However, bathrooms are one area where the exceptions are more frequent than usual. It sets up a vapor barrier and doesn t let as much of the humidity pass to the other side of the wall, and contains the moisture in the bathroom area instead of letting it leach into walls. Otherwise, when the sun hits the outside wall, it actually draws moisture through and causes paint peeling on the outside. For the period of time someone is taking a shower, the room gets very moist, and water is actually running down the walls as it condenses. If the surface underneath is not a firm, tight surface, the moisture can penetrate and cause your coat of paint to lift or bubble.
Alkyds traditionally have a tighter film and seal the surface better, but are more prone to mildew.
Co. The company has also introduced a primer for mildew-prone areas with the same properties. Acrylic paints are also faster-drying, enabling a contractor to complete a job more profitably. One disadvantage to acrylics is surfactant bleeding, noted Nolan, though this problem stops once the paint cures. And, as previously mentioned, bathrooms with very high humidity will fare better with the moisture barrier set up by oil-based products. Your trendy customers really have their heart set on matte walls in their charmingly retro-styled old bathroom.