When it comes to choosing a high-performance, durable emulsion, decorators often turn to Isomat Premium. This product has been making waves among professionals for its exceptional qualities, including its flat matt finish, superior opacity, and impressive scrub rating. But is it truly a premium option worth the hype? Based on real-world feedback from decorators , this review delves into the strengths and weaknesses of Isomat Premium.
Spoiler: Decorators who use this gear regularly will probably hate me for publishing this review as it could well lead to more people wanting to use it!
Key Features and Strengths
1. Durability and Scrub Rating
A major selling point of Isomat Premium is its durability. Decorators like Leigh B and Sam W often highlight the paint’s impressive 20,000 scrub cycles, a statistic that surpasses many competitors. This feature makes it an ideal choice for high-traffic areas, such as hallways and kitchens, where surfaces need to withstand regular cleaning.
Leigh B noted, “Isomat Premium has a higher scrub rating and only 3% sheen, and also covers better than the professional!” Similarly, decorators have praised its ability to maintain its finish even after repeated cleaning, making it a top contender for durability-focused projects.
2. Flat Finish with Minimal Sheen
For customers seeking a flat, matt finish, Isomat Premium offers just that, with only a 3% sheen level. This makes it perfect for achieving a modern, non-reflective aesthetic. Decorators like Peter J mentioned, “In white, it’s almost Anti-Reflex 2 level—flat and bright.” Such low sheen levels are rare in the durable emulsion category, making Isomat Premium a standout choice for those seeking both durability and aesthetic appeal.
3. Exceptional Opacity
Opacity is another area where Isomat Premium excels. Many decorators have shared their experiences of achieving solid coverage in just two coats, even over bold or dark colours. Sam W provided a striking example: “We even covered a black wall in two coats with a beige!”
This exceptional coverage not only saves time but also reduces the amount of paint required, making it a cost-effective choice for decorators working on tight budgets or deadlines.
Ease of Application
Isomat Premium has a reputation for being slightly thicker than other paints, which some decorators appreciate for its ease of control during application. However, a consistent piece of advice is to thin the paint slightly for optimal results. Neil H recommended adding about 5% water, noting that it prevents dragging when cutting in and helps the paint flow smoothly.
Sam W also shared a helpful tip: “We add a drop of water to it as it’s a bit thick, but it rolls out nice.” While the thicker consistency may initially deter some decorators, most find it manageable with minor adjustments.
Colour Matching and Tinting
One of the standout advantages of Isomat Premium is its ability to achieve accurate colour matches, especially to popular Dulux and Little Greene shades. John S commented on a successful colour match done at Topdec Decorating Supplies, emphasising that the final result was “bang on.”
However, decorators like Ian G expressed concerns about whether Isomat consistently matches Dulux colours. The consensus is that when using reputable suppliers like Topdec, colour matching is reliable, making Isomat Premium a versatile choice for custom projects.
Challenges and Limitations
1. Touch-Up Performance
While many decorators praise Isomat Premium’s performance, touch-ups remain a mixed bag. Some professionals, such as Nicky H, reported successful touch-ups with the product. However, others like DJB Decor noted that “touching up always seems different to the original and really stands out.”
This variability can pose challenges, particularly for projects with high exposure to natural light or where flawless touch-ups are essential. In such cases, decorators recommend ensuring even application and considering alternatives for problematic areas.
2. Availability
Another recurring issue is the limited availability of Isomat products in some areas. Decorators like Chris G pointed out, “It isn’t readily available off the shelf, which is an important factor for most decorators.” While suppliers like Topdec are helping bridge this gap, the reliance on specialist retailers can be inconvenient for decorators who need immediate access to products.
3. Application Challenges
Although Isomat Premium generally receives praise for its workability, some decorators have experienced issues with dragging and uneven coverage in darker colours. For instance, Adam F shared his frustration, saying, “Even the second coat doesn’t glide on like other paints.” Thinning the paint slightly and using high-quality tools can mitigate these issues, but decorators should be prepared for minor adjustments during application.
Comparing Isomat Premium to Competitors
When stacked against other durable emulsions, Isomat Premium holds its own with a competitive price point and superior performance. Dom S highlighted its value, stating, “At £100 for 10 litres, it outperforms Dulux Diamond Matt with better scrub ratings and fewer coats required.”
While products like Johnstone’s Cleanable Matt and Dulux Diamond Matt are frequently mentioned as alternatives, Isomat Premium’s low sheen, flat finish, and exceptional opacity set it apart. However, for those prioritising touch-up performance, competitors like Caparol might be worth exploring.
Final Verdict: Is Isomat Premium Worth It?
Isomat Premium has cemented itself as a favourite among decorators for its durability, flat finish, and excellent opacity. It’s particularly well-suited for high-traffic areas where both aesthetics and resilience are essential. However, it’s not without its drawbacks—namely, touch-up challenges and limited availability.
For decorators seeking a reliable, durable emulsion with a luxurious finish, Isomat Premium is an excellent choice. As Sam W aptly summarised, “We’ve been using it for a while, and personally, I think it’s better than the other premium brands. Always covers in two coats and touches in nice.”
That said, the paint’s success heavily depends on the specific project requirements. For high-visibility areas or challenging substrates, careful preparation and application are key to unlocking the full potential of this versatile product.
