Tikkurila Anti-Reflex 2 Review By Professional Decorators

Tikkurila Anti-Reflex 2 (AR2) has garnered a substantial following among professional decorators for its exceptional performance, especially on ceilings. This review synthesises insights from various industry professionals to provide a comprehensive evaluation of AR2, covering its advantages, limitations, and optimal usage scenarios.

Advantages of Tikkurila Anti-Reflex 2

1. Exceptional Flat Finish:
   • Many decorators appreciate AR2 for its ultra-flat finish, which effectively hides imperfections and reduces light reflections. This makes it particularly suitable for ceilings with critical lighting conditions.
2. Good Opacity:
   • Despite some mixed opinions, a significant number of users report that AR2 provides excellent coverage, often achieving a uniform finish in two coats. This is especially valued in high-end residential projects where a flawless look is paramount.
3. Durability:
   • Although primarily a ceiling paint, AR2 has been praised for its durability on walls as well. Its Class 2 scrub rating suggests it can withstand light cleaning, making it a versatile option for various surfaces in residential and commercial spaces.
4. Ease of Application:
   • Professionals find AR2 easy to apply, whether by roller or spray. The paint spreads well, and its smooth consistency helps in achieving a streak-free finish. It also touches up well, which is a significant advantage during final inspections and touch-ups.
5. Low Odour and Eco-friendly:
   • AR2 is noted for its low odour, making it a pleasant choice for interior projects. Additionally, its compliance with stringent EU regulations on biocides makes it a safer option for both applicators and occupants.

Limitations of Tikkurila Anti-Reflex 2

1. Limited Tinting Options:
   • A recurrent theme in user feedback is the limited tinting capability of AR2. While it performs excellently in white, decorators often need to switch to other products like Tikkurila Nova 2 or Teknos for tinted finishes, which can disrupt workflow and product consistency.
2. Susceptibility to Biological Contamination:
   • Users have reported that AR2 can develop an unpleasant odour if water is added to the paint and stored for an extended period. This is attributed to the reduced biocide content due to EU regulations. To mitigate this, it is recommended to use distilled water and avoid storing mixed paint.
3. Coverage Over Imperfections:
   • While AR2 excels in creating a flat finish, it sometimes struggles to cover fillers and other imperfections on the first coat. Some professionals suggest using a primer like Optiva Primer on new plaster to achieve better results.

Comparative Analysis

1. Vs. Covaplus and Other Vinyl Matts:
   • Many decorators have switched from Covaplus to AR2 due to its superior finish on ceilings with critical lighting. However, Covaplus is still preferred in environments with less critical lighting or where budget constraints exist.
2. Vs. Teknos Teknoceiling 02:
   • Teknos Teknoceiling 02 is frequently mentioned as a strong competitor to AR2. It offers similar benefits, with some users preferring its slightly better opacity and faster recoat time. Teknos is also noted for maintaining consistency throughout the entire tub without breaking down.
3. Vs. Other Flat Matts:
   • Products like Johnstone’s Perfect Matt and Dulux Ultra Matt are also highly rated, with some professionals favouring them over AR2 for their specific benefits. For instance, Perfect Matt is praised for its cleanable properties, while Ultra Matt is valued for its ultra-flat finish, despite its higher cost.

Recommendations

1. Best Use Cases:
   • AR2 is ideal for high-end residential projects, especially for ceilings in living rooms, bedrooms, and other areas with critical lighting. It is also suitable for commercial spaces where a durable, flat finish is required.
2. Application Tips:
   • Ensure surfaces are properly primed and sanded. For new plaster, use a suitable primer like Optiva Primer before applying AR2.
   • Avoid adding water directly to the paint tub if planning to store it. Instead, mix small batches as needed.
   • For best results, apply with a high-quality roller or sprayer and allow adequate drying time between coats.

Conclusion

Tikkurila Anti-Reflex 2 is a highly regarded product among professional decorators for its exceptional flat finish, good durability, and ease of application. While it has some limitations, particularly in tinting and biological contamination when mixed with water, its benefits far outweigh these drawbacks. For those seeking a top-tier ceiling paint that delivers a flawless, matte finish, AR2 remains a go-to choice in the industry.