Water-Based Coatings Take the Lead: Intercoat’s Message to Industry  

UK-based pioneers in environmentally responsible coating solutions, Intercoat Industrial Paints is urging professionals in the coatings, manufacturing, and construction sectors to fast-track their shift away from solvent-based paints and embrace advanced water-based alternatives. The company points to rising environmental pressures, tougher regulations, and solid business incentives as reasons for acting now.

While solvent-based coatings have long been the industry standard — often relied on for their durability — they are also known for releasing hazardous chemicals such as VOCs (volatile organic compounds) and formaldehydes. Intercoat’s message is clear: the latest water-based technologies are now capable of matching or outperforming their solvent-based counterparts, without the harmful side effects.

“We’re well past the point of gradual change,” said Michael Vann, Managing Director at Intercoat Paints. “Businesses that genuinely value environmental, social and governance principles — and want to remain profitable — need to reconsider their coating systems. Adopting water-based options is no longer just a sustainable choice; it’s a commercially wise one.”

Why Water-Based Is the Smarter Option

Intercoat’s most recent innovations in water-based coatings - aren’t just environmentally safer — they’re engineered to handle real-world demands. The company’s formulations are designed for faster drying, easier application, and reliable performance across a wide range of uses.

“Our research and development team has pushed the boundaries of what water-based products can do,” comments Marketing Manager Anita Chumber. The company shared in a joint statement. “The coatings we’re delivering today stick better, last longer, and covers more evenly — all while significantly cutting down on VOC emissions and worker exposure to hazardous materials.”

Real-World Business Benefits

Switching to water-based products comes with practical, bottom-line improvements. Intercoat outlines several key gains companies can expect:

• Lower Insurance Costs: Less flammability and lower toxicity translate to reduced risk profiles.
• Faster Turnaround: Shorter drying times speed up project delivery.
• Regulatory Ease: New coatings help companies stay compliant as laws around emissions and safety tighten.
• Operational Efficiency: Water clean-up, safer handling, and fewer safety procedures reduce day-to-day complications and costs.
• Safer Work Environments: Reduced fumes and health risks support employee well-being.
• Reputation & Trust: Companies seen to be leading on sustainability earn more trust from clients and consumers.
• Simplified Waste Handling: Disposal is less costly and less hazardous when dealing with water-based leftovers.
• No external factory storage requirements.

“Clients are increasingly looking for suppliers who can prove they’re environmentally responsible,” Michael Vann added. “Firms that make the switch early will stand out and stay ahead as both market expectations and legislation evolve.”

Introducing Intercoat Open Days This Autumn

This September 2025, Intercoat is opening its doors for a series of Open Days designed to support companies making the transition from solvent-based to water-based coatings.

Anita Chumber, Marketing Manager at Intercoat, commented: There’s a growing demand for sustainable practices in our industry, and Intercoat is proud to be leading that change. These Open Days are a great opportunity for businesses to experience firsthand how water-based coatings can meet performance demands while supporting environmental goals.”

What Attendees Can Expect:

• Meet-the-Team: Speak directly with the chemists and engineers behind Intercoat’s technologies.
• Product Showcases: Preview the Aqualine range and see the coatings in real-time use.
• Live Demonstrations: Watch how these products behave during actual application and drying cycles.
• Q&A Sessions: Ask technical questions and get straightforward answers.
• Switching Support: Learn how to transition away from solvent-based products smoothly.
• Industry Networking: Meet others facing similar challenges and exploring similar solutions.
• Myth Busting: Get clarity on common misconceptions about water-based coatings.

“We’ve seen a lot of hesitation based on outdated assumptions,” said Colin Tilly, Technical Service Manager at Intercoat. “Our Open Days are about showing the industry that modern water-based coatings are just as tough, just as good-looking, with quicker drying times and safer to use — for people and the planet.”

Looking Ahead: A Sustainable Shift That Pays Off

As environmental awareness increases and regulatory frameworks tighten across the globe, Intercoat believes the future of the coatings industry depends on bold action and innovative thinking.

“Responsibility and profitability aren’t in conflict anymore,” Mr Vann concluded. “Companies that lead on sustainability will also lead in customer loyalty, operational savings, and long-term growth.”

To register for Intercoat’s Open Days this September, or to learn more about the new Aqualine Range follow this link https://bit.ly/40D5RQRFor more information on Intercoat Paints and its full range of advanced water-based coatings, visit https://bit.ly/4lBQD6T or call the team on 01922 638821