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11 December 2018

Myth-busting the solvent vs water-based paint debate

Suzie Upson, Marketing Manager at Teknos

It wasn't so long ago that solvent-borne paints were the only option for durability and gloss. Times have changed in the last 50 years however and water-based paints can now outperform most solvent-based paints in the domestic, decorator and joinery market.

One of the biggest advantages of choosing waterborne is the low levels of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC). Once you've applied your paint, evaporation occurs as the drying process takes place. If the carrier is solvent-based, VOCs from the solvents will enter the atmosphere of the room and these can be harmful to children, people with certain allergies and to the environment. With water-based paints, however, the principal element released into the room is water, making them much safer to use than solvent-based paints.

Teknos has consistently moved towards water-based coatings solutions wherever possible and, today, the majority of our decorative and joinery ranges are waterborne. Many also meet the M1 Emission Classification for low-emissions and some such as Biora carry the Nordic ‘Swan' label and are certified by the Finnish Allergy and Asthma Federation.

It's good to know that by choosing Teknos water-based paints, you are protecting your family from large amounts of solvent fumes while not compromising on quality and finish. Modern water-based paints have come a long way and Teknos has been at the forefront of this drive for over 70 years. Our operating principles of Fairness, Persistence and Creativity have been instrumental in this direction. Choosing waterborne paints for your home is an environmentally responsible decision and Teknos is here to help.

For further information on Teknos, contact 01608 688925 or visithttp://www.teknos.co.uk/.

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Notes to editor

Teknos is a global coatings company with operations in more than 20 countries in Europe, Asia, and the USA. Approximately 1,800 people are employed and the net sales for 2017 was EUR 384 million. Teknos is one of the leading suppliers of industrial coatings with a strong position in retail and architectural coatings. Teknos wants to make the world last longer by providing smart, technically-advanced paint and coating solutions to protect and prolong. Teknos always works in close cooperation with customers. The company was established in 1948, and is one of Finland's largest family-owned businesses.

Teknos GBI is a leading supplier of water-based coatings. Teknos paints are high-quality, low odour with sustainability at their core. Over the past 25 years, the company has specialised in factory-finished joinery with a niche and growing customer base in metal coatings, and now it also has a strong following for its multi-surface brushing paints for professional decorators. Established in the UK since 1991, it is part of The Teknos Group. The Teknos Group has a unique history, experience and culture which are enshrined in the Teknos GBI approach. The company's values of creativity, persistence and fairness, permeates all that Teknos does so that its offering goes beyond paint; Teknos' professionalism and experience will solve your coatings problems. For further information, visitwww.teknos.co.uk.