Hey fellow eco-warriors! 
I’ve been diving deep into the world of natural paints for my latest home renovation project, and I’ve hit a bit of a crossroads. I’m torn between using clay paints and silicate paints, especially when it comes to their breathability and moisture control properties. I’ve previously used Earthborn Claypaint in my living room, and I was blown away by its natural texture and how it helped regulate the room’s humidity. But now, I’m considering Keim Mineral Paints for my bathroom due to their silicate base, which I’ve heard offers superior moisture resistance and durability in wetter environments.
What’s been your experience with these types of paints? Have you noticed a significant difference in how they handle moisture and allow walls to breathe? I’m particularly curious about their application on different surfaces—like plaster versus drywall—and how that affects their performance. Also, any tips on prep work or application techniques that have worked well for you would be super helpful!
Let’s share our stories and tips to help each other make more informed, eco-friendly choices for our homes. Can’t wait to hear your thoughts and experiences! 
Great topic, @EcoRenovator88! I’ve used both Earthborn Claypaint and Keim Mineral Paints in different parts of my home. For breathability, I found that clay paints, like Earthborn, are fantastic. They really help with humidity control, especially in living spaces. However, for areas prone to moisture, like bathrooms, I lean towards silicate paints. Keim has been a game-changer for my bathroom, offering excellent moisture resistance without compromising on breathability. It’s all about choosing the right tool for the job!
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Thanks for sharing your experience, @GreenThumb99! It’s reassuring to hear that Keim works well in bathrooms. Did you notice any difference in application between the two paints? I’m curious if one was easier to work with than the other.
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@EcoRenovator88, great question! I found Earthborn Claypaint to be a bit more forgiving during application. It’s easier to get a consistent finish, even if you’re not a pro. Keim, on the other hand, requires a bit more precision. The key with silicate paints is to ensure the surface is properly prepared. They bond chemically with the substrate, so surface prep is crucial for a durable finish.
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I’m a big fan of Earthborn Claypaint for its eco-friendly credentials and the beautiful, matte finish it leaves. However, I haven’t tried silicate paints yet. @GreenThumb99, you mentioned surface prep is crucial for Keim. Could you elaborate on what that entails? I’m considering it for my kitchen backsplash.
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@DIYQueen, absolutely! For Keim Mineral Paints, the surface needs to be clean, dry, and sound. Any loose material should be removed, and it’s recommended to apply a primer if the surface is very porous or uneven. This ensures the paint can bond properly and last longer. For a kitchen backsplash, considering the exposure to moisture and grease, proper surface prep and a good quality primer are key to achieving a durable finish.
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I’ve been on the fence about switching to natural paints, but this discussion is really helpful! Does anyone have tips on transitioning from conventional paints to natural options like Earthborn or Keim? I’m concerned about compatibility and whether I need to strip the old paint first.
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@NatureLover23, that’s a great point! From my experience, it’s not always necessary to strip old paint, but ensuring the surface is clean and stable is crucial. For Earthborn Claypaint, I’ve successfully applied it over existing emulsion after a thorough cleaning and light sanding. However, for Keim, due to its chemical bonding, you might need to consult their guidelines or even reach out to their support for specific advice. It’s always better to be safe and ensure the best possible outcome for your project!
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I’ve been using Earthborn Claypaint in my bedroom and it’s been a revelation. The room feels fresher, and I’ve noticed a significant difference in air quality. But I’m curious, has anyone tried mixing clay and silicate paints for areas that need a balance of breathability and moisture resistance? Could that be a thing?
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Totally get where you’re coming from with the Keim Mineral Paints in the bathroom. I used it in mine too, and it’s held up against all the steam and splashes like a champ. But I wonder, how does it fare in colder climates? Does the moisture resistance hold up when it’s freezing outside and you’ve got the heating cranked up inside?
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Interesting point about the Earthborn Claypaint and humidity control. I used it in my kitchen, and while it’s great for keeping the air fresh, I did notice it can be a bit tricky to clean if you get splatters or stains. Has anyone found a good way to clean clay paint without damaging it? Maybe a specific type of cleaner or technique?
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I’ve used both Earthborn Claypaint and Keim Mineral Paints in different parts of my house. For breathability, clay paint wins hands down. It’s amazing how it helps regulate humidity. But for areas prone to moisture, like bathrooms, silicate paints are unbeatable. They bond chemically with the substrate, making them super durable against moisture. Surface prep for Keim involves cleaning the surface thoroughly and ensuring it’s free from any old paint or wallpaper residues. It’s a bit more work but totally worth it for the longevity it offers.
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I’m all about Earthborn Claypaint too! The texture and finish are just unmatched. I haven’t ventured into silicate paints yet, but your question about surface prep for Keim got me curious. From what I’ve gathered, it’s not just about cleaning. You might need to apply a primer, especially on surfaces that are too smooth or have been painted with non-mineral paints before. It’s all about ensuring the silicate paint can properly bond with the surface.
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I tried Keim Mineral Paints in my kitchen, and the difference in moisture control is noticeable. The key to surface prep, as I found out, is making sure the surface is absorbent. If it’s too glossy or sealed, the paint won’t adhere well. I had to sand down some areas and apply a special primer. It was a bit of a hassle, but the result is a kitchen that’s easier to clean and looks fresh for longer.
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I’m considering Keim for my bathroom renovation. The moisture resistance sounds perfect for such a humid environment. From what I’ve read, surface prep is crucial. It’s not just about cleaning; you need to ensure the surface is porous enough for the silicate paint to penetrate and bond. This might mean more prep work, especially if you’re covering old paint. But if it means a longer-lasting finish, I’m all for it.
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I love the eco-friendly aspect of Earthborn Claypaint, but I’m intrigued by the durability of silicate paints. For those who’ve used Keim, how does it hold up against mold and mildew in really damp areas? Also, does the surface prep differ between interior and exterior applications? I’m thinking of using it outside as well, but I’m not sure if the prep work is more intensive.
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Switching to natural paints was a game-changer for me. I didn’t strip the old paint; instead, I gave the walls a good clean and used a primer that’s compatible with both the old paint and the new natural paint I chose. It worked like a charm. Just make sure to check the compatibility of the primer with the natural paint brand you’re going for.
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I was worried about the transition too, but honestly, it’s not as daunting as it seems. I went with Earthborn over my old paint, and it adhered perfectly. The key is in the prep work. Clean the walls thoroughly and maybe do a small test patch to see how it dries. It’s all about taking that first step.
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I’ve used both Earthborn and Keim, and while Keim is fantastic for moisture-prone areas, Earthborn has this unmatched texture and depth. For transitioning, I’d say go for it without stripping the old paint, but do ensure the surface is sound and clean. A good quality primer is your best friend here.
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Transitioning to natural paints was one of the best decisions for my home. I didn’t strip the old paint; instead, I opted for a thorough cleaning and a layer of eco-friendly primer. It’s been a couple of years, and the Earthborn paint still looks fresh. Just make sure to follow the manufacturer’s prep recommendations.
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