Efflorescence–  A deposit of salts that remains on the surface of masonry, brick or plaster when water has evaporated.

Eggshell-  A gloss range between flat and semi-gloss. The sheen closely resembles the lustre of an eggshell. Note that eggshell is a degree of gloss, not a color.

Emulsify- To disperse (as an oil) in an emulsion.

Emulsion Paint- Water base paint with an emulsified resin.

Enamel-  A paint that forms an especially smooth, hard film. Enamels may be obtained in a full range of glosses and can be either latex or alkyd (oil). Consumers, however, often associate the term with alkyd (oil-based) products.

Epoxy- Products made from synthetic resin derived from petroleum. Epoxies, which are generally cured by catalysts, are perhaps the most durable of all coatings.

Erosion- The wearing away of a paint film as a result of exposure to the weather.

Etch- Prepare the surface by chemical means to improve the adhesion of coatings.