With the arrival of the monsoon, walls in homes and buildings often face a range of problems, including dampness, fungal growth, salt deposits and peeling paint. Excessive moisture not only damages the appearance of walls but can also have a negative impact on indoor environments and building materials if left untreated for a long time.

As a result, homeowners are increasingly looking beyond colour and shade when choosing paints for the monsoon season. Instead, they are showing greater interest in technology-driven paints designed to address specific wall-related problems and provide enhanced protection.

The market now offers a variety of paints featuring anti-fungal, water-resistant, alkali-resistant, weatherproof and heat-reflective technologies. At the same time, light shades such as off-white, cream and beige are becoming increasingly popular for making indoor spaces appear brighter and more comfortable.

In particular, the use of silk, eggshell and other soft-finish paints is gaining popularity as homeowners seek to create a brighter atmosphere inside their homes during the cloudy and often gloomy monsoon weather.

Technology Playing a Growing Role in Wall Protection

The modern paint industry is increasingly focusing not only on aesthetics but also on durability, health protection and environmental considerations. In response to changing consumer preferences and the needs of modern housing, paint manufacturers are introducing a wide range of technology-based products.

Anti-Fungal and Moisture-Resistant Paints

Excessive moisture during the monsoon increases the risk of fungal and mould growth on walls. The problem is particularly common in poorly ventilated rooms, walls near bathrooms and areas exposed to persistent dampness.

In such situations, anti-fungal paints can provide additional protection against fungal growth. However, simply applying a coat of paint does not offer a permanent solution to underlying moisture problems.

If a wall suffers from water seepage, leaking pipes or construction-related defects, the source of the problem must first be identified and repaired. After that, applying an appropriate primer and suitable paint can help improve the durability and protection of the wall.

Low and Zero VOC Paints

Health and indoor air quality are also becoming increasingly important considerations when choosing interior paints. As a result, the use of low-VOC (Volatile Organic Compounds) and zero-VOC paints is gaining popularity.

These paints contain comparatively lower levels of volatile organic compounds, which can help reduce strong odours after painting and minimise the presence of certain harmful chemicals in indoor air.

Many consumers are now paying greater attention to these factors when selecting paints for homes with children, elderly residents or people who may be sensitive to indoor air quality. The demand for healthier paint products is also growing in schools, hospitals, offices and other indoor spaces.

Heat-Reflective or Cooling Technology

The use of heat-reflective or cooling paints is also increasing as homeowners and building owners look for ways to manage indoor temperatures during hot weather.

These paints are designed to reflect a portion of solar radiation, helping reduce the amount of heat absorbed by exterior walls. Depending on the product, building design, construction materials and environmental conditions, such technologies may help reduce indoor temperatures by several degrees.

As a result, they may contribute to a more comfortable indoor environment and potentially reduce dependence on air-conditioning systems, helping to manage energy consumption over the long term.

Washable and Stain-Resistant Paints

Walls in children’s rooms, kitchens, dining areas and frequently used spaces are often more vulnerable to stains and dirt. Washable or stain-resistant paints are therefore becoming increasingly popular, as they allow common marks and dirt to be cleaned more easily.

Meanwhile, certain anti-bacterial paints may help reduce the growth of specific types of microorganisms on painted surfaces. However, such products should not be considered a substitute for regular cleaning and proper hygiene practices. Rather, they provide an additional layer of protection.

Paint Prices Vary by Quality and Technology

Paint prices in the market vary depending on the brand, quality, shade, pack size, coverage and technology used.

In general, economy or basic interior paints are priced at around Tk 250 to Tk 400 per litre. Mid-range plastic or acrylic emulsions may cost between Tk 350 and Tk 600 per litre.

Premium interior, washable and silk-finish paints can cost around Tk 550 to Tk 1,000 per litre or more. For exterior walls, mid-range exterior paints generally cost between Tk 450 and Tk 750 per litre.

Premium weatherproof, heat-reflective and other technologically advanced exterior paints may cost Tk 700 to Tk 1,000 per litre or more.

However, consumers should not consider only the price per litre when choosing paint. It is equally important to calculate the total amount of paint required for a specific surface and how long the coating is expected to remain effective.

A cheaper paint that requires frequent repainting may ultimately result in higher maintenance costs over the long term.

How to Choose Paints on a Limited Budget

When painting a home on a limited budget, experts recommend identifying the actual problems affecting the walls rather than focusing solely on brand name, glossy finish or low price.

According to A.S.M. Faisal, Head of Business at Rainbow Paints, the first priority for consumers with limited budgets should be to address the underlying problems of the walls and select paint technology according to specific requirements.

He said choosing paint solely on the basis of low price or visual appeal could increase future repair and repainting costs. If walls have dampness, cracks or water seepage issues, these problems should first be repaired before applying suitable paint from a trusted and quality-controlled brand.

According to his recommendations, low-VOC paints may be suitable for bedrooms, while washable or easy-to-clean paints can be prioritised for kitchens and children’s rooms. Anti-fungal paints are preferable for damp environments, while weatherproof or weather-resistant paints should be considered for exterior walls.

Health and Beauty Both Matter in Modern Paint Choices

Consumer preferences in the housing sector are also changing. In the past, colour and visual appeal were the primary considerations when selecting wall paints. Today, durability, health protection, environmentally friendly technologies and ease of maintenance are becoming equally important.

The use of eco-friendly and technology-driven paints is particularly increasing among families with children, hospitals, educational institutions and modern residential and commercial buildings. Architects and interior designers are also increasingly selecting paints based on the building’s purpose, location and surrounding environmental conditions.

Experts say that choosing a wall colour should not be based solely on which shade looks attractive. Factors such as wall moisture levels, building location, exposure to sunlight, direct rainfall, room usage and the needs of residents should all be taken into consideration.

Therefore, protecting walls during the monsoon requires more than simply applying a fresh coat of paint. Proper surface preparation, repairing cracks, preventing water seepage and applying the right primer are equally important.

With proper preparation and the use of high-quality, purpose-specific technology-driven paints, homeowners can not only preserve the beauty of their walls for longer but also potentially reduce long-term maintenance and repair costs.