Farrow & Ball Down Pipe No.26 Eggshell Paint, 2.5L
Modern Eggshell is Farrow & Ball’s toughest interior finish, adding colour and protection to wood,...Modern Eggshell is Farrow & Ball’s toughest interior finish, adding colour and protection to wood, metal, and concrete surfaces. This ultra-durable eggshell is tough enough for floors, and it can also be used throughout the home on skirting, doors, kitchen cabinets, furniture, and radiators. A dramatic lead grey Down Pipe, a dark lead grey, has definite blue undertones to it which deepen the complexity of the finish. Originally inspired by the colour used to paint downpipes and guttering, it has been embraced for use inside the home with fanatical zeal! This daringly dark hue is fabulous as a background to art, and extremely effective for use in halls to create a deeply dramatic entrance to the home.
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Product Information
Full details
This guide is for DIY enthusiasts and homeowners looking for a durable and sophisticated paint finish for high-traffic areas. The key benefit is its extreme durability and elegant, deep grey hue. A potential caveat is that the dark colour may require more coats for full coverage on lighter surfaces. Farrow & Ball's Down Pipe No.26 Eggshell is a tough, versatile paint designed for wood, metal, and concrete, suitable for floors, skirting boards, doors, kitchen cabinets, furniture, and radiators. Its defining characteristic is the dramatic lead grey colour with subtle blue undertones, inspired by traditional downpipe finishes.
All features
Colour
Grey
Model Part Number
No.26
Brand
Farrow & Ball
Extended Product Information
FAQs
What is the sheen level of Farrow & Ball Eggshell paint?
Farrow & Ball's Modern Eggshell has a soft, low sheen of approximately 20% sheen, providing a subtle satin finish that is less reflective than gloss.
Can I use Down Pipe Eggshell on exterior surfaces?
No, Farrow & Ball's Modern Eggshell is specifically designed for interior use only. For exterior projects, use Farrow & Ball's Exterior Eggshell.
How do I clean painted surfaces with Down Pipe Eggshell?
Painted surfaces can be cleaned with a soft, damp cloth. For tougher marks, a mild detergent can be used sparingly, followed by a wipe with a clean, damp cloth.
How many coats of Down Pipe Eggshell do I need?
Generally, two coats are recommended for optimal coverage and colour depth. However, if painting over a very light or contrasting colour, a third coat may be necessary to achieve a uniform finish.
Is this paint suitable for children's furniture?
Yes, Farrow & Ball paints are water-based and low in VOCs. The durable and washable finish of Modern Eggshell makes it a safe and practical choice for children's furniture.
What is the drying time for Down Pipe Eggshell?
The drying time is typically 2-4 hours between coats, and it takes approximately 10-14 days for the paint to fully cure and achieve its maximum hardness.
Can I use Down Pipe Eggshell on radiators?
Yes, Farrow & Ball Modern Eggshell is suitable for use on radiators. Ensure the radiator is clean, dry, and not excessively hot before painting.
Troubleshooting
Paint appears patchy or uneven after application
Ensure adequate surface preparation and that the surface is free from contaminants. Apply a second coat if necessary, allowing proper drying time between coats. Ensure paint is thoroughly stirred before and during application.
Paint is not adhering well to the surface
The surface may not have been properly prepared. Ensure it is clean, dry, and free from grease or dust. For bare surfaces, a suitable primer must be applied first. For glossy surfaces, a light sanding is often required for adhesion.
Brush marks are visible
Use a high-quality brush and apply paint evenly, using long, smooth strokes. Avoid over-brushing. Ensure the paint is not applied too thickly. Consider using a roller for larger areas.
Colour coverage seems low
Dark colours like Down Pipe may require more coats than lighter shades, particularly when covering a significantly different base colour. Apply additional thin coats until desired opacity is achieved, allowing proper drying time between each.
Pros and Cons
Pros
Highly durable and resistant to scuffs and scratches
Suitable for a wide range of surfaces, offering great versatility
The deep grey colour provides a sophisticated and modern look
Easy to clean and maintain, making it practical for busy homes
Can be used on floors, adding a unique design element
Cons
Dark colour may require multiple coats for full opacity, especially over light colours
Requires proper surface preparation for optimal adhesion and finish
Dries to a specific eggshell sheen which may not suit all aesthetic preferences
As a premium paint, it can be more expensive than standard emulsions
Setup, Compatibility & Care
Preparation:
Ensure surfaces are clean, dry, and free from dust, grease, and flaking paint.
For unpainted surfaces, apply a suitable Farrow & Ball primer.
For previously painted surfaces, lightly sand and clean before application.
Application:
Stir the paint thoroughly before use.
Apply with a good quality brush or roller.
Typically, two coats are recommended for best results, especially for the Down Pipe colour.
Allow adequate drying time between coats (usually 2-4 hours).
Compatibility:
Suitable for wood, metal, and concrete.
Ideal for floors, skirting boards, doors, kitchen cabinets, furniture, and radiators.
Care:
Clean spills and marks gently with a soft, damp cloth.
For stubborn marks, use a mild detergent and water solution, then wipe clean with a damp cloth.