New Delhi: A building in Switzerland’s Schwyz, last painted in 1891, has kept its colors intact for over 135 years without repainting or major repairs. It continues to attract visitors as a key local landmark.
The Town Hall in Schwyz stands as a prominent structure known for its historic architecture. Conservation specialists credit its lasting quality to silicate mineral paint applied by KEIM, a German firm established in 1878 and seen as an early leader in the method. The coating merged with the masonry, preventing fading and damage over time.
This Swiss example now influences building decisions in India. Zydex Paints and M3M India Pvt. Ltd. have formed a partnership to apply KEIM Regalan, a similar silicate mineral paint, on premium residential and commercial facades nationwide.
How 19th-Century Paint Has Lasted
Specialists highlight the chemistry behind silicate mineral paints for the Town Hall’s endurance. Unlike acrylic coatings that create a surface film, these paints use liquid potassium silicate and natural pigments. They bond chemically with masonry or plaster to become part of the structure.
The mineral bond provides breathability, water resistance, and fire protection. Mineral pigments resist sunlight breakdown, delivering lasting color and a matte finish that needs little upkeep, as shown in Schwyz.
The Town Hall has required no repainting since the 1891 application by KEIM.
Bringing Mineral Technology To Indian Real Estate
Zydex Paints, which describes itself as India’s leader in silicate mineral paints, will produce and distribute KEIM Regalan in India under exclusive license from KEIMFARBEN.
Industry projections indicate the partnership may yield about Rs 100 crore in painting projects over three years, emphasizing long-term performance. The firms offer a minimum 20-year warranty on film integrity and color retention, exceeding typical acrylic systems that often need recoating sooner.
Dr Moulik Ranka, Managing Director of Zydex Group, noted the focus on mineral science for solutions that address how buildings age. The company anticipates its specialty paints eventually taking about 2% of India’s paints market, valued at Rs 80,000 crore to Rs 1 lakh crore, for a potential Rs 1500-2000 crore opportunity.
Step Toward Long-Term Asset Protection
The agreement signals a shift in Indian real estate toward materials that safeguard assets for decades rather than short-term appearance. Silicate systems permit moisture vapor escape while blocking rain, lowering risks of dampness, algae, and cracks, and reducing maintenance needs.
KEIMFARBEN, founded in 1878, has refined mineral paint methods for nearly 150 years. Through Zydex, the partners aim to change facade choices in India from aesthetics alone to durability, safety, and sustainability.
