MST Synthetic Enamel

MST Synthetic Enamel is a high-gloss alkyd resin topcoat. On wood and metal it combines a decorative finish with genuine durability, drying to a level, full, washable enamel surface.

The defining characteristic of synthetic enamel is how it flows out. As the film spreads after application it largely closes brush and roller marks. That makes a flat finish far easier to achieve on surfaces seen at eye level and in constant view — door leaves, architraves, railings, furniture. The same behaviour makes the painted surface cleanable: a smooth film holds less dirt and wipes down with a damp cloth.

On colour, this group offers the widest range in the MST family. Alkyd resin carries pigment well, so opacity stays high even in deep, saturated tones, and the thousand-plus shades in the colour chart can be produced through this product. Corporate colour matching and project-specific custom shades can be accommodated.

In terms of durability the enamel film is markedly harder than water-based interior paints. It resists impact, scratching and wet cleaning, which is why it is chosen for surfaces in heavy contact.

Typical applications include interior and exterior wooden joinery, door and window leaves, architraves and skirting, radiators, railings and wrought iron, steel joinery, furniture, stair balustrades, and the metal and timber elements of frequently cleaned environments such as schools and hospitals.

On wood, sand along the grain, wipe the dust off with a damp cloth and let the surface dry. Knots and resinous areas must be sealed with a stain-blocking primer; if they are not, resin will bleed through the paint over time and cause yellowing. On previously painted timber, remove loose layers and dull any sound remaining paint.

On metal, remove all rust and grease, and always prime bare steel with an anti-rust primer. Where the product goes over glossy old paint, abrade the surface first, otherwise the new coat will grip poorly.

Do not skip the primer on absorbent timber; without it the first coat is drawn into the wood, opacity falls and consumption rises. On metal a primer is essential for corrosion protection.

For brush and roller work the product is normally used as supplied, thinned with synthetic thinner by around 5% by volume if required. Spray may need a higher ratio depending on the equipment. Do not use water or water-based thinners.

Thin coats always beat thick ones with synthetic paint, and the rule matters especially here: because the enamel film flows freely, a coat laid on heavily in one pass will sag and run on vertical surfaces. Two thin coats dry faster and last longer.

When brushing, lay off the final passes in one direction, along the grain. Do not return to a半-dried surface; trying to rework it makes brush marks permanent.

Allow the surface to dry properly between coats. Touch-dry is not enough — alkyd resin keeps hardening by oxidation in air, so the film must have begun to set before the next coat. A second coat applied too early softens the film underneath and causes wrinkling.

Apply in mild, dry weather. At low temperatures oxidation slows and drying is extended; at high temperatures and in direct sunlight the surface skins over too early. Avoid dusty conditions — dust particles leave permanent marks in a gloss enamel surface.

Ventilate enclosed spaces and wear a suitable respirator and gloves. Clean equipment with synthetic thinner; collect solvent-soaked rags in a closed metal container.

The information below describes the general behaviour of alkyd-based synthetic topcoats. For measured values specific to product and colour, refer to the technical data sheet (TDS).

The cured enamel film is hard, level and washable, resisting impact, scratching and wet cleaning. Its smoothness reduces dirt pick-up, which lowers the maintenance burden in frequently cleaned environments.

Alkyd systems are sensitive to alkaline substrates; fresh concrete and new cement render must not be coated directly before curing is complete. Surfaces under permanent water immersion, areas exposed to strong chemical spillage and surfaces at high service temperature are outside its scope. Outdoors, some loss of gloss over time is normal on surfaces in prolonged direct sunlight.

Store in the closed original container in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Protect from frost and excessive heat. A skin may form in an opened container; remove it and stir thoroughly before use.