Need expert help on a painting project? Boysen has got your back. Here is a paraphrased version of an inquiry we recently received about perlite and Boysen Acrytex Cast:

We are renovating and need the Boysen brand of perlite to mix with Boysen Acrytex Cast. Where can we purchase it?

There are several things to discuss from this one inquiry. First, what is perlite and does Boysen carry it? Second, what would be the purpose of mixing perlite with Boysen Acrytex Cast? Third, is mixing perlite and Boysen Acrytex correct procedure?

To shed light on these questions, we asked the Boysen Technical Service Department for their expert insight. From their knowledge and expertise, here is a quick guide to perlite, Boysen Acrytex Cast, and Boysen Patching Compound. See why this last one is relevant to the topic in this guide too.

Expert Help: Perlite, Boysen Acrytex Cast, and Boysen Patching Compound | MyBoysen

What is Perlite?

Seasoned and experienced painters will sometimes mix their own putty. They do this by taking construction aggregate materials, like perlite and calcite, and mix it with white paint. This produces a thick, almost clay-like, mixture that is then used to fill minor imperfections. Yes, just like what your store-bought putty is meant for.

Expert Help: Perlite, Boysen Acrytex Cast, and Boysen Patching Compound | MyBoysenIs There Boysen-branded Perlite?

Boysen does not carry perlite. It does, however, have Boysen Patching Compound which is very similar in use and purpose. Boysen Patching Compound is a powder-type material that is combined with latex paint in order to make job site-mixed putty.

Boysen Patching Compound is easier and more convenient than working with aggregates as it already has a set recommended ratio (1-1.5 kg of Patching Compound to latex paint). So, if you wanted to mix your own putty, it takes the guesswork out of the process.

But why did the sender ask for Boysen-branded perlite if there’s no such thing? It’s because a lot of the time, just like how Pinoys wrongly use masilya (putty) and palitada (skimcoat) interchangeably, they also mistakenly say perlite when pertaining to Boysen Patching Compound. We can see why as they are both used to make job site-mixed putty.

Nevertheless, please take note that perlite and Boysen Patching Compound are not the same. Ask for Boysen Patching Compound, not Boysen-branded perlite, at a home depot or hardware store if you would like to mix your own putty.

Expert Help: Perlite, Boysen Acrytex Cast, and Boysen Patching Compound | MyBoysen

What is Boysen Acrytex Cast?

Now, the sender of the inquiry also said they’ll use the perlite (or Boysen Patching Compound) for mixing with Boysen Acrytex Cast. Let’s first discuss what Boysen Acrytex Cast is.

Boysen Acrytex Cast is a putty product in the Boysen Acrytex painting system. This means that if you’re painting your exteriors with Boysen Acrytex paint, this is the accompanying putty you would use. But what would be the purpose of mixing perlite with it? According to Boysen experts, there are two likely reasons why the sender is looking to do so.

  • The sender of the inquiry finds Boysen Acrytex Cast too thin to apply on its own. They may be looking to thicken it for easier application or to correct imperfections that are more than 1 mm in thickness.
  • The sender of the inquiry would like to achieve a textured finish. Adding a powder-like product like Boysen Patching Compound to Boysen Acrytex Cast would result in a fine texture effect when applied to the concrete surface using a spray gun.

Here’s advice from the Boysen experts: If you are looking to correct imperfections on your concrete surface that’s more than 1 mm in thickness, turn to skimcoat instead. Konstrukt Permaplast K 201 High-Performance Acrylic Skimcoat, for example, fixes wall imperfections that are 1mm to 3mm thick. Skimcoat will also help minimize the use of putty afterward. If you’re looking for texture, read on to the next section.

Know the Difference: Skimcoat vs. Putty for Concrete Surfaces | MyBoysen

Should You Mix Perlite with Boysen Acrytex Cast?

It’s best not to, whether it be perlite or Boysen Patching Compound, especially if you’re new to home painting. Boysen Acrytex Cast is a ready-to-use product. You do not need to add anything to it before applying.

If you want to achieve texture using Boysen Acrytex Cast, apply it with a mortar spray gun. Press with a wooden roller where you applied 10 to 15 minutes after spraying. Wet the roller with water to prevent it from sticking to the cast. On the other hand, if you are looking to thin Boysen Acrytex Cast, the appropriate thinner to use would be Boysen Acrytex Reducer.

Learn more about Boysen Acrytex Cast here.

Remember, if you’re unsure, there’s no harm in asking for a little help. Hoping you learned new things about Boysen Patching Compound, Boysen Acrytex Cast, and perlite in this quick guide. Happy painting!

If you have any questions or inquiries about Boysen products, send an email to ask@myboysen.com. You can also call the Boysen Technical Service Department at (02) 8363-9738 local 413 to 418 during office hours for a one-on-one consultation.

Author

Jill is a writer on a continuous journey to learn about paint and share them with you, the reader. She has an interest in the technical side of things but also thoroughly enjoys playing with colors. She likes calm greens, quiet blues, and mellow yellows best.

Write A Comment

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.