Chalk paint and fusion mineral paint have both a water-based formula that is known for its fast dry time and matte finish.
Mineral paint has better durability, is easier to apply, adheres better, has better moisture-resistance, is easier to clean, and has a smoother finish than chalk paint.
Chalk paint is easier to distress than mineral paint.
What is Chalk Paint?
Chalk paint is a water-based paint created by Annie Sloan known for its matte dry and textured finish with a chalky feel.
The chalk paint formula consists of solvent (water), binders (Plasters of Paris), and pigments (or colorants). It’s often used for distressing as it creates a vintage (or old) appearance when sanded.
Chalk paint has over 40 different color shades that you can mix and create a unique color shade. However, the paint isn’t as durable and won’t last long on outdoor or busy surfaces.
What is Fusion Mineral Paint?
Fusion mineral paint is a brand of water-based acrylic paint known for its smooth, colorful, and durable finish.
It’s used over different interior surfaces as it’s easy to apply, dries fast, and it’s a self-leveling paint that doesn’t need an undercoat to adhere.
Mineral paint creates a durable finish that is resistant to wear and tear, stains, and fading.
Chalk Paint vs Mineral Paint
The differences between chalk paint and mineral paint are listed below.
Durability
Mineral paint is more durable than chalk paint as it’s formulated with more protective additives that make its finish more resistant to moisture, wear and tear, and chipping.
Chalk paint finish isn’t durable as it has a simple formula with no protective additives.
Paint Application
Mineral paint is easier to apply as it doesn’t require prep work and has better surface adhesion. Chalk paint is also easy to apply, but it requires prep work before applying it.
Viscosity
Chalk paint and mineral paint have a thin viscosity as they have a water-based formula and few additives.
Adhesion
Mineral paint has better surface adhesion than chalk paint as it’s a self-leveling paint that adheres to all surface types without a primer or undercoat.
Chalk paint has good surface adhesion but doesn’t adhere over glossy surfaces without a primer.
Paint Distressing
Chalk paint is easier to distress and get a unique (or vintage) appearance than mineral paint.
However, you can distress both paints with sandpaper to get a distressed appearance.
Water Resistance
Mineral paint is more water resistant than chalk paint as it has more protective additives. However, both paints can’t withstand high water amounts and will get removed if exposed to constant water. You must seal both paints with a water-resistant sealer when applying them outdoors.
Cleaning and Maintenance
Mineral paint is easier to clean and maintain than chalk paint as it’s more wear and tear and stain resistant. You can clean both paints with a slightly damped rag.
Sealing
You don’t have to seal chalk paint or mineral paint when applied over interior surfaces. However, you must seal both paints when applied over exterior surfaces exposed to constant water.
Paint Smoothness
Mineral paint has a smoother finish than chalk paint.
Which Paint Do You Need?
Before choosing a paint, consider the following things.
- Painting Experience: Use mineral paint if you are inexperienced as it’s easier to apply.
- Distress Finish: Use chalk paint if you want a distressed finish as it’s easier to apply.
- Clean Up: Use mineral paint as it’s easier to clean.
Related Read: Chalk vs Latex Paint?
