Glossary - M
M/S
Abbreviation for mild steel.
Making good
Carrying out the requisite repairs to a surface to provide a sound surface for painting.
Match boarding
Boards jointed at their sides with a tongued and grooved joint.
Matt finish
A flat finish with little or no sheen.
Medium
A liquid component of paint in which pigments are dispersed and which forms part of the dry paint film.
Metal spraying
Describes the process of spraying molten zinc or aluminium on to grit-blasted steel to provide protection against corrosion.
Metamerism
An apparent change in colour under different lighting conditions.
Mica
Mineral silicates used in the manufacture of textured paints.
Microporous
A term used to describe paints which are permeable to water vapour allowing moisture to dry out through the paint coating without disruption of the paint film.
Mildewcides
Chemical agent in quality paint that destroys mildew - a common problem in humid climates.
Millscale
Iron oxides, usually black in colour, which can be present in a complete layer on new steelwork. Although often firmly attached originally it can become loose and thus give rise to paint failure. Millscale should be completely removed prior to painting.
Mist coat
A thin and thinly applied coat of paint, usually emulsion on bare plaster, which acts as a 'sealer'.
Mitre
A joint between two pieces at an angle to one another so that the line of the joint bisects the angle.
Mordant
Solution or preparation applied to a surface to assist paint to adhere thereon, e.g. on galvanised iron.
Mortar
A mixture of lime or cement and sand used as the jointing mixture for bricks or stone.
Mortise
A cavity cut into a piece of wood or stone to receive a corresponding projection (called a tenon) so as to form a strong joint.
Mullion
The upright frame member or division between the lights of a window or openings in a screen.
Munsell
A system of designating colour by colour, hue and chroma.
Muntin
The vertical framing member or stile between the panels of a door.
Misses
Unfortunately, no. You'll need to thoroughly clean down the surfaces to remove all dirt, grease and surface contaminants. Then rub down with a suitable abrasive and dust off before applying a new coat of paint to the affected area.
Mould growth on inside surfaces
Mould flourishes in conditions of high humidity, poor ventilation and on surfaces with a high moisture content. It can be very destructive to paint coatings and needs to be eradicated before applying paint. Treat affected areas with Weathershield Multi-Surface Fungicidal Wash. Leave for 24 hours, wash down to remove residues and allow to dry thoroughly. If necessary, repeat the treatment.
Mould/algae moss on outside surfaces
Yes, there is a very effective treatment for these types of vegetable growths, which are most likely to occur in damp conditions or on surfaces with a high moisture content.. Before treating, first repair the source of any leaks and check for blocked air bricks and defective or missing DPC. Treat affected areas with Weathershield Multi-Surface Fungicidal Wash. Leave for 24 hours, wash down to remove residues and allow to dry thoroughly before applying coating. Isolated algae patches on a building exterior may indicate structural defects and should be investigated by a reputable builder or building surveyor.
Mud cracking
It has most likely been caused by applying a thick, heavy coat of un-thinned paint to a textured or embossed surface. 'Mud cracking' can also be caused when the air temperature drops rapidly after applying a water-based product, or when over coating an emulsion without leaving sufficient drying time. The solution? Applying one or two thin coats will often successfully fill the cracks.