“What type of interior paint should I use?” – That’s a question we get asked a lot. Picking the right kind of paint for your project can be quite overwhelming given the countless options we have nowadays, but here is a quick guide for your typical paint job:
Interior Walls: latex based paints are usually the safest bet. One thing to consider is the sheen level. High traffic areas, especially those that get exposed to moisture, such as kitchens and bathrooms, usually require paint with a little more gloss: satin, eggshell, or even a semi-gloss finish for example. They are usually easier to clean, but the drawback is that they don’t touch up as easily as a lower sheen such as flat. Another drawback is that glossy finishes also might show imperfections that would probably be hidden if you use a flat paint. Ultimately, it’s a matter of weighing the pros and cons when deciding on a sheen level.
Interior ceilings: Here is an easy one! Stick to a flat latex based paint. Higher sheen levels will make all the flaws on the ceiling surfaces stand out especially if there is a lot of light coming from windows or fixtures in the room.
Doors and trims: Wooden door and trim usually benefit more from oil based paint. They will give you durability, a rich look and a satiny feel. These paints come in all types of sheens, and since we usually want the trim to pop, you can certainly play with a higher sheen level. The most common sheens are satin, eggshell and semi-gloss, with some people even going for a high gloss, but the last one can be tricky to apply. As a rule of thumb, the higher the sheen level the more durability you will have, but then again, it also amplifies imperfections on the surfaces you paint. If smell and the environment are a concern, then you might want to consider a latex based enamel. There are a lot of new latex-based enamels that are environmentally friendly, and perform really well, but if performance is your main concern, stick to the oil-based enamel.
Remember that a using a primer is always a good idea to improve adhesion and paint coverage. Head over to our website if you need more info on which primer to use.
All the major manufacturers, Sherwin-Williams, PPG, Benjamin Moore, Behr, etc. carry good quality latex (acrylics), and oil based paints. These brands can be found in major home improvement and local paint stores.
Painting can be fun but can also be very frustrating and costly if not done correctly. Signature Painting Professionals is located in South Florida. If painting is not your thing, it is ours! Give us a call, text or email.
