New KEIM CPD: Breathable Coating Systems

3 days ago
2 min read

KEIM Australia has launched a new free Formal CPD on Archify: Breathable Coating Systems.

Designed for architects, designers, specifiers and construction professionals, this CPD explores how moisture becomes trapped in buildings, the issues this can cause over time, and how breathable mineral silicate coating systems offer a different approach to conventional paint.

The course is available to stream now on Archify and contributes 1 Formal CPD point.

Why breathable coating systems matter

Moisture inside buildings is not always visible, but its effects can be significant.

When moisture becomes trapped within walls or building materials, it can lead to far more than cosmetic surface issues. It may affect coating performance, increase the risk of mould, compromise the longevity of materials and contribute to maintenance problems that could have been avoided through better specification choices.

In many buildings, especially those with mineral substrates, heritage materials or high-performance design requirements, the coating system plays an important role in how moisture is managed.

A coating does not just change the colour or finish of a wall. It can influence how the substrate performs.

What happens when walls cannot breathe?

Conventional paint systems often form a plastic film over the surface. While this may provide coverage, it can also limit vapour permeability.

When walls are unable to release moisture effectively, water vapour can become trapped beneath the coating or within the substrate. Over time, this can contribute to blistering, peeling, mould growth, substrate deterioration and recurring maintenance issues.

This is particularly important in environments where moisture movement is already a consideration, including masonry buildings, rendered surfaces, heritage projects, high-humidity interiors and façades exposed to changing weather conditions.

A different approach with mineral silicate paints

Mineral silicate paints work differently.

Rather than forming a plastic film over the surface, mineral paints work with the substrate. KEIM mineral silicate coatings chemically bond with mineral surfaces through a process called silicification, creating a durable, vapour-permeable finish.

This allows the wall to remain breathable while still delivering long-term protection, colour stability and a naturally mineral appearance.

The result is a coating system that supports the performance of the building material, rather than simply sitting on top of it.

What the CPD covers

In Breathable Coating Systems, KEIM Australia explores the relationship between moisture, substrates and coating specification.

The CPD covers:

How moisture gets trapped in buildings
The issues caused by trapped moisture
What breathable coatings are
The components of mineral paints
The benefits of mineral silicate systems
Where mineral paint can be used in future projects

The session is designed to help specifiers better understand the role coating systems can play in long-term building performance, durability and healthier internal environments.

Who is this CPD for?

This CPD is suitable for architects, interior designers, building designers, specifiers, sustainability consultants and construction professionals who want to better understand breathable coating systems and their role in material performance.

It is particularly relevant for those working with: