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How to Choose the Right Paint for Interior Walls, Trim, and Doors
Author Jessica Ackerman
Painting is by far one of the least expensive home improvements that has the power to completely change the appearance of interior walls, and it is one of the least expensive ways to redecorate. However, if the wrong paint is chosen it can significantly affect the quality of the job and degrade the appearance of the home. Choosing the right color is essential, but choosing the right type of paint for the surface and the locality is of the utmost importance to attain a long lasting finish on interior walls, and to obtain a desirable appearance.
Paint for interior walls comes in a wide variety of finishes from flat to enamel, and they vary according to the amount of light they reflect. The shine factor also makes a big difference in how easy the finish is to clean, and how well it stands up to the test of time and durability. Consider the following types of finishes before shopping for interior paint. Choosing the right high-quality paint for walls, trim, woodwork, and doors will make a huge difference in the overall look of the room.
Enamel
Interior surfaces that take a great deal of abuse are best protected with an enamel finish. Enamel is hard and highly durable, and it is available in latex as well as oil-based interior paints. Consider enamel for doors and other surfaces that take abuse on a regular basis. The shine will not detract from the look of the room, and more importantly you will find that it is exceptionally easy to wipe clean. It will not require repainting or touchups as often as less durable interior choices.
Gloss Varieties
For a smooth durable finish that repels fingerprints, dirt, and other stains, consider choosing interior gloss or high-gloss paint. It is less reflective than enamel, but keep in mind that it will make existing flaws more apparent. Be sure to repair nicks and dents in doors, trim, and woodwork before covering with ordinary gloss or high-gloss paint. It will take a beating, and it will provide a long-lasting washable finish, but it will not hide surface imperfections.
Semi-Gloss
Paint that is less reflective is ideal for interior walls as well as trim, woodwork, and doors in bathrooms, kitchens, and in rooms where little fingers are likely to leave behind prints. Walls and other surfaces finished with semi-gloss paint are easily cleaned, and the surface is durable, but just like regular gloss and high-gloss varieties, semi-gloss interior paint will not hide defects. Always fill in dents, scratches, and other blemishes before painting with semi-gloss latex or oil-based interior paint.
Satin
A satin sheen is one of the most versatile choices since it provides the durability of semi-gloss. The beautiful matte finish is appropriate for all applications including walls, doors, woodwork, and interior trim. This type of paint is not too shiny for interior walls, and it is washable and provides a long-lasting finish. A satin sheen is highly recommended when painting the walls in children's bedrooms and other areas where kids typically play. It is also ideal for kitchen walls since grease and food spatters can be an issue, and it effectively repels moisture and humidity in bathrooms. Choose satin paint for an all-around durable and attractive finish for interior walls, woodwork, trim, and doors.
Eggshell
A genuine eggshell has a very slight natural sheen, hence the name eggshell when referring to paint with a delicate luster. It is washable and durable, and it effectively hides slight imperfections in walls, doors, trim, and interior woodwork. Choose paint with an eggshell finish for kitchens, utility rooms, bathrooms, entryways, and children's bedrooms and play areas. It is an excellent selection for those who do not want a lot of shine but prefer the ease in cleaning provided by paint with a smooth surface.
Flat
Interior wall coating without any type of sheen is considered flat. It looks lovely on walls, but it is not ideal in homes with children or in high-traffic areas. Fingerprints are almost impossible to remove, and when rubbing and scrubbing, the paint is more likely to come off than the prints. However, flat paint is ideal for ceilings and areas that do not take a lot of abuse, as well as areas with slight imperfections. It hides existing scratches and slight dents, but it will not hold up well to repeated washing and scrubbing.
Quality Counts
The old saying, less is more does not apply when considering paint. Whatever type of paint you choose for interior applications, keep in mind that quality is of vital importance. Paint that might cost a little less in price will cost more in the long run if it requires subsequent coats, and it will detract from the overall look of the room if it is inferior in quality. Choose high-quality paint for interior walls, doors, trim, and woodwork, and it will not be necessary to paint as often. It will go on evenly, and it will provide a durable covering for walls and other painted surfaces for years to come.
About The Author:
Jessica Ackerman is a contributing writer for www.walldecorandhomeaccents.com where you can find a great selection of wall décor products such as metal wall art , wall candle holders and wrought iron wall décor.
Posted on www.painterforum.com
Author Jessica Ackerman
Painting is by far one of the least expensive home improvements that has the power to completely change the appearance of interior walls, and it is one of the least expensive ways to redecorate. However, if the wrong paint is chosen it can significantly affect the quality of the job and degrade the appearance of the home. Choosing the right color is essential, but choosing the right type of paint for the surface and the locality is of the utmost importance to attain a long lasting finish on interior walls, and to obtain a desirable appearance.
Paint for interior walls comes in a wide variety of finishes from flat to enamel, and they vary according to the amount of light they reflect. The shine factor also makes a big difference in how easy the finish is to clean, and how well it stands up to the test of time and durability. Consider the following types of finishes before shopping for interior paint. Choosing the right high-quality paint for walls, trim, woodwork, and doors will make a huge difference in the overall look of the room.
Enamel
Interior surfaces that take a great deal of abuse are best protected with an enamel finish. Enamel is hard and highly durable, and it is available in latex as well as oil-based interior paints. Consider enamel for doors and other surfaces that take abuse on a regular basis. The shine will not detract from the look of the room, and more importantly you will find that it is exceptionally easy to wipe clean. It will not require repainting or touchups as often as less durable interior choices.
Gloss Varieties
For a smooth durable finish that repels fingerprints, dirt, and other stains, consider choosing interior gloss or high-gloss paint. It is less reflective than enamel, but keep in mind that it will make existing flaws more apparent. Be sure to repair nicks and dents in doors, trim, and woodwork before covering with ordinary gloss or high-gloss paint. It will take a beating, and it will provide a long-lasting washable finish, but it will not hide surface imperfections.
Semi-Gloss
Paint that is less reflective is ideal for interior walls as well as trim, woodwork, and doors in bathrooms, kitchens, and in rooms where little fingers are likely to leave behind prints. Walls and other surfaces finished with semi-gloss paint are easily cleaned, and the surface is durable, but just like regular gloss and high-gloss varieties, semi-gloss interior paint will not hide defects. Always fill in dents, scratches, and other blemishes before painting with semi-gloss latex or oil-based interior paint.
Satin
A satin sheen is one of the most versatile choices since it provides the durability of semi-gloss. The beautiful matte finish is appropriate for all applications including walls, doors, woodwork, and interior trim. This type of paint is not too shiny for interior walls, and it is washable and provides a long-lasting finish. A satin sheen is highly recommended when painting the walls in children's bedrooms and other areas where kids typically play. It is also ideal for kitchen walls since grease and food spatters can be an issue, and it effectively repels moisture and humidity in bathrooms. Choose satin paint for an all-around durable and attractive finish for interior walls, woodwork, trim, and doors.
Eggshell
A genuine eggshell has a very slight natural sheen, hence the name eggshell when referring to paint with a delicate luster. It is washable and durable, and it effectively hides slight imperfections in walls, doors, trim, and interior woodwork. Choose paint with an eggshell finish for kitchens, utility rooms, bathrooms, entryways, and children's bedrooms and play areas. It is an excellent selection for those who do not want a lot of shine but prefer the ease in cleaning provided by paint with a smooth surface.
Flat
Interior wall coating without any type of sheen is considered flat. It looks lovely on walls, but it is not ideal in homes with children or in high-traffic areas. Fingerprints are almost impossible to remove, and when rubbing and scrubbing, the paint is more likely to come off than the prints. However, flat paint is ideal for ceilings and areas that do not take a lot of abuse, as well as areas with slight imperfections. It hides existing scratches and slight dents, but it will not hold up well to repeated washing and scrubbing.
Quality Counts
The old saying, less is more does not apply when considering paint. Whatever type of paint you choose for interior applications, keep in mind that quality is of vital importance. Paint that might cost a little less in price will cost more in the long run if it requires subsequent coats, and it will detract from the overall look of the room if it is inferior in quality. Choose high-quality paint for interior walls, doors, trim, and woodwork, and it will not be necessary to paint as often. It will go on evenly, and it will provide a durable covering for walls and other painted surfaces for years to come.
About The Author:
Jessica Ackerman is a contributing writer for www.walldecorandhomeaccents.com where you can find a great selection of wall décor products such as metal wall art , wall candle holders and wrought iron wall décor.
Posted on www.painterforum.com
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