History of KEIM
For more than 145 years KEIM has improved built environments across the world with our non-toxic, eco-friendly mineral silicate paints that offer a unique depth of colour not matched in ordinary latex/acrylic paints.
In 1878, A.W. Keim developed the first silicate paint fit for practical usage. It consists of a powder component with mineral colour pigments and fillers, together with a liquid component: potassium silicate as the binding agent. The result: A high-quality silicate paint system that offers performance, durability, protection and colour-fastness that remains unsurpassed.
What was truly groundbreaking about A.W. Keim’s invention was the bond between paint and brickwork. KEIM’s classic mineral paint was able to strengthen and expand its position as the leading mineral paint for facades due to consistent further development of the product’s positive properties and targeted adaptation to various types of substrates.
Buildings decorated with KEIM paints in the 19th century are still in excellent condition today. Amongst such examples are the White Eagle Inn in Stein am Rhein (1891), the City Hall in Schwyz (1891) and facades in Oslo (1895) and Traunstein, Germany (1891).
Why choose mineral paint over acrylic paint?
The answer is simple; KEIM mineral paints contain no biocides, no solvents, no plasticizers and zero VOCs, plus they are Cradle to Cradle (C2C) certified, meeting the worlds most rigorous sustainability standards.
KEIM mineral paints are the healthiest paints for people and planet alike.
How do Mineral Paints work?
KEIM mineral paints have a completely mineral basis, making them eco friendly and breathable. The "waterglass" binder is a silicate that forms a chemical bond with mineral substrates such as stone, render and concrete. The result is an extremely durable bond between the substrate and wall paint or facade paint, which is far more resistant than the purely superficial adhesion of acrylic paints.
The most important ingredient influencing the quality of a paint is the binder. It is responsible for adhesion, weathering protection, breathability and durability as well as protection of the lightfast pigments. The binder is also responsible for many of the paint's properties and determines the length of the renovation cycle of a facade. Paints with mineral binders offer an advantage in this respect. The main difference is the principle of adhesion: mineral binders react chemically with the substrate, whilst organic binders adhere only by "adhesive bonding".
It is the binder in particular that divides the world of paints into two fundamental directions: mineral and petrochemical (acrylic) technology. The latter uses binders based on polymers, i.e. plastics, which are produced from crude oil in energy-consuming synthesis processes. These "organic" binder particles are the core of emulsion paints or silicone resin paints. After drying, they form a more or less impervious paint film on the surface.
Economic Efficiency
This is where mineral paints really pay off. Although at first glance our products might seem more expensive, however once you take into account our two-coat system standard and 25 year warranty, it becomes clear that KEIM mineral paints are the most cost-effective option.
In the building industry, quality often proves the smarter, more economical choice. KEIM’s silicate paints bond chemically with surfaces like stone, render, and concrete, creating a tough, long-lasting finish - lasting double the time span to conventional acrylic paints.
Sustainable mineral coatings minimise maintenance, preserve both appearance and function, and help maintain a building’s value. KEIM colours are timeless, UV-stable, and blend naturally with their surroundings for decades. While good facade paints may cost a little more upfront, materials are only a fraction of total decorating costs; labour and long-term durability are what really count.
Longer-lasting paints also mean fewer renovations and a smaller environmental footprint.
Our Team
FULL NAME
FULL NAME
FULL NAME
FULL NAME
FULL NAME
FULL NAME
KEIM Showroom
At KEIM Mineral Paints Australia, our culture is shaped by our heritage of German craftsmanship and our commitment to meeting the unique needs of the Australian built environment.
We bring global expertise to local projects, combining proven mineral paint technology with an understanding of Australia’s climate, architecture, and sustainability goals.
We are proud to represent KEIM’s international reputation for durability, safety, and ecological responsibility while bringing an approachable, hands-on spirit to our work here in Australia.
OPENING HOURS
Mon - Fri 8:30 am – 5:30 pm
Saturday CLOSED
Sunday CLOSED
ADDRESS
7/19 McCauley St
Matraville NSW 2036
(02) 9748 7160