What's in Paint? In general terms, all paints have four basic components which impact the properties of the paint. These components are: PIGMENTS Provide color and hiding; some are used to impart bulk at relatively low cost BINDER "binds" the pigment together, and provides film integrity and adhesion LIQUID (or the "carrier")provides desired consistency and makes it possible to apply the pigment and binder to the surface being painted ADDITIVES low-level ingredients that provide specific paint properties such as mildew resistance, defoaming and good flow and leveling