of yellowing. Some specific paint products that are recommended for reducing yellowing include Zinsser Bin, Johnstone's Aqua Guard, Crown Acrylic, and Benjamin Moore Advance Satin.
How do I stop gloss paint from going yellow?
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Type of paint | Water-based paint is less likely to go yellow compared to oil-based paint. Hybrid paint, a combination of oil and water, will also go yellow over time, but at a slower rate than oil-based paint. |
| Paint products | Quick-dry gloss paint, vinyl paint, water-based enamel paint, and Dulux Diamond Satinwood paint are less likely to go yellow. |
| Undercoat | Using an undercoat can help prevent yellowing. Products such as Zinsser BIN, Johnstone's Aqua Guard, and Crown Acrylic are recommended. |
| Topcoat | Avoid using a water-based clear topcoat over bright white paints as it may cause yellowing. Lighter-colored paints may be slightly altered with a topcoat application. |
| Surface preparation | Sanding the surface before applying paint can improve the final result and help cover any existing yellow paint. |
| Primers and blockers | Using a stain-blocking primer or a chemical stain and tannin-blocking primer can help reduce the occurrence of yellowing. |
| Surface material | Wood surfaces, especially certain types such as oak, pine, mahogany, and Douglas Fir, are prone to tannin bleed-through, which can cause yellowing. |
| Paint color | Bright white paints are more prone to yellowing over time, regardless of the use of a topcoat. |
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What You'll Learn
Use water-based paint
One of the most effective ways to prevent gloss paint from yellowing over time is to opt for water-based paint instead of oil-based paint. Traditional oil-based paints are more prone to yellowing due to the oxidation process, whereas water-based paints, also known as latex or acrylic paints, are
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Avoid oil-based paint
Gloss paint tends to yellow over time, and oil-based paints are particularly susceptible to this. To avoid discolouration, opt for water-based paints instead. These are now widely available and, contrary to old arguments, are durable enough for general domestic use. They are also easier to touch up and have less odour than oil-based paints.
While water-based paints are less likely to yellow, they are not entirely immune to discolouration. Hybrid water-oil paints, for example, will still yellow over time, just at a slower rate than fully oil-based paints.
If you are set on using oil-based paints, be aware that any topcoat applied over them can also contribute to yellowing. This is due to the topcoat reacting with the paint or the underlying surface. To reduce the likelihood of yellowing, you can use a stain and tannin-blocking primer, such as General Finishes' Stain Blocker, before applying the topcoat. However, the safest option is to avoid using any topcoat over oil-based paints, especially if they are white or light-coloured.
In addition to choosing the right type of paint and topcoat, proper surface preparation is crucial to prevent yellowing. This may include sanding, cleaning with sugar soap, and applying an appropriate undercoat. For previously painted surfaces, it is essential to ensure compatibility between the new paint and the existing finish to avoid unwanted reactions and colour changes.
Finally, when painting over wood, be cautious when using light-coloured paints, especially bright whites. Wood can contain tannins and dyes that may bleed through the paint and cause discolouration. Some types of wood, such as oak, pine, mahogany, and Douglas fir, are particularly prone to this issue.
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Use a primer or undercoat
Using a primer or undercoat is essential to achieving a high-quality finish when painting. It is especially crucial when working with high-gloss paint, as it helps to create a smooth and consistent base for the glossy topcoat.
When dealing with bare surfaces, such as raw wood, new drywall, or fresh plaster, a primer is necessary to regulate paint absorption. These materials are highly porous, and applying gloss paint directly can result in blotchy patches or streaks. A primer improves porosity and ensures that subsequent paint layers adhere strongly. For bare wood, it is recommended to apply two coats of a primer, such as the General Finishes Stain Blocker, followed by a topcoat.
Undercoats are typically applied after the primer and serve to fill any remaining imperfections, creating a flat, level, and neutral-coloured base. They are particularly useful when transitioning from darker to lighter colours, as they help lighten the surface. Undercoats also work to fortify the function of primers or sealers, creating a robust and moisture-resistant barrier. When using high-gloss paint, it is generally best to apply an undercoat, especially when there is a dramatic colour change.
In addition to using a primer or undercoat, it is often necessary to sand the surface before painting. Sanding removes imperfections and adds adhesion by creating a rough surface for the paint to bond to. This is crucial for wooden surfaces, as it helps the paint adhere properly and reduces the likelihood of peeling or fading.
When choosing a primer or undercoat, it is important to consider the type of surface being painted. For example, metal surfaces require a primer to prevent the paint from flaking off. Zinsser Bin is a popular choice for priming and undercoating, and it can be found at Screwfix. Other recommended products include the Leyland WB primer undercoat and the Johnstone's Aqua range for both primer and topcoat.
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Avoid a topcoat
If you want to avoid a topcoat, there are a few options to consider. Firstly, you can explore using paints that do not require a topcoat. For instance, General Finishes' Milk Paint is a self-sealing, exterior-rated coating that does not need a topcoat. Their Enduro White Poly is another option that serves as a standalone finish when three coats are applied.
Additionally, you can opt for paints that are less likely to yellow over time. Water-based paints, such as acrylic paints, are a good alternative to oil-based paints, which are known to yellow due to the formation of chromophores during the drying process. Acrylic resins produce a more colorfast finish, so consider paints labelled "all-acrylic" or "100% acrylic". Satin finishes are also recommended as they are less likely to yellow; options include Dulux Diamond Satinwood, Benjamin Moore Scuff-X White Satin, and Caparol PU Satin.
If you are set on using gloss paint, quick-dry gloss is an option that does not yellow. However, keep in mind that the nature of gloss paint is such that it tends to yellow over time.
To further reduce the chances of yellowing, ensure that the painted surface is well-lit and ventilated. Lack of light and exposure to oxygen can contribute to the formation of chromophores, leading to yellowing. Additionally, moisture, cooking grease, and cigarette smoke can impart a yellow tinge, so it is important to address any leaks or sources of contamination.
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Use acrylic paint
Oil-based paints tend to yellow over time, especially without exposure to direct UV light. This is due to the formation of chromophores, which are colour-producing molecules that develop as the paint dries. Chromophores break down when exposed to light, but in the absence of light, they remain in the paint coat, causing it to turn yellow.
To prevent gloss paint from yellowing, consider using acrylic paint, which is water-based and less prone to yellowing. Acrylic paint produces a more colourfast finish than regular latex paint. Look for labels such as "all-acrylic" or "100 percent acrylic," which indicate the presence of high-quality acrylic resins.
Before using acrylic paint, properly prepare the surface, especially if you are repainting over old gloss paint. Lightly sand the surface to create a suitable base for the new paint. If the existing paint is oil-based, you may need to rub it down or treat it to prevent bubbling or delamination when the new paint dries.
When using acrylic paint, work quickly as it tends to dry faster than oil-based paints. Keep a bowl of water nearby to prevent the paint from drying out too quickly, and use a good-quality synthetic brush for the best results. If you need to do multiple coats, make sure to let each coat dry completely before applying the next one.
By following these steps and using acrylic paint, you can help prevent your gloss paint from yellowing and maintain a fresh and vibrant appearance for longer.
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Frequently asked questions
Water-based gloss paint is less likely to yellow over time compared to oil-based paint.
Yes, some options include:
- Dulux Diamond Satinwood
- Johnstone's Aqua range
- Benjamin Moore Advance Satin
- Crown Acrylic
Yes, you could consider using a vinyl paint, which gives a matt finish and doesn't yellow. One recommendation is Leyland Hardwearing Matt Brilliant White.
Yes, if you are painting over an existing coat of paint, it is recommended to use a primer or undercoat to create a barrier that can help prevent yellowing. Some options include:
- Zinsser BIN
- Johnstone's Aqua Guard
- Stain Blocker
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