Assess paint durability

The durability of paint against mechanical exposure is described as washability/wet abrasion/scrub resistance class.
Paint endurance
Paint durability is directly linked to the routine maintenance of the surface. The level of washability should ensure that the painted surface can be cleaned easily without damaging its quality.

For a standard living room a paint with washability class 3 will be sufficient. For areas with heavy usage, such as corridor, kitchen, children’s room, bathroom, paints with the washability class 1 or at least 2 should be used.

Classification according to standard testing

  • 200
    washing cycles, <5μm abrasion
    Class 1
    Suitable for cleaning with water and natural brush if neutral or hygienic cleaner is added. Applicable for extremely burdened indoor areas such as entrance halls, kitchens, staircases or public buildings.
  • 200
    washing cycles, ≥ 5 μm and < 20 μm abrasion
    Class 2
    Suitable for cleaning with water and natural brush if neutral cleaner is added. Applicable for ceilings and walls with heavy usage such as children's and bathrooms.
  • 200
    washing cycles, ≥ 20 μm and < 70 μm abrasion
    Class 3
    Suitable for cleaning with water and cloth if neutral cleaner is added. Applicable for ceilings and walls with normal usage such as living rooms.
  • 40
    washing cycles, < 70 μm abrasion
    Class 4
    Suitable for cleaning with dry cloth. Applicable for ceilings and walls in living rooms.
  • 40
    washing cycles, ≥ 70 μm abrasion
    Class 5
    Applicable for ceilings in living rooms. Resistant to dry wiping.
The paint products with higher washability class tend to be more expensive. Raw material choice and paint formulation both affect the paint product washability standard and their final shelf price.

Related articles

View more articles