Decoration Tips

With the arrival of Hong Kong’s southern weather, humid weather not only makes people feel stuffy and uncomfortable, but also brings serious mold and mildew problems to the home environment. Humid air is like a breeding ground for mold, and walls, ceilings and furniture surfaces are often “hardest hit”. Mold not only affects the aesthetics, the spores released may also trigger asthma, allergic rhinitis and other respiratory diseases, posing a threat to health. Therefore, how to effectively prevent and deal with the mold problem has become a challenge that every family must face.

In general, maintaining ventilation, using dehumidifiers or air conditioners to reduce moisture, and regularly cleaning waterlogged areas can effectively control indoor humidity and reduce the chance of mold growth. However, these methods can only prevent mold, but for mold problems that have already appeared, more professional solutions are needed.

Nippon Paint Anti-fungus Solution, together with Nippon Paint Colour Mini, provides a highly effective “one wipe, one coat” solution for mold removal and prevention. Nippon Paint Anti-fungus Solution can penetrate deep into the roots of stubborn mold on the wall, instantly removing and sterilizing the mold, and can also strongly inhibit the growth of mold and prevent it from re-growing; Nippon Paint Colour Mini is clean and environmentally friendly, with its own roller and easy to paint, it can perfectly cover the traces of mold and has the function of mildew prevention. If we use two product together it can provide a long-lasting protection for the wall surface brightness.

During flu seasons, disinfection is crucial. While we diligently clean our hands, devices, and furniture, walls—often overlooked touchpoints—can harbor viruses and bacteria. Beyond basic hygiene, choosing the right paint can reduce virus transmission.
Indeed, walls exert a considerable influence on indoor health environments that cannot be overlooked. By incorporating anti-viral paint during decoration, we can provide an additional layer of protection for our home environments.

Enhancing Antiviral Protection for the Home Environment
Nippon Paint Anti-Viral Odour-less Kids Paint integrates full-effect functionality, seamlessly blending innovative technologies: Anti-virus, Anti-bacteria, Formaldehyde Abatement and Anti-stain. It is not only tailored as a wall paint for children but is equally appropriate for all family members. It is formulated with silver ion technology, which is effective against a variety of common viruses such as Influenza A (H3N2) and Enterovirus 71(EV71) ¹. It can resist 11 kinds of bacteria² and 11 kinds of fungus³, reducing the risk of infections. Furthermore, it possesses exceptional anti-bacterial and anti-fungal capabilities, effectively resisting 11 types of bacteria² and 11 types of mold³, achieving an antibacterial rate of up to 99.9%. It provides you and your family with a hygienic, healthy, and safe living environment.

Principles for the anti-virus properties of silver ions
Sliver ion is one of the world’s oldest natural antimicrobials. It resists the growth of micro-organisms like viruses, bacteria, mold and fungi. It’s absolutely safe for human and pets.
1. Positively charged silver ions and negatively charged microbe cell membranes are attracted to each other upon contact.
2. Silver ions destroy protein structure of cell membranes
3. Make the viruses and bacteria non-functional. Stop them from reproducing and multiplying, then eventually causes the death.

*Effective against viruses – 99% Influenza A Virus and 93% Enterovirus Type 71

Nippon Paint’s Antiviral Odorless Children’s Paint is environmentally friendly and odour-less, not only being formaldehyde-free itself and emitting nearly zero VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds), but also actively purifying indoor air by removing free formaldehyde⁴. It also achieves the highest level to first-grade anti-stain⁵, and evoke colour brightness, providing you and your kids an upgraded all-round protection with fresh and clean home surroundings.

In addition, the product boasts excellent scrub resistance, making daily cleaning simple and quick. Even if the walls are accidentally dirtied, they can be easily wiped clean to restore their original appearance, maintaining the cleanliness and aesthetics of the home environment. At the same time, the product offers a rich selection of computer-matched colors, whether it’s warm tones for a cozy and comfortable atmosphere or cool tones for a fresh and natural look, all of which can be easily achieved to satisfy your personalized pursuit of home aesthetics.
Fighting flu starts with the walls of your home. Choose Nippon Paint’s Antiviral Odorless Children’s Paint to make your walls the first line of defense in protecting your family, creating a warm, healthy, and safe home environment.

With the growing popularity of DIY culture, more and more people are choosing to paint their homes themselves. Taking on the task not only helps reduce renovation costs but also allows you to select paint products tailored to your personal preferences and needs. You can freely choose custom color tones to reflect your unique style. By engaging in the process firsthand, you can enjoy the satisfaction of painting while gaining valuable skills, ultimately revitalizing your living space. Here, we present a comprehensive DIY painting guide, covering all the essential steps and tips to help you achieve professional-quality results.

Painting Process Steps

1. Preparation
   • Clear the work area by removing any furniture that may obstruct the process.
   • Use Adhesive Tape to protect areas that do not require painting, such as baseboards, and cover furniture and floors with Masker Tape.
2. Basic Tools Preparation
   • For large areas: Paint roller, roller tray, and extension pole.
   • For detailed work: Paintbrush and small paint bucket.
   • Auxiliary tools: Paint stirrer, measuring cup, sandpaper, scraper, and putty knife.
   • Safety equipment: Mask, gloves, and safety goggles.
3. Paint Materials Preparation
   • Paint remover or wall scraper solution.
   • Varnish or sealer.
   • Waterproof primer (if needed).
   • Wall putty.
   • Primer.
   • Topcoat (emulsion paint or artistic paint).
4. Construction Steps
   1. Wall Cleaning: Use paint remover to strip old paint. If the wall is aged, remove loose plaster and damaged surfaces (full scraping).
   2. Moisture-proof Sealing: Apply varnish or sealer and allow it to dry completely.
   3. Filling and Repair: Use wall putty to patch cracks and uneven areas, then smooth with sandpaper.
   4. Primer Application: Apply an even coat of primer and allow it to dry thoroughly.
   5. Topcoat Application: Apply at least two coats of topcoat, ensuring each layer dries completely before the next.

The Importance of Primer and Topcoat
In a paint coating system, primer and topcoat play distinct yet equally crucial roles. The primer acts as the first line of defense, not only enhancing the adhesion of the topcoat but also preventing moisture penetration, thereby creating an ideal foundation for the subsequent application of the topcoat. The topcoat, on the other hand, is the outermost layer that delivers the desired decorative effects, such as different color tones or textures, which can completely transform the ambiance of a home. Additionally, the topcoat must possess the ability to withstand environmental factors. For instance, interior wall paints often incorporate special features like moisture resistance, antibacterial properties, and stain resistance, ensuring the paint surface remains durable while promoting a healthier and more aesthetically pleasing living environment.

Multifunctional Paint
With continuous advancements in paint technology, modern paint products have evolved beyond basic decorative purposes to incorporate a variety of practical features, catering to diverse living needs. As people increasingly prioritize health and environmental sustainability, zero-VOC paints, which are free from volatile organic compounds, have become widely available. These eco-friendly paints not only eliminate odors but also feature formaldehyde-decomposing properties, continuously improving indoor air quality. Additionally, characteristics such as moisture resistance, mold resistance, antibacterial properties, and virus protection are particularly suited for users who value cleanliness and hygiene.

In summary, different spaces can benefit from selecting paints with the appropriate functionalities to fully leverage their protective and practical advantages. For example, damp areas should be coated with moisture- and mold-resistant paints, while living rooms or children’s rooms can benefit from stain-resistant paints for easier cleaning. For master bedrooms, where a touch of sophistication is desired, specialty paints with unique textures, such as artistic finishes, can elevate the overall aesthetic. By choosing the right paint for each space, homeowners can enhance both the functionality and style of their living environment.

Tips for Using Color Cards
Many people assume that the paint color on a color card will look exactly the same on the wall, but this is a common misconception. Due to factors like light reflection, the color on the walls often appears slightly darker than it does on the color card.

• Choosing Colors: When selecting a color from the card, it’s best to choose a shade slightly lighter than your preferred color.
• Color Variations: It’s recommended to compare the physical color card in the actual space, as lighting can significantly affect how the color appears. Additionally, to avoid discrepancies caused by screen color differences, avoid relying solely on digital color cards. Always review the physical color card before making a purchase.

Tool Purchasing Guide
When visiting a color-matching center, in addition to using color cards to select your desired paint color, remember to also equip yourself with the appropriate tools for the job:

• For regular emulsion paint: It’s recommended to purchase a paint roller, paintbrush, and roller tray.
• For artistic paint: Specialized tools are required to achieve the desired texture and effects.

Helpful Tip: If you’re unsure which tools are needed, consult the staff at the color-matching center. They can recommend the right toolset based on the type of paint you’ve chosen and the size of the area to be painted.

A One-Stop Solution for a Safe and Comfortable Home
We understand the high standards modern families have for their living environments, which is why we have introduced the comprehensive Nippon Paint Anti-Formaldehyde Odour-less Children’s Paint Series. This series offers three high-quality paint products designed specifically for children’s spaces. Not only do they allow homeowners to DIY and create the aesthetic of their dream home, but they also ensure a zero-pollution living space, catering to the diverse needs of every family.

Nippon Paint Odour-less Kids Paint – Basic Protection
The Children’s Paint series focuses on eco-friendliness and safety, effectively decomposing formaldehyde while featuring a zero-VOC, odour-free formula to keep indoor air fresh. It also boasts Grade I antibacterial properties (effective against 20 common bacteria and molds) and Grade I stain resistance, combined with superior mold prevention and moisture-breathable functionality, making it an ideal choice for home renovations.

In recent years, the DIY renovation trend has gained immense popularity, with many people enjoying the process of personally designing and refreshing their homes. This trend not only reflects the modern pursuit of a tasteful lifestyle but also showcases the growing love for creating personalized spaces. As walls are the largest visual element in a home, their finish often sets the tone and atmosphere of the entire space. Choosing the right wall paint and taking on a DIY project not only allows you to unleash your creativity and bring your ideal design to life but also gives you control over material quality, ensuring the health and safety of your family from the very beginning. Want to master the secrets of DIY painting and create the perfect walls? Let’s dive into the details and share the essential tips!

Comprehensive Guide to Wall Treatment Solutions
Today’s common wall treatment options include paint, wallpaper, wall fabric, and feature walls. Each method varies in terms of aesthetics, durability, DIY flexibility, and cost. For example, paint stands out for its wide range of color choices, from traditional emulsion paints to artistic paints, offering a variety of targeted functionalities. Its affordability also makes it a popular choice. However, mastering the technique of even application can be challenging, and each coat requires sufficient drying time before the next can be applied, making the overall process relatively time-consuming.

While paint offers a rich spectrum of colors and artistic paints can create unique textures, wallpaper and wall fabric provide more intricate and delicate patterns, with a relatively straightforward installation process. That said, in Hong Kong’s humid and hot climate, these materials are prone to moisture damage, leading to issues like bubbling and peeling, often resulting in a shorter lifespan than expected.

As for feature walls, whether using trendy stone panels or warm slatted wood, they can inject unique personality into a space. While these designs are durable and visually appealing, they require higher construction expertise and professional support. Costs can also vary significantly depending on the materials chosen, so careful budget consideration is essential.

▲ Feature wall designs are durable and aesthetically pleasing, but they require higher construction expertise and professional support.

Decoding Paint Types: Find the One That Suits You Best
Considering flexibility and versatility, paint is undoubtedly the top choice for DIY projects. However, with so many types of paint available on the market—such as primers and topcoats, and topcoats further divided into emulsion paints, artistic paints, and oil-based or water-based options—what exactly sets them apart?

In fact, paint is more than just a material for decorating walls; it also forms a protective coating. Its functions can be categorized into three main types: decorative (color, texture, and gloss), protective (moisture resistance, stain/scrub resistance, and durability), and special functions (formaldehyde decomposition, antibacterial, and antiviral properties).

A complete painting process typically includes two main parts: primer and topcoat. The primer, as the first layer, primarily enhances adhesion and protects the base material, while the topcoat, as the outermost layer, serves a decorative purpose. When choosing the right paint, the type of base material is a key consideration. Different base materials require different types of paint. For example, concrete and cement surfaces are suitable for emulsion paints, but it’s important to ensure the environmental humidity does not exceed 85%. Wood, on the other hand, is prone to expansion and contraction due to environmental factors, making it more suitable for wood paints with strong adhesion and penetration.

As for artistic paints mentioned earlier, they are also a type of paint that has been popular in Europe and the US for some time. Like most paints, they generally offer good breathability, water resistance, and other functionalities. They also provide natural and versatile effects, allowing for textures such as concrete, velvet, and metallic finishes. Although slightly more expensive than regular paints, they can achieve unique textures and are less prone to moisture damage compared to wallpaper and wall fabric. Additionally, there’s no need to worry about seams. However, achieving the desired texture requires some skill during application.

▲Artistic paints offer natural and versatile effects, creating textures like faux concrete, velvet, and metallic finishes, with some even mimicking raw concrete.

In short, modern paint technology continues to innovate, and topcoat products now boast diverse functionalities such as moisture resistance, anti-viral properties, mold prevention, and formaldehyde abatement. When making a purchase, consider balancing decorative appeal with functional needs based on your environment and requirements to ensure optimal results.

Tips from a Color Analyst to Create Your Ideal Living Space
Urban dwellers often face high levels of daily stress, and coming home to a relaxing environment is essential. Did you know that the color coordination of your home decor can significantly impact your emotional well-being? Additionally, the choice of wall colors can influence the visual perception of space. To create a comfortable and personalized living space, the color scheme in your home decor plays a crucial role. Below, we explore how to craft your own unique home color palette.

Can Colors Reveal Personality Traits?
Beyond influencing personal health, the colors you are naturally drawn to in daily life can also reveal hidden personality traits. According to personal color analyst Wong Ching Ching (Siu Lung):

In reality, everyone’s perception of color is highly subjective, and the personality traits associated with colors are not absolute. As long as a color makes you feel comfortable and at ease, don’t hesitate to give it a try!

How Can Colors Make a Space Feel Larger or Smaller?
Many people believe that as long as the walls of a home are clean and tidy, that’s sufficient, often overlooking the importance of interior color schemes. However, choosing the right colors in home design can significantly enhance the visual perception of space. Personal color analyst Wong Ching Ching (Siu Lung) explains that colors can be divided into chromatic (colored) and achromatic (non-colored) categories. Achromatic colors include black, white, and gray, while all other colors fall under the chromatic category. Both types have variations in brightness, which essentially refers to how light or dark a color is.

Just like in fashion, light colors create a bright, clean, and spacious feel, while dark colors evoke a sense of depth and coziness but can make a space feel more confined. Therefore, if you want your home to feel larger and brighter, opting for light achromatic colors for walls and ceilings is a great choice. If solid colors feel too monotonous, you can incorporate some chromatic elements to add vibrancy and further enhance the sense of space. However, it’s important not to overdo it, as too much color can have the opposite effect.

How to Find the Right Home Style?
Wong Ching Ching (Siu Lung) further explains that home color schemes differ from personal color preferences. Home color schemes focus on reflecting personal personality and perception. For example, younger individuals often prefer using low to medium saturation pastel tones to convey a youthful vibe, adding an elegant and romantic impression. Those who enjoy a casual or nature-inspired style tend to favor wood-like browns, paired with beige or off-white as a base, and accentuated with touches of green for a fresh feel. Families with children or those with lively personalities often opt for bright and cheerful looks, typically combining high-saturation solid colors to create a vibrant and colorful home environment.

Which Home Style is Most Recommended?
Everyone has their own ideal home decor style in mind. To help you find inspiration, we’ve compiled four popular home design trends from recent years.

1. Minimalist Cream Style

With the rise of the cream aesthetic, this style builds on the foundation of minimalism by incorporating softer hues and warm textures. The gentle glow of cream tones creates a cozy and inviting atmosphere, adding an elegant touch to the space. Emphasizing relaxation and comfort, this style pairs well with natural material furniture, making the home environment more approachable and evoking a sense of warmth and coziness.

2. Modern Contemporary Style

Modern contemporary style often revolves around neutral tones like white, gray, and black, emphasizing simplicity and clean design. It pays close attention to the play of natural light, which is why large windows or floor-to-ceiling glass panels are commonly featured, along with open-plan layouts. Furniture choices typically include glass and metal elements, creating a sleek and stylish atmosphere. Adding bold contrasting colors, such as pairing blue with orange, can further enhance the unique and fashionable appeal of this style.

3. Natural Nordic Style

The core palette of natural Nordic style revolves around off-white and creamy beige tones, often paired with soft green accents. Featuring low saturation and higher brightness combinations, this style frequently incorporates natural materials like wood for furniture, creating a raw and textured aesthetic. The overall effect is a delicate and gentle atmosphere that feels warm and inviting.

4. Elegant Romantic Style

Those who appreciate a refined and graceful aesthetic will surely love this elegant romantic style. The color palette primarily features white, purple, and pink tones, complemented by versatile furniture in beige or gray to balance the sweetness of the pink. The overall look avoids being overly girlish, instead exuding a soft and refreshing vibe.

How to Solve Home Wall Issues
When creating a personalized home, one of the most frustrating challenges is dealing with Hong Kong’s humidity problems. Large areas of mold can cause wall paint to peel, making it crucial to choose paint products wisely. Many paint brands on the market offer a variety of features, and Nippon Paint Anti-Viral Odour-less Kids Paint stands out with its eco-friendly, odour-less formula. It incorporates silver ion technology, Grade I antibacterial properties, and formaldehyde abatement capabilities. Its Grade I stain resistance ensures durability against stains and scrubbing, while its superior mold resistance, anti-moisture properties, and excellent washability not only promote family health but also keep wall colors vibrant and long-lasting, even in humid weather. Additionally, Nippon Paint Odour-less Kids Paint (Interior Emulsion) can abating harmful formaldehyde and contains Grade I anti-bacterial functions, effectively preventing moist and fungus.

If you want to add an artistic touch to your home, you can try Nippon Paint Kids Odour-less All In One Art Paint. With its unique eggshell sheen and the use of specialized painting tools, it can create four different styles of lambskin-like textures. At the same time, it offers anti-virus, antibacterial, formaldehyde-abatement, and anti-mold properties, making it suitable for large-area applications throughout the entire home. This paint transforms walls into something truly unique, delivering both aesthetic appeal and rich visual effects.

Choosing the right tiles can often be confusing during renovations. With a wide variety of tile types and prices, many homeowners wonder, “Why is there such a big difference in price when they’re all just tiles?” This article reveals the factors influencing tile prices, helping you find the ideal balance between budget and quality.

Key Factors Affecting Tile Price

• Origin and Brand
  The origin and brand significantly impact tile prices. According to the Hong Kong market, common tile sources include:
  – Mainland China (mainly Foshan): Approximately $20–$40 per square foot
  – Europe (e.g., Italy, Spain): Approximately $60–$80 per square foot
  – Malaysia: Price falls between that of China and Europe
  European tiles are generally more expensive due to high quality, better quality control, and superior flatness. These tiles also include transportation costs and brand value. However, high-end tiles from China have recently improved in quality, becoming more competitive and affordable.
• Material and Manufacturing Process
  The material and manufacturing process of tiles directly impact their price. Common tile materials include:
  – Ceramic Tiles: Higher water absorption, suitable for indoor use, relatively affordable
  – Stone Tiles: Low water absorption, good slip resistance, ideal for kitchens and bathrooms, moderate price
  – Polished Quartz Tiles: Wear-resistant and acid-alkali resistant, suitable for high-traffic areas, higher price
  Different surface treatments, such as polishing, matte finishing, or inkjet printing, can also affect costs.
• Size and Design
  Tile size and design can influence the price:
  – Large Tiles (e.g., 60×60 cm or larger) are generally more expensive.
  – Special Shapes or Patterned Designs are pricier than standard square tiles.
  – Wood-Look or Marble-Look Tiles with unique textures are often more expensive.

How to Choose the Right Tiles

• Choosing Based on the Space
  Different spaces require different tile specifications:
  – Living Room: Large polished tiles enhance the sense of space and add texture.
  – Kitchen: Use non-slip, easy-to-clean tiles like stone tiles.
  – Bathroom: Opt for slip-resistant, waterproof tiles, such as mosaics or smaller-sized tiles.
• Considering Practicality and Aesthetics
  Both practicality and aesthetics are essential when selecting tiles:
  – Slip Resistance: For bathrooms and kitchens, choose tiles with a slip resistance rating of R9 or R10 and above.
  – Wear Resistance: High-traffic areas require tiles with a higher PEI (Porcelain Enamel Institute) rating.
  – Ease of Cleaning: Tiles with a nano-treated surface are easier to clean.
  – Color and Texture: Coordinate with the overall design style for the best decorative effect.
• Balancing Price and Quality
  To balance budget and quality, consider these strategies:
  – Use high-quality tiles in key areas, like the living room and master bedroom.
  – Opt for cost-effective tiles in secondary areas, such as locally made or Mainland tiles.
  – Combine tiles of different price ranges to create a layered design and unique visual appeal.
• Importance of Tile Adhesive
  After choosing the right tiles, using the correct tile adhesive is equally essential. For large or low-absorption tiles, high-quality adhesive ensures stability and durability.
• C1TE and C2TE Tile Adhesives
  – C1TE: Suitable for standard-sized tiles with regular absorption; has anti-slip properties and extended open time, ideal for general indoor applications.
  – C2TE: Suitable for large or low-absorption tiles; offers stronger adhesion and flexibility, suitable for situations needing extra support.

*For tiles larger than 90×60 cm or with an absorption rate below 3%, it is recommended to use C2TE-grade adhesive to ensure stable, long-lasting adhesion and prevent hollowing.

Summary
Selecting tiles involves not only aesthetics but also practicality and durability. Understanding the features of tiles at various price points, combined with practical needs, will help you make the best choice. Remember, high-quality tiles paired with the right adhesive create a perfect blend of beauty and functionality, adding long-lasting appeal and value to your home.

In the renovation process, selecting the right materials is crucial, especially for tile installation. With so many types of tile adhesives and cement mortar products on the market, many people often feel uncertain about which to choose. This guide provides an in-depth overview of tile adhesive characteristics, types, and selection methods to help you make the best decision.

Definition and Characteristics of Tile Adhesive
Tile adhesive, also known as tile bonding agent, is a polymer-modified cement-based product used to attach various types of tiles. Compared to traditional cement mortar, tile adhesive offers the following advantages:
– Strong Adhesion: Tile adhesive has much stronger bonding strength than cement mortar, significantly reducing issues like detachment and hollowness.
– Easy Application: It only requires water to mix, making it simple to use.
– Thin-Layer Application: Tile adhesive can be applied in a thin layer, effectively saving space.
– Excellent Crack Resistance and Water Resistance: Tile adhesive has superior crack and water resistance, making it suitable for various environments, including damp areas.

Introduction to EN12004 European Standard
EN12004 is the primary European standard for tile adhesives, categorizing products based on strength, slip resistance, and performance, guiding consumers in selecting the right product for their specific needs. Common classifications and their meanings include:
1. Non-standard: These do not meet EN12004 standards and generally have lower strength and durability, suitable for low-demand indoor environments or simple applications for small tiles.
2. C1TE: Basic cement-based tile adhesive meeting EN12004 standards, with good slip resistance (T) and extended open time (E). This level is suitable for general indoor or low-absorption substrates.
3. C2TE: An enhanced cement-based adhesive with stronger bonding strength (C2), slip resistance (T), and extended open time (E). This grade is ideal for outdoor use, large tiles, or heavy tiles, meeting higher demands, including resistance to significant temperature changes and outdoor moisture.

Selecting a tile adhesive that meets EN12004 standards ensures better installation results, reducing the need for maintenance and repair.

Comparison of Tile Adhesive and Other Materials
Understanding the differences between tile adhesive and other materials is important. Below is a comparison between tile adhesive and cement mortar:

How to Choose the Right Tile Adhesive
Choosing the right tile adhesive depends on substrate type, environmental conditions, and tile characteristics. Key factors to consider include:
– Substrate Type: For smooth or low-absorption substrates (e.g., glazed tiles), it’s recommended to use C2TE-grade enhanced tile adhesive to ensure a secure bond.
– Environmental Conditions: For damp environments (e.g., bathrooms), choose C2TE products with high water resistance. For outdoor or high-traffic areas, select C2TE adhesive with crack and weather resistance.
– Tile Size and Weight: Large or heavy tiles require C2TE-grade adhesive to prevent detachment due to temperature fluctuations.
– Installation Requirements: For projects requiring high thickness precision, use thin-layer tile adhesive to achieve a finer finish.

Types of C1TE and C2TE Tile Adhesive
According to the EN12004 standard, tile adhesives on the market are classified as follows:
1. Non-standard: Products that do not meet EN12004 standards and are suitable for low-demand environments.
2. C1TE: Basic type, suitable for small tiles on low-absorption substrates.
3. C2TE: Enhanced type, suitable for tiles of all sizes, heavy stone, and outdoor or high-moisture environments.

Choosing tile adhesive according to the EN12004 standard helps consumers make informed choices based on actual needs, ensuring effective installation.

Installation Tips
When using tile adhesive, consider the following tips to achieve the best results:
– Surface Preparation: The substrate should be dry, flat, and free of grease to enhance bonding strength.
– Mixing Ratio: Follow the product manual for the correct mixing ratio; do not add extra materials.
– Setting Time: Wait 24 hours after tiling before grouting to allow the adhesive to cure fully.
– Temperature Control: Maintain a working environment between 5°C to 40°C for optimal results.

Conclusion
Choosing the right tile adhesive is essential for achieving desired renovation results. By understanding the different product characteristics, applicable environments, and installation requirements according to the EN12004 standard, consumers can make the best choice for their needs. Correctly using EN12004-compliant tile adhesive not only improves installation results but also extends the lifespan of the renovation. We hope these tips will help you easily select the most suitable product for your next renovation and create your ideal home space.

Many notice hollow tiles on their walls or floors shortly after renovation, affecting aesthetics and raising safety concerns. We will dive into the five primary causes of hollow tiles and offer practical preventive measures to help you create a beautiful and durable home.

What is Tile Hollowness?
Before exploring the causes, it’s essential to understand tile hollowness. Hollow tiles occur when there is a gap between the tile and the substrate, preventing the tile from adhering tightly. If you hear a hollow “thud” sound when tapping a tile with a small hammer, it likely has hollowness.

Hollow tiles can lead to several issues, causing inconvenience and risks:
1. Safety Hazards: Hollow tiles can easily crack or fall, especially on walls, where an impact can cause tiles to detach, leading to potential injury.
2. Water Seepage Risks: In damp spaces like bathrooms or kitchens, hollowness increases the chance of water seepage, which may cause mold and substrate corrosion over time.
3. Daily Use Impact: Unstable tiles may hinder furniture placement and make cleaning and maintenance difficult.

Five Main Causes of Tile Hollowness

1. Improper Substrate Preparation
– Uneven Surface: An uneven substrate affects adhesive distribution, preventing the tile from fully adhering.
– Insufficient Cleaning: Dust, grease, or residues can obstruct adhesive bonding.
– Poor Moisture Control: Overly dry or damp substrates impede adhesive curing.

2. Tile Quality Issues
– High or Low Water Absorption Rate: This affects the adhesive’s efficacy, impacting tile adherence.
– Irregular Sizing: Uneven tile sizes can cause gaps during installation, increasing the risk of hollowness.
– Shallow or Smooth Tile Backing: Tiles with shallow or too-smooth backings don’t bond well with adhesives.

3. Improper Installation Techniques
– Insufficient Adhesive Application: Inadequate adhesive can lead to weak spots.
– Lack of Compaction: Failing to press tiles firmly with tools like rubber hammers creates air gaps.
– No Expansion Joints: Omitting expansion joints can cause tiles to loosen or detach during thermal expansion.

4. Environmental Factors
– Extreme Temperature Fluctuations: Significant temperature changes can cause inconsistent expansion and contraction between tiles and adhesive.
– Unstable Humidity: Very high or low humidity affects adhesive performance.
– Foundation Settling: New or unstable foundations can cause tile detachment due to settling.

5. Low-Quality Tile Adhesive
– Choosing low-cost, low-quality adhesive increases the risk of hollowness. C1TE standard (based on European standard EN 12004) ensures quality adhesive with strong bonding strength, anti-slip properties, and extended open time. Studies show that using C1TE-grade adhesives can reduce hollowness by 75%, highlighting the importance of high-quality adhesive.

Prevention Methods
With these causes in mind, we can take effective preventive measures based on different situations:

1. Substrate Preparation
– Ensure the substrate is level, using leveling materials if necessary.
– Clear dust and grease for a clean surface.
– Moisturize the substrate appropriately based on its water absorption.

2. Choose Quality Tiles
– Opt for tiles with stable water absorption and consistent sizing.
– Check the tile’s backing pattern for sufficient depth to ensure good adhesion.

3. Standard Installation
– Use a rubber hammer to compact tiles and prevent air gaps.
– Leave expansion joints as required to accommodate changes in temperature and humidity.

4. Environmental Control
– Install in stable temperature and humidity conditions.
– Avoid tile installation on unstable foundations.

5. Use High-Quality Tile Adhesive
– Select C1TE or higher-grade tile adhesive to ensure anti-slip and extended open time for better bonding and reduced hollowness risks.

Conclusion
Tile hollowness is a complex issue involving materials, techniques, and environmental factors. To effectively prevent hollowness, homeowners should:
1. Choose high-quality tiles and adhesives without compromising quality.
2. Hire a professional installation team for proper techniques.
3. Select suitable environmental conditions for installation to avoid high temperatures and humidity.

In Hong Kong, spring typically begins in February to March each year. However, the fluctuating temperatures and the high-density urban environment often lead to severe humidity issues. Apart from damp walls and ceilings, water droplets can seep into the base of the walls, and black mold may start to appear. If mold problems are not properly addressed, the situation can worsen over time. Beyond aesthetic concerns, mold can spread to unaffected walls. Prolonged exposure to mold spores may trigger various sensitivities and respiratory issues. Inhaling toxic mold can even lead to damage to internal organs and the nervous system.

Therefore, before deciding to paint your home, it’s essential to choose a comprehensive paint system with mold-resistant and moisture-proof properties. From the base material to the wall filler, primer, and topcoat, ensure full protection at every step.

1. Nippon Paint Anti-Fungus Solution: The Ultimate Mold Solution
There’s a common belief that bleach can remove mold, but improper use can lead to inhaling excessive irritants, harming respiratory health, and even damaging the paint surface or causing wall issues like peeling or discoloration. For a simple yet effective solution to completely eradicate mold, try Nippon Paint Anti-Fungus Solution. Designed specifically for painted surfaces, it’s suitable for both indoor and outdoor walls as well as wood surfaces. Just spray it to penetrate deep into the mold roots, quickly and thoroughly eliminating mold and bacteria. Wipe it clean, and your walls will regain their original color. It also effectively inhibits mold regrowth without damaging the wall.

People nowadays care more about their quality of life, unlike 10-20 years ago, the way people decorate and renovate their home is no longer just to be convenient, personal style and the interior design plays a big part too. Furniture not only have to be functional and convenient, it also has to fit the interior design by colour, shape, material used, style, etc. If furniture has to be the one in a million perfect match to your interior design, how could your wall be plain and boring? Nippon Paint understands your need and therefore introduces couple different creative coatings to suit any type of interior designs! Here are some of the creative coating from Nippon Paint:

1. Milano
A low-key luxurious interior design fits the taste of an elegant person like you. The special velvety texture comes with a total of 30 colours through three series, one of them can surely fit you. Milano velvet gold has a total of 8 colours, perfectly matches gold with warm colours, combining them with unique light and shadow effects adds a touch of delicacy to your home; Velvet gold white has 11 colours, turn your home into a contemporary and modern style home by presenting with the luster of pearl; Velvet silver mixes cold colours with silver’s luster, the paint’s smoothness getting matched by the metallic feel, makes your home elegant but not pompous. No matter how you want your home to be and which route of interior design you are going for, Milano can take your design to another level.

2. Nippe Indy Art Cera
Is there a time when you want to get some different textures and patterns onto your wall but normal paints just cannot get the job done? Nippe Indy Art Cera is the paint you’re looking for! Pairing Nippe Indy Art Cera with its tools, you can create numerous of different patterns such as rough, line, flat, clod while blending multiple colours to create even more incredible changes. If you think out of the box, you might also create a pattern that no one else has ever done before. No matter which style of interior design you are trying to match, Nippe Indy Art Cera can provide you a pattern that best fits it, makes your home truly unique.

3. Fair-Faced Concrete Coating System
If you like your home being simple and natural, you might want to try out having a fair-faced concrete wall at your home. Fair-faced concrete has natural patterns and does not require any additional decoration, provides a fresh and neat feeling. However, a fair-faced concrete wall’s price is pretty high while also requires high skilled decorator to make it work. If any mistakes happen or the fair-faced concrete got damaged, rebuilding one or replacing one would be another time consuming project that could take weeks. That’s why Nippon Paint introduces a fair-faced concrete coating system where you can paint on basically any wall textures and get the appearance of an actual fair-faced concrete wall! Nippon Paint fair-faced concrete coating system requires much less time and money investment to create the same pattern of a fair-faced concrete wall, it is also much easier to repair and refresh the wall if needed. If you want to try a minimalistic design style that features a fair-faced concrete wall while budget being a problem, maybe give Nippon Paint fair-faced concrete coating system a shot, it might just exceed your expectations.

Learn more about the creative paints here:

Whenever we talk about interior decorations or moving to a new place, people would suddenly recall things about formaldehyde. With all the new furniture, paint, polystyrene floods into our new home, we stand up against all the formaldehyde trying to get every single bit of them out of our home as if we are a formaldehyde exterminator. It is a fact that formaldehyde is harmful to our health, it irritates our eyes, nose and throat, affects pulmonary function and causes various respiratory disease, and could cause fetal malformation and miscarriage. It is also labelled as a Group 1 carcinogen by the WHO. We have more than enough reasons to get rid of every single bit of formaldehyde, and people do everything trying to get them out of their home. Some chooses “E0” graded materials for their furniture, some tries to eliminate formaldehyde by using formaldehyde remove sprays, air purifier and activated charcoal. Some even uses folk remedy like placing pineapple or onion skins to “lower the concentration of formaldehyde”. However, are these what you really need for a “formaldehyde-free” home?

In fact, construction materials and furniture from renovation are not the only source of formaldehyde, some of our daily tools and products also contain and emit formaldehyde such as detergents, cosmetics, insecticides, dishwashing liquids, clothes and bed linens. At the meantime, construction materials will keep on emitting formaldehyde for 3-15 years. Therefore, we should not be short-sighted and only aim for low formaldehyde level or low odour after a couple months of moving in or decorating.

The “E0” material doesn’t mean they are completely formaldehyde-free. Instead, they emit very low level of formaldehyde, being 0.5mg/L. Although the number is very small, overusing them could still lead to exceeding formaldehyde limit. Moreover, as formaldehyde has adhering, moisture-proof, insect-proof and other functions, using nearly 0 formaldehyde materials might require additional adhesives and insect-resist agents, ended up re-introducing the missing formaldehyde from the “E0” materials back to your home.

Now let’s talk about methods to remove formaldehyde. Simply using formaldehyde remove sprays to clean you home after decorating for a month or two cannot protect your health in the long run. Again, building materials emits formaldehyde for 3-15 years. However, it is also unrealistic to keep spraying formaldehyde remove sprays for the whole period of 3 years. Even if the cost is not your concern, all the effort to spray it constantly is already troublesome enough to make it not worth doing. Although activated charcoal can actually absorb formaldehyde and keep them stick to the charcoal instead of floating in the air and let you breathe them in, they can only absorb but not actually remove formaldehyde while also have a max absorbing capacity. Once the activated charcoal is full for a while and were not disposed and replaced in time, they will release the formaldehyde back to the area, losing its functionality and also worsen the situation. Despite air purifier can effectively purify formaldehyde, the price of a high Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR) and Cumulate Clean Mass (CCM) is nothing to joke at already. Factoring in the electricity cost, the cost of installing a decent air purifier could be significant in the long run. However, if you want to cut some initial cost by choosing a slightly lower tier air purifier, there might come with a long term cost of having to change the air filter element more frequently due to lower CCM, costing the same if not more than a high tier air purifier in the long run. When all of these effective ways also brings us some sort of trouble and extra costs, there is actually a formaldehyde eliminating method that doesn’t require any additional installation or costs after renovating.

Nippon Paint have series of paints that can abate formaldehyde for you 24/7, for example the Nippon Paint Gold Formaldehyde-Buster Odour-less All-in-1(Bamboo Charcoal technology). All you have to do is choose this as your paint for renovation, and our paint can decrease the level of formaldehyde for you once it is painted onto your wall with no additional care needed as long as the paint is not significantly damaged. Nippon Paint also take a step forward in keeping you healthy. Nippon Paint Gold Formaldehyde-Buster Odour-less All-in-1(Bamboo Charcoal technology) not only can lower the formaldehyde level but also have an anti-bacterium function. If you’re wondering would all the functionality restricts the colour choices for the paint, you don’t have to worry about that! Nippon Paint Gold Formaldehyde-Buster Odour-less All-in-1(Bamboo Charcoal technology) supports Computerized Colour Matching Service which provides 1988 colour choice, truly an aesthetic and functional paint of your choice.

Learn more about Nippon Paint Gold Formaldehyde-Buster Odour-less All-in-1(Bamboo Charcoal technology):

Many people think that renovating your walls means painting the wall. However, there’s actually many more construction details behind it. When we decorate the wall of the unit, we often find that the wall is uneven and blistered. At this time, we need to remove these loose parts, and then use the batch of wall ash to build a good wall base and strengthen the wall. Stability and fixity. So as to make the wall smooth and flawless, just like the reason why girls also apply primer before makeup. So choosing a high-quality batch of wall plaster is also a science.
1. What are the approved wall plasters on the market?
Painters traditionally mixes raw materials such as vegetable glue, whitening powder, gypsum powder, varnish and white glue to make batches of wall plaster by themselves. Although it is relatively cheaper, crafting your own plaster requires certain skills and technique, while having lower stability which could cause uneven end product. Moreover, the materials used also emit unpleasant smell. Therefore, Nippon Paint encourages you to use ready-made plasters. Nippon Paint Odour-less Wall Putty works as good as traditional plasters while being odour-less and eco-friendly. You also don’t have to spend time mixing materials and keep adjusting the plaster to get a perfect plaster, Nippon did all that for you.
2. What are the problems with vegetable gum powder in the market?
Vegetable glue powder not only requires a lot of effort to prepare, as it contains plant fiber extracted from seaweeds, it could also easily cause mold on the wall!
3. How to perfect Plastering?
Plastering can be divided into three steps:
1. Ashes
2. Applying Plaster
3. Polish
Putting ash is actually filling up some uneven walls with large gaps to make them smooth, and adding batches of wall ash to increase their stability. The next step is to apply the plaster to make the surface of the wall smoother and smoother. Through repeated plastering actions, the smooth effect can be achieved. However, the plastering should not be too hasty and can be applied all at once. It is necessary to wait for each layer of plastering to dry before applying plaster again. Otherwise, cracks will appear on the wall, and if you apply too much too quickly, the natural absorption will be uneven, so remember not to be too quick and too thick at once. The last step is polishing, mainly to sweep away the excess dust on the wall and make the overall wall smoother and smoother. Polishing also needs to be repeated many times to make the pine paint more full and smooth. As for the grinding tool, you can choose Nippon Sponge Sand Brick with high-density sponge, electrostatic sand planting process, parallelogram design, easy to grind at the corners, good elasticity, durability, not easy to remove sand, and can be reused after cleaning.
4. Things to note about special weather
The wall has been severely eroded by the accumulation of precipitation over time. In addition to the problem of time, there are also reasons for the climate. Because the climate in Hong Kong is often humid, and the housing environment and structural problems in Hong Kong are quite special, the sunlight cannot fully shine into the house, which makes the problem of humidity in the house gradually serious. In addition to re-cleaning the dust, the best way is to take good ventilation measures, for example: opening the windows to allow air convection, which can effectively eliminate the humid molecules mixed in the air. Or some special weather, such as the weather after rain or the rainy season that is prone to mold, you need to pay attention when these weathers occur. Residents with dehumidifiers can use dehumidifiers to strengthen the elimination of moisture in the house. Content, fully keep the room in a state of constant temperature, dryness and humidity.
5. Handling of special situations
Residents may encounter some serious wall problems. For example, the wall has been aged for more than 10 years, and a large area of the wall has been severely affected by moisture. Carry out a major renovation, and redo it together with the paint and dust on the wall. You don’t have to worry about this cumbersome project, because Nippon Paint has launched a refresh service for homeowners who need major renovations to help them solve the problem. All the problems encountered in the renovation do not need to be done by the customer at all. Nippon Paint provides one-stop service, and also provides a variety of renovation cases for customers to refer to, so that everyone can have a general understanding of the renovation, and then a series of renovations will be introduced Process, answer customers’ doubts, strive to achieve excellence, and provide residents with a perfect and comfortable living environment.

Learn more about Nippon Paint Odour-less Wall Putty:

Formaldehyde is the most resistant to many people who have just moved into a new home. Everyone does not want formaldehyde to enter their house, and even starts to worry about it, but is it really the case? Is formaldehyde really so frightening? Let’s follow Nippon Paint to learn about formaldehyde in decoration!
What points should be paid attention to in formaldehyde in decoration?
1. Short-term exposure to low-level formaldehyde will not cause too much harm to humans. Of course, it will also pose a certain threat to some people who are allergic to formaldehyde. For example, it will cause discomfort symptoms on the eyes and throat. Including respiratory patients, pregnant women or children, etc. need special attention. Because formaldehyde is an irritating gas, the antibodies to patients, pregnant women or children are lower than ordinary people, so they are prone to discomfort symptoms.
2. In fact, formaldehyde also has its measurement standards. The World Health Organization has pointed out that formaldehyde concentrations below 0.08ppm (0.1 mg/m³) are relatively safe for humans. Therefore, the higher the concentration of formaldehyde, the greater the harm. 0.08 ppm (0.1 mg/m³) is an acceptable upper limit for indoor formaldehyde concentrations in most countries. The country also has stated “Indoor Air Quality Standards”, in the indoor air environment, the maximum allowable concentration of formaldehyde per 1 hour is 0.1 mg per cubic meter.
3. In fact, formaldehyde is not only released from fresh paint, but also part of the formaldehyde is released from the furniture in the house. It is basically impossible to use zero-formaldehyde furniture. Because almost all furniture is composed of sheets, some adhesives and other tools. While these materials release formaldehyde, so does the wood used for wood products.
4. Many people read on the Internet that using grapefruit peels can absorb formaldehyde. They will place grapefruit peels in various places in the house. But in fact, grapefruit peel is only because of its own aroma, which covers the odor of formaldehyde, rather than decomposing and absorbing formaldehyde itself. Therefore, removing formaldehyde from grapefruit peels is completely unscientific.
5. The most effective way to reduce formaldehyde is actually not to buy any equipment. This process can completely eliminate formaldehyde in your home for free, that is, ventilation. The volume between air and formaldehyde is the same, and formaldehyde is easily mixed in the air, so we use this to take formaldehyde away through air circulation and discharge it into the house. Not only that, in addition to emitting formaldehyde, ventilation can also reduce other volatile indoor pollutants such as benzene and xylene. Ventilation can be regarded as one of the most efficient and environmentally friendly ways to eliminate formaldehyde.
6. In fact, Nippon Paint has also launched some formaldehyde-resistant indoor latex paints for you to choose from. Because we know that many residents will value the elimination of formaldehyde, so in order to ensure the safety of everyone’s living and living environment, both adults and children have their own exclusive anti-formaldehyde latex paint. If you are planning to decorate a new house, you can consider using Nippon Paint’s formaldehyde-resistant indoor latex paint, so that Nippon Paint can create a comfortable and secure living environment for you and your family.
Click to check out some of the products that can abate formaldehyde:

I believe that everyone has a certain understanding of formaldehyde, but you should not know what other toxic gases are other than formaldehyde. Today we will point out 5 chemical pollutants lurking around our lives, and they are derived from our An invisible virus released from the living environment.
5 invisible chemical pollutants
1. Formaldehyde: There are five main sources, the first is from some decorative panel materials indoors; the second is water-based adhesives with formaldehyde as the main component; the third is waterproofing agents and flame retardants used in building materials , preservatives, insect repellants and other water-based treatment agents; the fourth is derived from various decorative materials, such as wallpapers, carpets, foam plastics and paints; the fifth is derived from the necessities used in daily life at home , such as cosmetics, detergents, insecticides, etc. Formaldehyde appears quietly in our daily life. According to scientific research, the release period of formaldehyde is as long as 3 to 15 years. For the formaldehyde in newly renovated units, it cannot be completely eliminated in one or two years. evaporate.
2. Nitrogen oxides: Nitrogen oxides are easily produced from human daily life. For example, gas stoves used for cooking usually produce nitrogen oxides from combustion. In addition, if the resident has the habit of smoking, nitrogen oxides will also be produced during the smoking process. If you inhale too much, symptoms such as throat discomfort will appear, not only that, but it can even pose a threat to the central nervous system and cardiovascular system of the human body.
3. Ammonia: Additives and brighteners are used in many home finishes, and ammonia is added to these chemicals. When these products are used on the wall, as the temperature or environmental factors change, they will be converted into ammonia gas and released from the wall. Ammonia gas is also an irritating and harmful gas, which is irritating to the mucous membranes such as the eyes, nose, and throat of the human body, and this irritating gas will lead to a decrease in the body’s resistance to other diseases.
4. Carbon monoxide: Carbon monoxide and nitrogen oxides are the same type of poisonous gas. Its source is also the same as nitrogen oxides, both from daily gas use. Combustion of gas or oil produces large amounts of carbon monoxide. When the human body inhales a light amount of carbon monoxide, symptoms such as dizziness and weakness of limbs may occur. Inhalation of large amounts of carbon monoxide can directly lead to a severe coma state.
5. Radon: Radon mainly comes from carcinogenic and toxic gases released from flooring, tiles and other ground materials. According to scientific research, the radiation damage of radon to the human body accounts for more than 55% of all radiation damage received by the human body in a lifetime. It is a “latent killer” of lung cancer and the second most carcinogenic substance besides smoking. The gas radon is also colorless and odorless. Even if the concentration of radon in the environment is high, people cannot find it. The damage caused by radon to the human body is permanent, so choose carefully when choosing home decoration.
Nippon Paint’s Kids Paint series contain nearly 0 VOC, it can also abate and break down formaldehyde into water molecules. Not only it won’t pollute your home but it can also protect you from the harm of formaldehyde. Click the links below to see more about the Kids Paint series:

“Village house”, as the name suggests, is “a house in a rural area”, with a beautiful environment, surrounded by mountains, and the fragrance of birds and flowers. It really makes people want to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city and come here to enjoy the healing brought by nature. But residents living in “village houses” are all worried about the same problem, which is the problem of indoor “water seepage”.
How did the “water seepage” problem arise?
Everyone may have doubts about the issue of “water seepage”. Where does “water” come from? In fact, not only the appearance of people needs to be maintained, but the appearance of houses also needs to be adequately maintained, especially for independent houses like village houses. The outer wall of a village house protects the “inner organs” of the village house like armor. If there is a crack in the armor, the “inner organs” will naturally be damaged. Exposure to the sun and rain, cooling and heat shrinkage will lead to conspicuous cracks on the wall, and these cracks are behind the scenes that cause the problem of “water seepage” in the room. If not dealt with in time, rainwater will accelerate the corrosion of the health of the wall.
How to solve the “water seepage” problem?
If you are facing the “water seepage” problem, or worried that the “water seepage” problem will come to your door, Nippon Paint can help you! Nippon Paint puts itself in the shoes of every citizen and conducts research on housing issues.
For customers who already have the problem of “water seepage”, we recommend Nippon Paint’s water-cut leak-proof combination on the roof. Nippon Paint Water-based Soft Fiber Waterproof Roof can fill the cracks in the ground and walls, and can effectively block water. Partial penetration, to achieve a comprehensive waterproof effect. And it has good hiding power, and can easily finish a beautiful waterproof coating surface. With Nippon Paint Water-based Waterproof Primer，it is very suitable for professional construction or DIY!
For customers who want to renovate the exterior wall or paint the exterior wall for the first time, Nippon Paint recommends Nippon Paint Weatherbond, which has strong outdoor durability and is specially designed for indoor and outdoor masonry The surface of the building is formulated to withstand the sun and rain, ensuring a long-term beautiful appearance. In terms of function, it also has anti-algae, waterproof, anti-fouling, anti-alkali and anti-mildew, which can solve the problems that customers worry about.

Learn more about Nippon Paint Water-based Soft Fiber Waterproof Roof:

The Causes and Treatment of Chalking in Village Houses
The “village house” is in the midst of nature, away from the noisy city, and integrated with nature. Some people think that living in such a beautiful place must be very pleasant. However, with the passage of time, the exterior walls of the house will inevitably suffer from years of damage, such as excessive exposure to sunlight for a long time, or damage to the walls caused by improper paint selection, and so on. Damaged walls will greatly reduce the overall aesthetics of the house, which will greatly reduce the mood of the homeowner when he sees it. What Is Chalking?
Chalking refers to the fact that the latex paint film attached to the wall loses its original gloss, resulting in a layer of powder on the surface of the wall. Over time, these powders will gradually fall off the wall. Not only will it affect the aesthetics of the wall, but the falling dust will also cause a great potential crisis to the air quality in the house.
What is the cause?
All dark exterior wall paints will directly affect the durability of the wall, because dark colors will absorb more heat and ultraviolet rays than light colors. After a long period of wind and sun, dark exterior walls will absorb excessive heat and Ultraviolet rays, resulting in chalking, which is the object produced by the degradation of the binder in the paint. Or when the paint was painted, the recommended thickness of the oil was not paid attention to. If it is deeper or thinner than the recommended thickness, it will also lead to insufficient protection, which will cause various problems on the wall.
How to avoid and solve it?
Nippon Paint suggests that if the exterior wall paint has chalked up, it is best to renovate it. Choosing a primer is the most critical step. Nippon Paint recommends that you use the Nippon Paint Multi-Function Water-Based Waterproof Kit: Nippon Paint Ultra Sealer III (Exterior) and Nippon Paint Tsuya Ichiban Water Based Gloss Top Coat. Both are waterproof and have good weather resistance. No matter it is any long-term wind and rain, they can be as stable as Mount Tai and stand upright. Nippon Paint Ultra Sealer III (Exterior) Also has excellent efflorescence resistance that can also prevent discolouration. Choosing high quality paints is the best way to protect the health of your walls most effectively, learn more about the paint here:

Wall Problem Tips – Wall Blisters

When painting a wall, there are many factors that affect the final result, leading to all kinds of problems. One of the most common problems is blistering.

The phenomenon of wall blistering: bubbles are generated in the paint film, resulting in a decrease in local adhesion. There are many possible reasons for this to happen, here are the most relevant and common:
– Substrate humidity is too high
– Paint on soiled or decayed substrates
– Paint on overheated substrates or expose to direct sunlight
– poor working or drying conditions (e.g. high humidity, condensation, rain)
*TIP: Break the blisters and check the underside of the flakes. If wood is present, the problem is most likely moisture related.

It is not difficult to solve the blistering on the wall. First, confirm the cause of the problem and evaluate the degree of the problem. Then address the cause, strip off the old paint, make sure the substrate is in place and repaint. Be aware that some substrates are too damaged to be repaired and will need to be replaced.
 
Tips for Wall Problems – Oil Sweep / Oil Roller Marks

After the paint has been applied, there are streaks left on the wall after drying, which is an unintentional texture left in the paint by the oil brush or reel. The main cause of oil swept/reel marks is due to the use of low quality/incorrect tools to paint, or due to poor workmanship (e.g. too fast or too much painting). The second is partially dried paint due to heavy brushing or rerolling, as well as objective factors of poor workmanship or the environment at the time of drying, such as overheating of the substrate and high temperature.

Don’t worry if you find oil brushes/oil roll marks, lightly sand the affected area until smooth and repaint. To prevent the same problem from recurring, make sure to use high quality and recommended tooling equipment, use consistent painting techniques (such as applying oil reel pressure evenly from top to bottom) while keeping the edges wet. Make sure the workmanship and drying conditions are in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations so that there will be no oil swept/reel marks. Also, in hot or windy conditions, the recommended amount of thinner can be added to improve workmanship.
 
Wall Problem Tips – Wall Powder

Chalking is one of the common problems with walls. As the name implies, the powder on the surface of the paint film is produced by the degradation of the paint binder.

The main reasons for chalking come from excessive exposure to sunlight and improper use of paint. E.g:
– Use interior grade paint on surfaces exposed to UV radiation.
– Surfaces where the painted surface has been fully exposed to strong sunlight for a prolonged period of time, and/or has an elevated salt concentration (eg coastal areas).
– Use dark paint, which absorbs more heat and UV rays from sunlight than lighter colors.
– Paint lighter than recommended thickness.

If the walls have begun to chalk, your best bet is to renovate. Wash the affected area to remove all surface contamination and powder, and repaint with a UV-resistant paint system. Remember to use a primer, which can resist corrosion, increase the adhesion of the topcoat, and make the paint not easy to peel off. When painting, make sure to apply the paint to the recommended coverage and add the proper proportion of water as recommended by the manufacturer, never over-diluting.

To minimize chalking in areas with high sunlight, it is recommended to have a maintenance schedule in place from the outset to ensure that the painted surfaces are cleaned and repainted within a predetermined time.

Need a professional to fix your wall? Nippon Refresh Service is your best choice! Click the link below and make an appointment now:

According to Porter’s Paints: paint problem solver & advice

generate bubbles
Air bubbles are created in the paint film, resulting in a localized loss of adhesion.
possible reason
– Substrate humidity is too high
– Paint on soiled or decayed substrates
– Paint on overheated substrates or expose to direct sunlight
– poor working or drying conditions (e.g. high humidity, condensation, rain)
solution
– Identify the cause and extent of the problem. Resolve the cause, strip off the old paint, make sure the substrate is properly repainted. (Some substrates are too damaged to be repaired, such due to replacement)

block
The surfaces of two freshly painted objects are glued together (eg a window is glued to a frame).
possible reason
– Close doors and windows before paint dries.
– poor working or drying conditions (e.g. low temperature, high humidity, condensation, rain)
solution
– Sand to remove affected area, repaint after ensuring proper substrate.
– Provide correct drying time according to paint label recommendations.
– Make sure the workmanship and drying conditions are in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations.

Oil sweep/oil reel marks
Unintentional texture left in paint by an oil sweep or reel.
possible reason
– Painted with low quality/incorrect tools.
– Poor workmanship (eg too fast or too much paint).
– Repaint or reroll partially dried paint.
– poor working or drying conditions (e.g. overheated substrate, high temperature)
solution
– Lightly sand affected area until smooth, repaint
– Use consistent painting techniques (such as applying oil reel pressure evenly from top to bottom) while keeping the edges wet.
– Make sure to use high quality and recommended tools and equipment.
– Make sure the workmanship and drying conditions are in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations.
– In hot or windy conditions, the recommended amount of thinner can be added to improve workmanship.

chalk
Powder on the surface of the paint film, produced by the degradation of the paint binder.
possible reason
– Use interior grade paint on surfaces exposed to UV radiation.
– Surfaces where the painted surface has been fully exposed to strong sunlight for a prolonged period of time, and/or has an elevated salt concentration (eg coastal areas).
– Use dark paint, which absorbs more heat and UV rays from sunlight than lighter colors.
– Paint lighter than recommended thickness.
solution
– Wash the affected area, remove all surface contamination and powder, and repaint with a UV-resistant paint system.
– Make sure to paint to the recommended coverage.
– To minimise chalking, have a maintenance schedule in place from the outset to ensure that painted surfaces are cleaned and repainted within scheduled times.

weathering
The salt migrates to the surface of the porous masonry substrate, forming a white scabbed deposit.
possible reason
– Excessive moisture in the substrate
– Paint on under-cured substrates.
solution
– Use a stiff brush to remove deposits, then clean the surface with a mild white vinegar solution (acetic acid). In severe cases, a stronger acid solution should be used by an experienced contractor to remove mineral salts and then allowed to dry.
– Identify and eliminate the source of moisture and repaint once the surface is intact, clean, dry and free of mold and algae. Alkali-resistant sealants and a suitable topcoat are recommended.

fade
Excessive tarnishing of the paint coat.
possible reason
– Use interior grade paint on surfaces exposed to UV radiation.
– The painted surface is exposed to high salinity (e.g. coastal areas).
– Colors such as bright blue, yellow, red are particularly susceptible to UV radiation.
– Add a colorant higher than the recommended coloring level.
– The paint film used is lower than the recommended thickness.
solution
– Thoroughly clean the affected area, remove all surface contamination and repaint.
– Use manufacturer-approved UV-resistant paint products and coating systems.
– Make sure to paint to the recommended coverage.
– To minimise fading, have a maintenance schedule in place from the outset to ensure that the painted surfaces are cleaned and repainted within the scheduled time.

foaming/foaming
Air bubbles formed during application and pits created when air bubbles burst in the paint film.
possible reason
– Painting with improper tools (eg oil reel fuzz length, material type).
– Poor workmanship (eg too fast or too much paint).
– Over-mix the product before use.
– Paint with old and/or improperly stored paint.
solution
– Make sure to use the correct application equipment and technology. If you notice excessive foaming in the can, allow the paint to settle before using.
– Correct foam in dry paint film, lightly sand affected area to a smooth surface and repaint. In some instances, lather in the wet film can be corrected by light application with a brush.

wear and tear
When the painted surface is worn or impacted, visible shiny spots or areas of polishing can appear.
possible reason
– Use low-gloss, matte and flat paint in heavy tones (dark or vivid), especially in high-traffic areas
– Fang.
– Frequent cleaning and/or spot cleaning, especially with abrasive cleaners or tools (wire balls).
– Unintentional bumps on painted surfaces (eg furniture rubbing coatings).
– Critical or low angle lighting may accentuate any worn look that has a chance.
solution
– Repaint with higher gloss or lighter color paint.
– In some instances, a durable clear coat may be recommended.

mold
Black, grey, brown spots on the painted surface.
possible reason
– Presence of moisture (condensation in the substrate, surface or high humidity).
– Paint on moldy substrates.
*TIP: Test for mold by putting a few drops of household bleach on the discolored area; if it disappears, it’s likely mold.
solution
– To get rid of mold, scrub the surface with a diluted household bleach solution (one part bleach, three parts water) while wearing rubber gloves and goggles. Rinse thoroughly.
– To prevent mold, use paint with anti-mold properties.

crack
Deep, irregular cracks in the dry paint film.
possible reason
– Applying too much paint causes the surface of the paint film to dry faster than the rest (most commonly where paint can overlap, such as corners).
– Poor working or drying conditions (e.g. too cold substrate, too low temperature).
solution
– Sand the surface flat and repaint at the recommended coverage.
– In some instances, oil-based primers or high-concentration products may be required.
– Ensure application and drying conditions comply with manufacturer’s recommendations

Rusty nail head
Red/brown rust on painted surfaces.
possible reason
– Paint on ungalvanized iron nails, which tend to rust in wet environments.
– Paint on galvanized nail heads that have started to rust from sanding or excessive weathering.
solution
– Wash off rust, sand nail heads, and follow new construction finishing procedures.
– When painting new exterior construction, if non-galvanized nails are used, it is advisable to countersink the nail head first and then caulk with a good quality exterior acrylic caulk.
– Each nail head area should be topically primed (preferably with an antifouling primer) followed by a good quality topcoat.

patch
Poor gloss or color uniformity, especially when looking flat from an angle.
possible reason
– Paint on surfaces with different textures and uneven porosity (joints between plasterboards).
– Failure to properly prime the substrate.
– Inconsistent workmanship
– Bad working or drying conditions (eg high temperature, high temperature).
solution
– Before applying the topcoat, the new substrate should be treated to ensure uniform porosity of the substrate.
– Use consistent painting techniques (such as applying oil reel pressure evenly from top to bottom) while keeping the edges wet.
– Make sure the workmanship and drying conditions are in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations.

Cracking and peeling
The paint film forms a definite fracture, the local adhesion between the paint film and the substrate is lost, or the paint film is completely separated from the surface substrate.
possible reason
– Paint on unsound substrates (e.g. weathered wood, weak concrete or plaster)
– Paint on soiled or loose materials.
– Paint on overly smooth surfaces that are difficult to bond.
– No precoat (primer) used, poor quality or the wrong type for the substrate.
– Lack of maintenance of existing paint
solution
– Before starting any new paint, the extent and cause of the problem needs to be clearly identified, the cause removed, and the old paint stripped until the substrate is sound.

framing
A matter of appearance, areas where you paint with an oil brush look brighter or darker than areas where you use an oil reel.
possible reason
– Apply wet paint on dry or semi-dry areas
– Differences in gloss and/or surface texture due to different workmanship between oil brushes and oil reels.
– Inadequate mixing of paint prior to application, resulting in poor toner incorporation.
-Brushing may result in lower coverage than rolling, creating a thicker film, which can lead to differences in color/opacity.
solution
– Stir paint thoroughly before use.
– Work on a smaller area of ​​the room to keep the edges wet, and use the oil reel to overlap as much as possible over where the oil sweep is used.

poor opacity
Dry paint fails to mask or coat the underlying surface.
possible reason
– Paint at higher than recommended coverage.
– Painting with low quality/incorrect construction tools.
– Use of inappropriate tinting bases and tinting color combinations.
– Adding a small amount of yellow, ochre or bright red to a white substrate will lower the refractive index and thus adversely affect opacity.
solution
– Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for coverage.
– Use premium paint for better coverage and flow.
– Use quality tools and recommended oil reels.
– Use the correct base for the specified color.
– Choosing a color that contains black and/or blue tones will provide excellent opacity, even with some yellow or red colorants present.
Certain colors may require more than two coats of topcoat or the use of a tinted primer, especially when painting over dark colors.

Poor washability
Dry paint does not resist dirt and stains
possible reason
– Use paint with poor stain resistance.
– Paint at higher than recommended coverage.
– Paint over unprimed substrate.
solution
– Use manufacturer-approved antifouling paint products.
– Make sure the paint is applied to the appropriate primed substrate at the recommended coverage.
Tip: The most common stains can be removed from the antifouling paint with a soft damp cloth. For stubborn stains, a damp cloth and household cleaner are recommended. Some stubborn stains that can penetrate paint coats will require repainting with a suitable antifouling primer and antifouling topcoat.

sagging
The phenomenon that the paint film sags immediately after painting.
possible reason
– Too much paint on the surface.
– The viscosity of the paint applied is too low.
– poor working or drying conditions (e.g. cold substrate, too low temperature, too high humidity)
solution
– If paint is still damp, brush off immediately or reroll to redistribute excess paint evenly.
– If the paint is dry, sand and reapply a fresh coat of paint at the recommended coverage.
– Do not over thin the paint.
– Ensure that the conditions of work and drying are in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations.

Surfactant leaching
Soapy, sticky, shiny spots or streaks on newly painted surfaces, usually within the first few weeks after painting.
possible reason
– Poor working or drying conditions (eg low temperature, high humidity, condensation, rain).
– Add a colorant higher than the recommended coloring level.
solution
– On façades, the leaching of surfactants usually disappears within a short period of time without intervention. Rinsing with fresh water will help wash it off.
– On interior walls, leaching of surfactants can be easily cleaned with a mild soap solution, soft cloth or sponge, then rinsed thoroughly with clean water.
– Ensure that the conditions of work and drying are in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations.

Tannin spots
Brown or tan discoloration on painted surfaces, most commonly found in knots in some types of wood.
possible reason
– Use paints with poor antifouling properties.
– Excessive moisture in the substrate.
– Poor working or drying conditions (eg low temperature, high humidity, condensation, rain).
solution
– Identify and eliminate sources of moisture and reapply an antifouling primer or topcoat when the surface is well clean.
– Ensure that the conditions of work and drying are in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations.

Enamel turns yellow
Evolution of yellow discoloration in alkyd enamels.
possible reason
– Lack of natural light (eg behind picture frames, inside closets and sliding cavity doors).
– Presence of ammonia (commonly found in household paints and cleaners) during workmanship and maintenance.
solution
– Ensure good ventilation during work and maintenance.
– Allow as much natural light as possible into the painted areas during and after work.
– To minimize the “yellowing” effect during drying, all traditional water-based primers and topcoats should be applied first and allowed to cure for up to two weeks (longer if cold) before starting the enamel job, vice versa.
– Use high-quality water-based paints instead of solvent-based paints.

Nippon Refresh Service provides you a comprehensive one-stop shop service, solving all of your painting problems.
Make a Refresh Service booking now:

Many people do not understand what is the use of paint? When do you need paint? Are primers and topcoats necessary?

Paint is a fluid that, after coating the surface of a substrate, dries into a continuous solid film. This is the most concise definition of paint, and depending on the type of paint, can provide one or more functions, such as decorative, protective, special functions.
– Decorative: The colour, relief texture, finish and gloss level of the lacquer provide a decorative effect.
– Protective: Different lacquers provide protection for different types of substrates. Including resistance to high humidity, chemicals, oils, corrosion, algae growth and abrasion.
– Special uses: Paints can also be formulated for special uses. For example, fluorescent paint for signs, anti-condensation paint, flame retardant paint, cathodic electrophoretic paint, etc.

In most paint systems, two or more coatings with different functions are used. Among them, primer and topcoat are both necessary.
– Primer: The first coat in a paint system, applied on lacquer metal and wood. The role of the primer is to increase the adhesion of the topcoat, make the paint less prone to peeling, prevent the paint from being absorbed through the perforated surface, and also make the metal surface resistant to corrosion.
– Topcoat: The final coating in a paint system that has a decorative function such as color, gloss or embossed texture. The topcoat used outdoors needs some special ingredients to resist environmental damage due to the harsher environmental factors, such as UV exposure, chemical corrosion environment, seawater, algae and fungi.

One of the most important determining factors when choosing a paint is the type of substrate. Commonly painted substrates are wood, metal, non-ferrous metals, cement mortar and concrete surfaces, brick. Depending on the substrate, make appropriate paint choices. For example, cement mortar and concrete surfaces are suitable for acrylic latex paint due to the characteristics of heavy moisture, and the humidity of the substrate should not exceed 6% before painting; wood fiber density and volume will change due to climate reasons, making the surface adhesion The strength decreases with time, so it is suitable to use a solvent-based paint with good penetration to improve adhesion and durability.

With the advancement of technology, in addition to the basic decoration and the protection function of the substrate, the current topcoat has the protection function developed for different environments. Such as waterproof, anti-exposure, anti-alkali anti-mold, anti-carbonic acid, anti-formaldehyde, and even anti-virus. Choosing a high-quality finish, which is both decorative and functional, has become an indispensable part of improving the quality of life.

Here is a paint with special features recommended for you:

How to solve the pungent / choking smell of the new house

The pungent smell is one of the first problems residents encounter and most want to solve every time they move in/in a new house. Whether it is renovation or renovation, it will produce unpleasant smell. These pungent odors, ranging from unpleasant to disgusting, greatly diminish the joy and happiness of a new home.

The main source of odors in new homes is VOCs (volatile organic compounds). VOCs contain a variety of organic compounds that are volatile at room temperature and are often found in a wide variety of everyday products such as solvent-based coatings, adhesives, sealants, printing inks, organic solvents, and petroleum products. In interior decoration projects, VOCs mainly come from paints, coatings and adhesives, and the content of general paints is 30 to 70 grams per liter. However, volatile organic compounds are highly volatile, generally 90% volatilized within 10 hours after paint application.

Prolonged exposure to VOCs can cause acute or chronic health effects. Sufficient concentrations of VOCs can cause eye, nose, and throat discomfort, and even headaches, dizziness, vision disturbances, and a variety of other injuries. Among them, the most important and most harmful is formaldehyde, which has been listed as a human carcinogen.

The cause of the problem may be from:
● Poor ventilation and insufficient fresh air.
● Recently renovated.
● Recently added new furniture.
● VOCs emitted from sources such as renovation works, chemical storage sites or printing factories nearby are dissipated through the ventilation system.
● Frequent use of products that emit high VOCs, such as cleaners, pressed wood furniture, pesticides, fragrance products, etc.
● Dry-cleaned clothes are not sufficiently breathable.

Ways to reduce and avoid exposure to VOCs:
● Maintain air circulation and confirm that there are ventilation facilities at the source of VOCs.
● Choose furniture that releases less formaldehyde and VOCs, and try to avoid using pressed wood furniture without covering.
● It is recommended to put new furniture outside for a few days before entering it indoors to allow it to breathe. Move in new furniture days before you move in.
● Hire professional formaldehyde removal service.
● Arrange for decoration work during the vacant time period.
● Dispose of paints, adhesives, cleaners and other products in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions, and avoid using products containing VOCs in sealed areas.
● For products with low VOCs, the manufacturer can be requested to provide relevant emission information. Such as Nippon Paint.

As the largest paint manufacturer in Asia, Nippon Paint attaches great importance to environmental protection and sustainable development. Its paint products not only have excellent deodorizing effect and achieve ultra-low VOC indicators, but also adopt the unique technology of “decomposing formaldehyde” developed for many years. For example, in Nippon Paint for Children, the content of VOCs is less than 10 grams per liter.

The use of the interior wall latex paint of the Nippon Pure Smell series as the wall coating of the new house can effectively improve the pungent feeling brought by the new house. The formaldehyde molecules floating in the air generated by decoration and furniture will be decomposed into non-toxic and harmless water molecules by Nippon Paint, thus effectively reducing the indoor formaldehyde content.

Click the links below to know more about odour-less paints:

Nippon Paint has thousands of colors to choose from. In addition to dozens of standard colors, there are 1988 fantasy colors. If you feel that there is no favorite object in the standard colors, and the 1988 fantasy thousands of colors are dizzying, then please let Xiaosheng help you choose and choose.

If you are a minimalist who likes white, in addition to the very popular “Ivory White” and “Pearl White”, you can try “Yuqing” which is relatively clear and cool. But if a slightly warmer color system can bring you more peace of mind, “Bing Qing Yu Tou” with a powder in the white, or “Silk White”, “Gardenia” and “Melting Snow” with a faint yellow hidden in the white, It can add a touch of warmth to the minimalist style.
– Ivory (OW038-4)
– Pearl White (OW033-4)
– Yuqing (OW044-4)
– Bing Qing Yu Tou (OW015-4)
– Silk White (YC0015-4)
– Gardenia (YV0030-4)
– Snow Melting (YC0015-4)
If you yearn for nature, why not bring a touch of green into your home. “Pure Green”, although it sounds mundane, has depth and is not too heavy. It makes people feel relaxed and happy after watching it for a long time. Isn’t it like nature? Beneath the bland exterior is a vibrant, powerful energy that nurtures all things. If you like lighter greens, “Fresh Breeze” and “Bi Luo Interdependence” are more suitable. If you prefer cyan, you can try the “spruce” which is like a blue sky.
– Pure Green (GC5510-4)
– Breeze on the Face (GC4651-4)
– Biluo (GC0024-4)
– Spruce (GC0042-4)
If the blue sky and sea are your favorite colors, why not let the blue sky spread to your home. As described in Wang Bo’s poems, “the water and the sky are the same color”, which makes people feel relaxed and enlightened; the “spring water” is as lingering as a waterscape in the south of the Yangtze River; Furthermore, the “celadon”, which is as gentle as a drizzle, is more inclined to light blue than light blue.
– Water and Sky Isise (BN0002-4)
– Spring Water (BC0022-4)
– Dewdrop (BC0021-4)
– Celadon (BC0058-4)
The above is the recommendation for the lighter colors in the three color systems of white, green, and blue, I hope it can be helpful.

If you’re interested in some of the bove colors, click the links below and learn more about NipponPaint’s colors!

I believe everyone will want to renovate the idea of ​​​​a small apartment.

The apartment itself is old, and over the years, the walls are full of stains. It’s time for a fresh coat of paint and a new look.

But I have no idea how to decorate and paint. So I first inquired about how to renovate the walls, and then I researched how to choose paint. After a week, I finally settled on the final plan. First of all, after repeatedly sifting through so many paint brands, after asking seniors with experience in decoration, I chose to use Nippon Paint from Japanese brands. But how to choose a specific latex paint? Since do-it-yourself added to the budget, plus for a more comfortable life, decided not to skimp on paint. However, although the design of Nippon Paint’s children’s paint “Little Prince” is very attractive, the “Golden Formaldehyde Anti-Formaldehyde Net Smell Full Effect” with bamboo charcoal formula was finally selected.

It seems that many choices have been made, but the most difficult choice has only begun, and that is the color. I have to say that there are too many choices of paint colors. There are so many colors on the Nippon Color Card, and there are countless shades of white alone. In the long exploration and selection, there is a color called “soft pearl color” that has been lingering in my heart for a long time. It was a pale, shell-like, soft white. I immediately settled on “Soft Pearl” as my paint color.

Everything is ready for construction. According to Nippon’s suggestion when buying materials, it is divided into five steps. First, use protective tools such as washi protective film to cover furniture, floors, and everything you don’t want to be splashed with paint. Second, use sponge sand bricks to polish the wall until it is smooth and clean. Third, if there is mold on the wall, use a mildew inhibitor to eradicate it and wait for the wall to dry. Fourth, apply the primer, I use the Nippon clean-flavor primer, just dilute it with water and apply a layer. Fifth, apply latex paint, but also to dilute with water, but in order to make the color better adhere to two layers, wait for two to three hours to dry. It should be noted that the primer and topcoat should not add too much water, just dilute it a little, otherwise the paint film will become too thin.

Although not every detail is perfect, but the final result is still very satisfactory. Brand new walls, comfortable tones. The following are the materials I used, hoping to provide some help for friends who are considering refurbishing paint.

Latex paint: Nippon Gold with full effect of anti-formaldehyde and net smell, color: OW078-4 Soft Pearl