Dulux Trade Vinyl Matt has been a staple in the UK painting industry for years, recognised for its widespread availability and the reputable Dulux brand. However, recent discussions among professional decorators have highlighted a range of experiences with this product. In this comprehensive Dulux Trade Vinyl Matt review, we look into the insights of over 150 decorators who have shared their firsthand accounts, providing an objective analysis of its performance.
Overview of Dulux Trade Vinyl Matt Paint
Dulux Trade Vinyl Matt is a high-quality, water-based emulsion designed for interior walls and ceilings. It offers a smooth, flat matt finish and is available in a vast spectrum of colours. Formulated to provide good coverage and a professional finish, it aims to meet the demands of both residential and commercial projects.
Coverage and Opacity
One of the critical aspects examined in this Dulux Trade Vinyl Matt review is the paint’s coverage and opacity. The feedback from decorators is mixed:
- Positive Experiences: Some professionals report that the paint covers well, especially when properly thinned. They find it reliable for achieving a consistent matt finish, making it a preferred choice for various projects.
- Negative Experiences: Conversely, several decorators have faced challenges with coverage, particularly with lighter colours over darker base coats. Instances were noted where even two coats did not achieve full opacity, leading to additional labour and material costs.
A common thread among the negative feedback is the inconsistency in performance compared to previous formulations. Decorators reminisced about the older versions of Dulux Trade Vinyl Matt, which they felt offered better coverage and fewer issues like flashing or picture framing.
Application and Finish
Application challenges are a significant concern highlighted in this Dulux Trade Vinyl Matt review. Decorators have reported problems such as:
- Flashing: Uneven sheen or colour variations after drying, resulting in a patchy appearance.
- Picture Framing: Edges of the painted area appearing differently from the rest of the surface, often due to differences in application technique or drying times.
To mitigate these issues, professionals have attempted various strategies:
- Adjusting Techniques: Working on one wall at a time, cutting in and rolling immediately to maintain a wet edge.
- Consistent Thinning: Ensuring that both the cutting-in paint and rolling paint are thinned equally to promote uniform drying.
- Using Additives: Incorporating paint conditioners to improve flow and extend drying times.
Despite these efforts, some decorators continue to encounter problems, attributing them to possible changes in the paint’s formulation. Environmental factors, such as high temperatures causing rapid drying, can exacerbate these issues.
Durability and Washability
Durability is a crucial factor for many professionals, and this Dulux Trade Vinyl Matt review reflects concerns in this area. The paint is not specifically marketed as a durable or washable product, and experiences shared by decorators confirm this:
- Marking Easily: Several reports indicate that the paint is prone to marking, with even light contact leaving visible blemishes.
- Cleaning Challenges: Attempts to clean marks with a damp cloth have sometimes resulted in paint coming off or leaving stains, making it unsuitable for high-traffic areas requiring regular maintenance.
For projects where durability and washability are essential, many professionals recommend alternative products, such as Dulux Diamond Matt or other durable matt finishes designed to withstand cleaning and wear.
Price Point
The cost of Dulux Trade Vinyl Matt is a point of contention among decorators featured in this review:
- Value Concerns: Some feel that the price is not justified given the performance issues, especially when compared to competitors offering better results at a lower cost.
- Trade Discounts: Others find the price acceptable when benefiting from trade discounts and appreciate the brand’s reputation and availability.
Balancing cost against quality is a critical consideration, and the mixed feedback suggests that while some are willing to pay a premium for the Dulux name, others are seeking more cost-effective alternatives without compromising on performance.
Common Issues
Several common issues have been identified in this Dulux Trade Vinyl Matt review:
- Consistency Problems: Reports of lumps or thickening in new tins suggest possible quality control or storage issues.
- Formula Changes: Many decorators believe that changes in the paint’s formulation have led to decreased performance, expressing disappointment compared to older versions.
- Environmental Sensitivity: The paint appears to be more sensitive to environmental conditions, such as temperature and humidity, affecting its application and finish.
These issues have prompted professionals to reassess their choice of paint, especially when consistency and reliability are paramount.
Comparison with Other Brands
In light of the challenges faced, many decorators have explored alternatives to Dulux Trade Vinyl Matt. This review highlights several popular options:
- Johnstone’s Covaplus Vinyl Matt: Preferred by some for its reliability and cost-effectiveness, with fewer issues related to flashing and better overall performance.
- Tikkurila Vinyl Matt: Praised for its quality, smooth application, and consistent finish, making it a strong contender in the professional market.
- Isomat Premium Color: Noted for excellent opacity, whiteness, and durability, offering a flat matt finish suitable for high-standard projects.
- Dulux Heritage Velvet Matt: Within the Dulux range, this product has received positive feedback for superior coverage and finish, although it comes at a higher price point.
The choice of paint often depends on specific project requirements, including desired finish, durability, client preferences, and budget constraints.
Final Thoughts
This Dulux Trade Vinyl Matt review encapsulates the experiences of over 150 professional decorators, revealing a diverse range of opinions. While the product remains a common choice due to its brand recognition and availability, significant concerns have been raised regarding its performance.
Pros:
- Availability: Widely accessible across the UK, ensuring ease of procurement.
- Colour Range: Extensive selection allows for flexibility in design.
- Brand Trust: Dulux’s reputation provides confidence for some professionals and clients.
Cons:
- Application Challenges: Issues like flashing and picture framing can affect the final result and may require additional work.
- Durability Limitations: Not ideal for areas where walls are subject to wear and need regular cleaning.
- Cost vs. Quality: Higher price may not align with the performance, leading some to consider it less value for money.
Recommendation:
Professionals considering Dulux Trade Vinyl Matt should weigh these factors carefully. Testing the paint on a small area can help assess its suitability for the specific conditions of a project. Open dialogue with clients about potential limitations and exploring alternative products may lead to better outcomes.
Staying updated on product developments and seeking advice from suppliers or manufacturer representatives can also assist in making informed decisions.
Note: This Dulux Trade Vinyl Matt review is based on the collective experiences and opinions of over 150 professional decorators. Individual results may vary depending on application techniques, environmental conditions, and specific project factors.
