What does "mil" refer to in the context of paint thickness?

In the context of paint thickness, "mil" specifically refers to one thousandth of an inch. This unit of measurement is commonly used in the paint and coating industry to describe the dry film thickness of a coating. Accurate measurement of film thickness is critical, as it can significantly affect the performance properties of the paint, such as durability, opacity, and weather resistance. By using mils, professionals can ensure they are applying the correct amount of paint to achieve the desired performance and appearance.