Glossary - D
Dado
The plain face of the body of a pedestal hence the deep border or band around the lower part of a room wall.
Damp course
A layer of slate lead or bituminous composition built into a wall to prevent damp rising from the ground or soaking in from a ledge or parapet.
Discolouration
Any change from the original colour can be caused by a variety of factors e.g. atmospheric pollution ageing of oil based paints.
Dispersion
The way pigment particles are distributed finely and evenly throughout the paint medium.
Dispersion
The suspension of very fine particles of solid pigment in oil varnish or other medium.
Distemper
A term used for the broad classification of water thinned coatings which were generally used for walls and ceilings before the advent of modern emulsion paints.
Door furniture
Term covering the fittings to a door viz. Handles finger-plates etc.
Drying
The solidification of an applied paint film. Emulsions dry by evaporation of water oil based paints dry by evaporation of solvent followed by oxidation of the oil content.
Drying time
The time required for an applied paint film to reach its full degree of hardness.
Durability
The degree to which paint withstands the destructive effects on the environment to which it is exposed especially harsh weather conditions. Durability has two aspects. Its protective properties safeguard the substrate from degradation. Its decorative properties allow the paint to retain its attractive appearance.
Dutch metal
A cheaper alternative to gold leaf consisting basically of copper.
Dampness in walls
Dampness can be caused by any number of problems, from broken rainwater pipes to defective pointing in brickwork. Whatever the source, it needs to be identified and cured. Before painting, the surface must be completely dry. If a water stain remains on a dry surface that is to be painted, first touch in locally with Dulux Alkali Resisting Primer. Areas that are to remain unpainted, such as brick or stonework, can be protected with Dulux Weathershield Waterseal.
Denatured (grey) wood
No. Failing to completely remove wood that has been exposed to weather and sunlight is a common cause of paint failure. Use a sander to remove the top surface layer of the grey wood, making sure that the surface is cleaned back to new sound wood. Prime all bare wood with Dulux Primer or Basecoat before re-painting.
Dust/bittiness on new paintwork
This can be caused by dust and dirt in the air settling on the paint surface; by using a dirty paint brush, or by stirring skin into the paint. In either case, let the paint dry and harden, then rub down using wet and dry abrasive paper and warm water with a bit of detergent. Rinse thoroughly with clean water and allow to dry before repainting. Use only good quality paint brushes and wash out with a little white spirit, making sure the brush is completely dry before starting work. Avoid stirring skin into the paint by straining into a clean kettle before use.