KEIM.
Good for the planet.
Good for people.
Responsibly made.
To make your homes more sustainable, longer-lasting materials are the way to go. Did you know that you could extend your exterior paint maintenance cycle to 20 or 30 years with KEIM mineral silicate paints? These paints are not only ecologically sound, but they also have no negative impact on human health. Plus, they are always responsibly made and come with a Cradle-to-Cradle certification. Don’t settle for anything less than the best when it comes to your homes. Choose KEIM mineral silicate paints for a long-lasting, safe, eco-friendly solution.
Why Mineral Paints
Extended Lifespan, Low Maintenance and Non-Fading
Extraordinary Paints
See what makes mineral silicate paints so extraordinary
Will not flake or peel
MINERAL PAINT FUSES CHEMICALLY WITH BRICK, STONE, STUCCO, CONCRETE AND MASONRY
KEIM is the perfect solution for those who want a long-lasting and beautiful finish for their home or building. Unlike traditional paints, KEIM paint forms covalent chemical bonds with masonry to ensure lasting, permanent adhesion. This unique process, called petrification or silicification is very similar to the bonds that form limestone in nature to ensure paint cannot peel or flake off. Mineral paints become “part” of the masonry for decades of durability.
SOLID MINERAL COMPOUND
Silicification is a geological process that replaces original materials with silica. The process involves silica-rich binder, the backbone of KEIM paint, penetrating and seeping into voids in masonry. The binder dissolves calcium carbonate, which precipitates silica. The silica, or quartz, results in the mineralization, “turning to stone” of wet paint.
- LEFT: Mineral silicate paint is applied to masonry like ordinary paint.
- MIDDLE: The binder seeps deep into masonry and begins the chemical process.
- RIGHT: Cured paint is now an integral part of the masonry surface with a colored microporous crystalline matrix surface.
Typical latex/acrylic paints adhere to the surface by a sticky mechanical bond, while KEIM mineral silicate finishes penetrate and form permanent, chemical bonds. You will never experience the situation pictured here.
Will Not Flake or Peel
Defies severe weather
MINERAL PAINTS REPEL WINDDRIVEN RAIN
Proven by third-party ASTM standard testing, KEIM mineral paints completely resist winddriven rain without leaking, ensuring moisture cannot penetrate. The stone-like surface is naturally hydrophobic, with no capillary action to draw moisture into walls. Keeping water away from masonry walls is key to longevity and low maintenance.
MINERAL PAINTS ARE NOT DEGRADED BY EVEN THE HARSHEST UV
Quartz binders, the “glue” that binds mineral paints and pigments, like their namesake minerals are not deteriorated by sunlight or UV. From high mountain to desert climates, mineral paints stand the test of time. KEIM mineral paints are a favorite of lighthouses across the globe for their durability, low maintenance, and true colors.
Defies Severe Weather
Colors do not fade
The surface of mineral paint resembles that of stone and is inert, making it impervious to various environmental factors such as UV, wind, rain, freezing temperatures, and acid rain. The paint finish, comprised of mineral silicate binder and mineral pigments and fillers, ensures no degradation from even the severest weather, thus resulting in an extraordinarily long life.
And KEIM offers a 20-year guarantee not to fade or lose adhesion.
KEIM Origins
“Gasthaus Weißer Adler” in Stein am Rhein, Switzerland was one of the first to be painted with KEIM mineral paint in 1891. It has endured and has never been repainted.
Wikipedia, 2020
KEIM IN THE USA SINCE 1905.
KEIM has been providing paint in the USA since 1905. The Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse and Museum in Jupiter Island, Florida, is one of the first known paint projects in the US. According to records, Keim mineral paint was first used to paint the brick lighthouse in 1905 to improve visibility and protect the historic brick from the harsh coastal climate. The standard KEIM red color was used, proven to be enduring as it survived for over a century without fading. It was repainted in the 1960s and again in 2019 to protect it for another 30 to 50 years. Can you imagine a red exterior paint color
Colors Do Not Fade
Healthy materials
MINERAL PAINTS CONTAIN LESS THAN 5% ADDITIVES
Consider a paint with complete transparency to natural ingredients—KEIM mineral silicate paints are comprised of what you see here. Potassium silicate (liquid quartz), mineral pitments, titanium dioxide, and feldspar— natural quartz comprising more than 95% of the total ingredients.
No plasticizers or other plastics, no biocides, no VOC’s and no harsh chemicals. Allergy sufferers will find KEIM paints a breath of fresh air with no odor or outgassing of toxins. Once the water has evaporated from the wet paint, no other chemicals are outgassed.
And our ingredients are fully vetted by multiple third party testing and certification agencies:
- UL Greenguard Gold
- Cradle to Cradle Product Institute
- The International EPD System
ALL KEIM PAINTS ARE CERTIFIED GOLD FOR MATERIAL HEALTH
With their natural, safe, and non-toxic ingredients, KEIM paints and stains are certified Gold for Material Health by the Cradle to Cradle Product Institute®.
- Potassium carbonate and water are the chief ingredients—no harmful chemicals.
- Minerals are odorless—in the container and on your walls.
- Truly VOC free—no solvents are ever added.
- Experience the peace of mind that comes with knowing that KEIM paints and stains contain only naturally occurring minerals, fillers, and pigments. No biocides, plasticizers, or harsh chemicals are used, ensuring a truly eco-friendly product.
- Pure—KEIM finishes are safe and nontoxic, tested for over 10,000 harmful chemicals and solvents.
Healthy Materials
Paint that breathes
NO PAINT IS MORE VAPOR PERMEABLE THAN MINERAL PAINTS
Imagine a paint finish that allows your masonry walls to breathe naturally. Ordinary latex/acrylic paints seal masonry surfaces with a plastic layer that can trap moisture inside walls. KEIM mineral paints are microporous, allowing moisture to pass freely without damaging the paint.
Keeping masonry walls drier is critical to longevity and lower maintenance.
KEIM mineral paints will never blister. This latex/acrylic paint was installed on concrete, and trapped moisture is bubbling the paint and damaging the concrete beneath.
Latex/Acrylic VS KEIM Mineral Silicate
Moisture inside masonry or concrete walls is inevitable, but walls should dry out quickly to avoid mold surface damage, bubling paint, and deterioration of the wall itself. Here is an illustration of the difference between typical latex and acrylic paints and mineral paints
LEFT: Latex/Acrylic paints are made from petroleum and are considered nonbreathable. Trapped moisture cannot escape and builds behind the paint layer, ultimately pushing it from the surface.
RIGHT: Mineral paint is microporous and is completely breathable—moisture vapor escapes freely, without harm leaving masonry drier and healthier.
Paint that Breathes
Paint will not burn
MINERAL PAINTS ARE CLASS-A BUILDING MATERIALS
Mineral paints, such as KEIM mineral silicate paints and stains, are considered Class-A building materials because they are inert and won’t burn, making them safe in the event of a fire. ASTM E 84-08 testing shows that mineral silicate paints have a flame spread index of zero and a smoke-developed index of <5, which is the best performance for a paint surface.
This is because the components of these paints, including mineral silicate binders, quartz fillers, and mineral pigments, do not burn and do not provide fuel for a fire. On the other hand, latex, acrylic, and elastomeric paints, despite being waterthinned, are petroleum-based and their resins can burn and provide fuel in the event of a fire.
Paint Will Not Burn
Sustainable materials
Sustainability is a pivotal consideration in discussions about the future of construction. The building sector significantly contributes to greenhouse gas emissions, with 37% of global emissions coming from this industry, mainly from material production. KEIM mineral paints are specifically engineered to conserve natural resources, minimize waste, and reduce energy consumption. Let’s delve into how mineral paints contribute to sustainable practices:
- Mineral paints are exclusively made from renewable and abundant earthen materials, such as potassium carbonate,
quartz, and mineral pigments. - KEIM’s manufacturing process unequivocally demonstrates its unwavering environmental commitment by using solely renewable energy and recycling all water, resulting in a significantly reduced environmental impact.
Mineral paints are low-carbon-emitting products that actively consume CO2 during the curing process. - All suppliers undergo rigorous vetting and certification to ensure compliance with local guidelines and laws regarding material extraction, safety, and ethical treatment of workers, with a strict prohibition on the use of child or slave labor.
- KEIM’s paint formulas are impeccably optimized for a circular economy and necessitate no specialized processing for disposal.
Sustainable building materials provide a way to conduct environmentally responsible construction practices. This helps promote resource conservation and reduce carbon emissions. KEIM mineral paints offer durability, energy efficiency, low-maintenance, and aesthetic appeal. Embracing sustainable building materials in construction projects can help create a greener future while providing healthy and comfortable living spaces for inhabitants.
The construction industry must urgently do better to protect the environment. This is, after all, the only planet we can live on, so promoting sustainability will serve us — and future generations-in the most crucial way.
KEIM and construction pros are already taking steps in the right direction. Builders are now exploring sustainable construction materials to traditional materials, many of which are a significant source of emissions.
Sustainable Products
Additional Resources
Here are some key questions you might encounter.
Mineral paints are not derived from petroleum byproducts like latex or acrylic paints, making them immediately less of a threat to our ecology. Potassium carbonate, a key ingredient in KEIM paints, is the second most plentiful mineral on earth, behind gypsum, and is constantly being renewed. No synthetic ingredients are added, and mineral paints require far less energy and processing into paint than ordinary paints. Perhaps the most sustainable feature is the added lifespan of mineral paints, which can last 5—10 times longer than acrylic paints—meaning less maintenance and fewer repaints. Longer lasting translates directly into sustainability.
Both latex and acrylic paints are made from plastic resins and are not breathable or permeable. While they are suitable for wood, these nonbreathing paints are not suitable for masonry. All masonry building materials are naturally porous. Materials such as stone, brick, stucco, and concrete allow internal moisture to escape, keeping the building material naturally drier. Masonry paint should never trap moisture, as this can lead to premature degradation of the masonry. In contrast, mineral paints are typically 5-10 times more permeable than masonry paints, meaning that moisture vapor can pass through mineral paints without harming the paint finish. KEIM paints, for example, have a minimum perm rating of 77 perms (out of a scale of 100), which is third-party measured using ASTM standards.
Yes, mineral paints are a premium price per gallon, but when you consider the cost of paint materials over their extended lifespan, they are lower than traditional paints. There is no additional labor cost for applying mineral paints.
Traditionally, painters were trained not to install oil-based or acrylic paints to masonry for fear that the finish would blister, bubble, and peel quickly. Mineral paints are the exception to this rule and have been used in Europe for almost 150 years now to protect and decorate all types of masonry. This European approach is growing in the US.
Mineral paints penetrate to fuse with the masonry—they become a permanent part of the brick, stone, stucco, or concrete. Acrylic paints form a thermoplastic layer on the surface only. In ordinary climates, you can expect a two-coat mineral paint system to last more than 30 years, and it is guaranteed not to fade or peel for 20 years!
No, mineral paints are water-based, easy and safe to use. They can be applied by standard means, brush, roller or airless spray. No special equipment or skill is required. Most professional painters have excellent results on their first mineral project.
Not really. As mentioned, the initial cost is a premium to traditional paints, but there are no other added expenses. They are only available in mineral matte flat finish; there are no semi-gloss or gloss, and they should not be used on wood or plastic building materials.
Keim paints are designed as façade or “house” paints and are not suitable for horizontal or traffic surfaces, without additional protection. The microporous finish is prone to dirt from shoes and is too soft to stand up to high-traffic. Stains like red wine or coffee, too, can stain mineral paint surfaces. It is best to use paints specifically designed for sealing floors.
Masonry is a natural building material derived from the earth. Mineral paints, made from many of the same raw materials, are highly compatible with masonry. When applied, they penetrate the surface, giving a beautiful flat color without a heavy layered appearance. The microporous finish of mineral
paints reflects light in a unique way, resulting in brighter and cleaner exterior surfaces in daylight. When used indoors, mineral wall paints respond remarkably to changes in lighting throughout the day, creating a subtle velvet texture that avoids glare, even in harsh lighting. Some have likened the appearance of mineral painted walls to hand-plastered surfaces due to this velvety texture.
Limewash is also mineral-based, but the binder is pure slaked lime. Limewash is soft, beautiful, and valued for its ability to age and develop a patina more quickly than paint. The soft, antique look of limewash can be created quickly with decorative paint techniques. Limewash is considered reversible (it can be removed by water) for the first few days after application. Mineral silicate paints are made of potassium silicate which penetrates deep into masonry and forms permanent chemical bonds. These are the same bonds that create limestone in the earth’s crust, making it one of the strongest adhesive bonds in nature.
The Cradle to Cradle Products Institute® is an independent agency that aims to transform our linear industrial processes into circular ones by considering all aspects of a product’s life cycle, from creation to disposal and back again. A circular economy ensures that no materials are wasted and everything is reused in an infinite cycle. The institute has collaborated with Keim to assess and improve our paint formulas, sourcing, production, packaging, and even shipping to reduce our environmental impact. Keim is the only paint company worldwide to have 85% of its products certified gold for material health and silver overall. This guarantees that your clients are using the most sustainable, healthy, and safe paints with the lowest overall impact on our planet. Moreover, mineral paints can be returned to the ground without any special treatment, which is not possible with latex or acrylic paints.
For more information, or to ask specific questions, please email us at info@keim.com and we’ll respond promptly with more information.
BE THE MINERAL PAINT EXPERT
Learn more about mineral paints
Healthy,
Climate Positive,
Equitable Made.
Sustainable Design is Non-negotiable.
Keim paints are certified Silver by the Cradle to Cradle Products Innovation Institute and Gold for material health. Trust Keim to deliver the most sustainable and eco-positive paint and stain options. Period.
SET YOUR HOMES APART WITH MINERAL PAINTS
First impressions count, and nothing enhances your home’s curb appeal like a fresh coat of paint. Not only does it look stunning, but it also stands the test of time and significantly increases the value of your property
Add value and beauty
Open doors to environmentally conscious buyers
SUSTAINABLE HOME BUILDING
Designing and building a greener future
The building industry is under pressure to reduce its carbon footprint in both new and existing construction due to the focus on achieving netzero emissions. This process can be costly and challenging, but there are simple strategies to help control costs and support the industry.
Reducing carbon emissions in construction can lead to long-term cost savings. The built environment is responsible for 39% of annual carbon
emissions, including operational carbon, carbon emitted during use, and embodied carbon emitted during the production, transportation, and disposal of construction materials.
A survey by Dodge Construction Network found that over 90% of construction firms receive requests from clients to reduce the amount of embodied carbon in their projects. Shifting towards sustainable building practices can help offset the necessary investment. By prioritizing sustainable materials, methods, and models, the industry can promote sustainability daily.
Working towards reduced emissions requires collaboration among architects, designers, and builders. We will focus on sustainable materials and how natural mineral-based paints can reduce embodied carbon without significantly increasing costs or sacrificing long-term quality and durability. Sustainable construction does not have to be more expensive, especially when pricing strategies, program management, and environmental plans are integrated into the development process from the outset.
KEIM mineral paints are low carbon emitting by design and function
The Parsons School Healthy Materials Lab has designated KEIM mineral paints as Low Carbon Emitting Products.
Minimal carbon is emitted while sourcing and processing natural mineral materials to produce the highest quality mineral silicate paints. The silicification process chemically bonds mineral paints to masonry, consuming carbon from the environment during paint application and curing. With no VOCs or outgassing, only water evaporates during this process.
Choosing longer-lasting materials significantly impacts sustainable building practices. KEIM mineral paints can endure for 20–40 years without refurbishment, making them 3–4 times longer lasting than acrylic/latex paints on similar surfaces. They stand the test of time, even in the harshest climates.
Additionally, excess dried KEIM mineral paints require no special disposal. Their pure mineral nature allows dried paints to be disposed of as solid waste. Our packaging uses recycled materials, and our labels are printed on recycled paper.
Sustainable building is not a trend
Open doors to environmentally conscious buyers
Eco-friendly, sustainable homes are emerging as hot selling features.
A Freddy Mac white paper analyzing energy-efficient, sustainable homes found homes are sold for 3—5 percent more.
1000 real estate agents surveyed in HomeLight’s Top Agent Insights for Summer 2022, 48% said that homebuyers are increasingly prioritizing ecofriendly, energy efficient and sustainability in their home search. Agents nationwide estimage that over the past 12 months, the value these benefits add to a home has increased 25%.
How sustainable features influence home sales
That environmental consciousness is becoming a selling point for homes is clear: In the National Association of Realtors’ 2022 Realtors and Sustainability Report, 63 percent of the surveyed pros said energy efficiency is very valuable in listings. Environmental issues are constantly in the news, energy efficiency is increasingly hom homebuyers’ minds. They will need to invest in sustainable features eventually, so many figure why not buy a home that’s already equipped?
Inflation in every segment of the economy is causing many buyers to be more cost-conscious, which is driving more interest in energy efficiency. “With the rising costs of living, the concept of low maintenance costs is very appealing,” agrees Miami-based HomeLight agent Zachary Dworsky. “It allows for buyers to invest those funds elsewhere.”
Healthy is in demand
See how mineral paints can earn you new customers
Healthy buildings are the new green.
The shift towards environmentally friendly and healthy building materials is no longer a niche trend but a mainstream movement.
From residential homes to commercial spaces, the demand for healthier structures is on the rise. Asbestos once led the charge, but the focus has shifted to eliminating volatile compounds and cancer risks associated with building materials. Innovative companies like Google are leading the way, prioritizing healthier workspaces and materials. Their influence extends beyond their own projects, setting a new standard for architects, contractors, and manufacturers.
Transparency in the chemical makeup of building materials is essential.
Certifications like Cradle to Cradle provide valuable insights into the impact of products on health, wellbeing, and the environment. More than 85% of Keim’s products are Cradle-to-Cradle certified with a Gold Certification for Material Health, setting a high bar for the industry.Real estate developers are also recognizing the importance of offering “clean” and healthy homes and buildings. Scientifically proven standards not only make occupants feel better but also give developers a competitive edge.
If you’re hesitant about embracing this change, remember this: being an early adopter of healthy building materials gives companies a distinct advantage. As the demand for healthier buildings continues to grow, embracing these changes now will position us at the forefront of the industry.