EN 13300 Paints and Varnishes - Interior Wall and Ceiling Paints and Varnishes - Classification

The European standard “EN 13300 Paints and varnishes - Interior wall and ceiling paints and varnishes - Classification” describes a general system for classifying interior wall and ceiling paints and varnishes for decorating new and old, painted and unpainted surfaces.

For the purposes of this standard, the following terms and definitions apply:

Decoration: These are processes carried out to change or restore the appearance of a surface. The function of these processes includes, for example, color, gloss, texture, and similar characteristics.
Paint: A pigmented coating material that forms an opaque, dry film when applied to a surface, and has protective, decorative, or special technical properties.
Varnish: A transparent coating material.

In general, interior wall and ceiling paints and varnishes are classified as specified in this standard:

Classification according to end use: Interior wall and ceiling paints and varnishes are classified into two categories:
Decoration
Special features
Classification according to binder chemical type: Classification according to binder chemical type is derived from the binder component, which determines the characteristic properties of the final coating system. The binder chemical type should be given using terms such as:
Acrylic resin, vinyl resin, alkyd resin, epoxy resin
Hydraulic lime, cement, silicate

This list of terms is not exhaustive to allow for the identification of additional binders as advancements in coating technology emerge. The quality of an interior coating material does not depend solely on the types of binders used. The quantity of binders or other components may be of greater importance.

Classification by brightness: This classification is based on the specular brightness values at 60 degrees or 85 degrees when tested using the method described in the EN ISO 2813 standard (as shown in the table titled Classification by specular brightness).

If the reflection measured at 60 degrees is below 10, the measurement should be repeated at 85 degrees. The value obtained at 85 degrees determines the classification.

In practice, the level of gloss achieved depends on the condition and nature of the substrate. Gloss is not measurable on textured surfaces of coarse-grained coatings.

Classification according to largest particle size: This classification is based on the size of the largest particles present in significant quantities, which will affect the texture of the coating system, according to the following groups:
S1 fine: Up to 100 µm, as defined according to EN ISO 1524 standard.
S2 medium: Up to 300 µm as defined according to EN ISO 787-7 or EN ISO 787-18 standards.
S3 coarse: Up to 1500 µm as defined according to EN ISO 787-7 or EN ISO 787-18 standards.
Classification according to wet scrub resistance should be evaluated by measuring the coating's resistance to repeated cleaning (Table titled Classification according to wet scrub resistance). This is measurable only on coatings applied to smooth, non-textured, or rough surfaces, where the largest grain size (granularity) is less than 100 µm.

The test method described in the EN ISO 11998 standard has an ambiguity, as indicated in the table titled "Uncertainty regarding wet surface resistance classes". This can result in two or more identical samples of a coating material being classified into two different classes.

Coverage for white or light-colored opaque paints: The covering power of a coating is determined according to the procedure described in the EN ISO 6504-3 standard. It is classified according to the H10 value given in the table entitled "Classification according to opacity".

The EN 13300 standard provides a standardized classification system for water-based paints, varnishes, and coating systems used for the decoration and protection of interior walls and ceilings, both on new and previously painted surfaces. It helps manufacturers, professionals, and consumers to objectively compare products based on measurable performance criteria rather than vague marketing claims.

The defined classes are not a definitive quality ranking; a higher class does not always imply "better" overall, but rather allow for informed selection depending on the specific application. For example, high-traffic areas requiring strong cleanability versus low-traffic decorative surfaces.

The main classification criteria are as follows:

Expiration date:
Decoration
Special features (e.g., mold-resistant, high durability)
Type of binding chemical (the list may expand as technology develops):
Acrylic resin
Vinyl resin
Alkyd resin
Silicates
Cement-based
MISCELLANEOUS
Brightness level (measured at 60 or 85 degrees according to EN ISO 2813 standard):
G1 Brightness: Angle 60 degrees, brightness value at least 60.
G2 Medium brightness: Angle 60 degrees, brightness level between 10-60.
G2 Medium brightness: Angle 85 degrees, brightness value at least 10.
G3 Matte: Angle 85 degrees, gloss level between 5-10.
G4 is completely matte. Angle 85 degrees, brightness level maximum 5.
Maximum particle size: Determined by the particle size of the filler/extender materials (EN ISO 1524 standard). Classes range from fine (class 1) to coarse (higher classes).
Wet scrubbing resistance (the most important durability criterion, EN ISO 11998 standard). Measures resistance to repeated wet cleaning/abrasion. Film thickness loss after 200 cycles according to classes is as follows:
Class 1: Maximum 5 μm
Class 2: 25-20 μm
Class 3: 20-70 μm
Class 4: at least 70 μm
Class 5: Not abrasion resistant.

Class 1 provides the highest resistance (ideal for kitchens, hallways, and children's rooms), while Class 5 provides very low resistance (basic decorative paints).

Coverage (opacity, for white/light opaque paints): Measured as the contrast ratio after application at the specified spread rate (EN ISO 6504-3 standard). Classes range from 1 (highest coverage) to lower classes.
Cleanability: Evaluates the ease with which stains and marks can be removed (typically associated with wet scrubbing ratings).

Many reputable paint manufacturers voluntarily label their interior emulsions according to the EN 13300 standard.

For many years, our organization, with its competent and experienced staff, has been understanding the needs of its clients, providing the advanced testing services they require, and assisting them in the establishment, implementation, and improvement of management systems. Within this framework, we also provide testing services in accordance with the EN 13300 standard.