Topic: Latex Paints

All,

I see a lot of people in the USA seem to be using what they refer to as 'exterior Latex paints' as a finish on their models and get very good results.

Apparently they are readily available in DIY stores over there and it's very cheap.

Does anyone know exactly what these paints are (or would be known as)....in somewhere like 'B&Q'?

Thanks.

It's their phrase for what we call vinyl paints, i.e vinyl silk, vinyl matt.

Is it Fuel proof???
Tentpeg. 

Is it Fuel proof???
Tentpeg. 

No. Needs a laquer/varnish layer.

Steve

It's their phrase for what we call vinyl paints, i.e vinyl silk, vinyl matt.

But vinyl silk and matt are strictly interior paints, the US stuff claims to be exterior?

My apologies, it is so many years since I looked into it after reading Roy Vaillancourt's article that I had remembered the wrong term.  It is emulsion, not vinyl.  Latex paint doesn't actually contain latex, it contains synthetic polymers that behave like latex, usually involving the word acrylic such as acrylic, vinyl acrylic (PVA), styrene acrylic.  The paint is water based, not oil based.  Paint advice: choosing the correct paint for painting & decorating - Paint Quality Institute, UK
So any exterior emulsion, water based, involving the word acrylic should do it.

http://www.houstonhobbies.com/tips/painting/latex/spraying-latex.pdf

While I can't tell you what the UK term is for what we in N America call latex house paint I can add  a few comments on its use and limitations. Latex house paint over comes in 2 configurations - interior and exterior. The main difference being that exterior grade has better UV resistance properties due to its use outside and exposure to direct sun. Without this it would fade and go chalky very quickly.
Modelers here who use latex paints are predominantly flying gassers and the latex stands up reasonably well to this fuel. However it does not hold up well to nitro so in these applications it has to be clear coated. Those that are concerned about the yellowing effect of clear coats usually opt for automotive clear coats which while very durable and clear are expensive thus reducing some of the savings derived from using latex house paints.
Byron

All,

I see a lot of people in the USA seem to be using what they refer to as 'exterior Latex paints' as a finish on their models and get very good results.

Apparently they are readily available in DIY stores over there and it's very cheap.

Does anyone know exactly what these paints are (or would be known as)....in somewhere like 'B&Q'?

Thanks.

When i did my Bronco i bought the small Humbrol tinlets of the colours i needed then painted 2"x2" peices of aluminium then took them up to Homebase who scanned them into there paint mixer You ask them for "Tester" size tins which are 250ml and cost roughly £1-50. Perfect match. You really have to let them dry thoroughly though and i can only vouch for them on petrol models. I don't know the reaction to glow fuel