What do pigments in paint primarily provide?

Pigments in paint play a crucial role primarily by providing color and substrate hiding. They consist of finely ground particles that disperse in the paint and, when applied, create a film that gives the paint its visual characteristics. The color of the pigment determines the hue of the paint, while the opacity or hiding power is essential for covering the surface beneath. Effective pigments can conceal the underlying material, which is particularly important for achieving uniform color and ensuring that imperfections are masked.

While pigments do contribute to other properties like enhancing consistency and flow as well as providing some filler characteristics, the fundamental function of pigments remains their ability to impart color and provide hiding capabilities. This makes them a vital component in achieving the desired appearance and performance of the finished paint.