Picking the Best Interior Paint for Your Project

Whether you just want a change in scenery, prepping a home for resale or replacing peeling or toxic paint, selecting the right interior paint is an important job! Before making any hasty decisions about color, you must also decide on the paint’s composition and sheen.

There are two main types of paints: oil-based paint and water-thinned paint, also known as latex paint. The difference between these two types of paints is the solvent used. Deciding between oil and water-based paints is based on the surfaces you plan on painting. Water-based paints are safer and are more commonly used for walls. If you’re simply repainting the walls in your home, water-thinned paints are the way to go. But, if you’re planning to refurbish or repaint wood surfaces or trim, oil-based paint may provide the best results.

After determining the paint composition you will use, the next choice is what type of sheen you want. A paint’s sheen is the patient’s level of glossiness and reflectiveness. Paint is available in the following sheens: flat, matte, eggshell, satin, semi-gloss, and glossy.

Flat and matte paints are the least reflective with the highest level of pigment. This means they are great for hiding imperfections but, on the other hand, they can damage easily and are difficult to clean. Flat and matte paints are idea for home areas with minimal foot traffic, best for ceilings and hallways.

Eggshell sheen is a very common paint sheen used in moderately-trafficked areas in the home. It has a low level of shine and susceptible to scuffs. Eggshell is considered the best interior paint for dining rooms, living rooms, and other areas where the painted surface isn’t very susceptible to damage.

Satin paint gives a pearl-like appearance and is more durable than eggshell. Satin paint is also easier to wash with soap and water and used more often in kitchens and bathrooms.

Semi-gloss and glossy paint are highly-reflective, and also the most durable. They are great for areas that are prone to scuffs and scratches like handrails and children’s bedrooms. The downside to semi-gloss and glossy paint is that it will highlight any flaws so be sure to properly sand and smooth the surface before applying the paint.

In this section we have selected five of our favorite color shades of interior paint:

As you can see, there are countless options for interior paint which can be overwhelming but is actually great for the consumer. You’re able to choose the solvent, type of sheen, color and brand with so many ways to make your home’s interior, you! We hope this article has helped start the planning and research phase. When deciding on a paint color, think about the room you’re painting, the desired aesthetic and most importantly, make it a room where you want to spend time in and enjoy! If you would like to learn more about paint selection, feel free to contact us and we would be more than happy to help!