Why Are KEIM Mineral-Based Sol-Silicate Paints Different?
Silicate Paint is a high-performance paint formed by the precise combination of liquid water glass (potassium silicate), inorganic color pigments, and mineral-based fillers. Unlike organic synthetic paints that merely sit on the surface, silicate paints deeply penetrate and chemically bond with the mineral substrate.
Unmatched Longevity & Protection
While organic synthetic paints simply form a removable film layer, KEIM silicate paints chemically integrate to become an inseparable part of the surface.
The Town Hall in Schwyz, Switzerland, painted with KEIM silicate paints in 1891, still retains its original vibrant appearance today—proving over 130 years of weather resistance.
What Are the Advantages of KEIM Silicate Paints?
1. Silicification (Chemical Bonding)
In KEIM silicate systems, the liquid potassium silicate binder deeply penetrates plaster, natural stone, or concrete. This chemical reaction creates an insoluble mineral bond called silicification.
2. Extremely Long-Lasting Durability
KEIM silicate paints do not flake, peel, or blister. The binder is completely immune to UV radiation damage, acid rain, atmospheric industrial gases, and severe weather exposure.
3. Perfect Moisture Balance & Vapor Permeability
Extremely high water vapor permeability allows moisture inside the wall to escape freely outwards. Preventing moisture entrapment eliminates frost damage and structural deterioration.
4. Anti-Static Cleanliness
Unlike thermoplastic resin or silicone paints that attract airborne dirt when heated or charged by wind friction, KEIM silicate paints are anti-static and remain clean over decades.
5. Vibrant Matte Aesthetics & Luminosity
Because potassium water glass is completely transparent, ambient light hits the mineral pigments unhindered. This produces an exceptionally radiant, naturally impressive matte finish.
6. Health, Safety & Zero VOC
Completely free of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC), solvent-free, non-toxic, odorless, mold-inhibiting, and non-flammable (releases zero toxic gas in case of fire).
Color Fastness: No Fading Over Decades
Right: Organic pigmented paint applied in 1995.
(Photo taken in 2004 showing severe organic fading).
After 30 years of harsh sun exposure, the 1974 application matches the newly applied 2003 silicate paint perfectly.
Summary: Why KEIM Silicate Paints Lead the World
Radiant, non-fading color tones and clean exterior facades over decades can only be achieved when coating materials fulfill strict physical and chemical criteria:
- UV and acid-resistant mineral pigments
- UV and weather-resistant potassium silicate binder
- Anti-static and non-thermoplastic surface
- Maximum vapor breathability & ideal drying
- Transparent mineral matrix for optical brilliance
- Ecological, non-flammable & 0% VOC formulation

