When you think about paint, what's the first thing that pops into your head?
Colours.
Do you want deep blue, a vibrant red, bold orange, pastel pink, or something a little more neutral?
However, there's something else you should be thinking about first.
Before colours, you need to pick out the right kind of paint. There are many different types of paint designed for different situations. Choosing the right type will ensure the most quality paint job.
Let's take a look at the different types to help you choose.
Water-Based
Most homes have water-based paint, or latex paint, on their walls. The paint is easy to apply, washable, and comes in every colour imaginable.
This environmentally friendly paint option has fewer VOCs and is durable. The paint can stand up to movement without cracking and is even tough enough to fight off mildew and moisture.
Oil-Based
Water-based paint is durable, but oil-based paint is even better. This is why many people choose to use it in high-moisture areas like bathrooms or on surfaces that see heavy wear like floors.
Oil-based paint has a few downsides, however, which is why many people try to avoid it where possible. It has a high number of VOCs, stinks as it dries, and requires special chemicals for cleanup after painting.
Types of Paint Finishes
There are also a few different types of paint finishes that each serves a slightly different purpose. Let's look at them.
Matte/Matte Enamel
Matte and matte enamel look similar. These finishes have very little sheen and are excellent for hiding surface imperfections. The paint is easy to apply but often requires more than one coat for even coverage.
The only trouble is that matte paint is prone to marks and is difficult to wash. Matte enamel takes care of this problem by being sturdier and easier to clean.
Gloss/Semi-Gloss
The opposite of matte is gloss. This shiny paint tends to accentuate imperfections so you'll have to prepare them perfectly first. Carefully smooth out spackle spots and consider priming them with a matte paint the same colour as the final finish first.
Glossy paint, however, is excellent for cleaning and highly resistant to moisture so people love it for kitchens and bathrooms. Semi-gloss is often used on larger surfaces like walls. People often reserve gloss paint for details that they want to highlight like trim or cabinet doors.
Eggshell/Satin
The eggshell and satin finishes fall in the middle of the spectrum between matte and gloss. Satin is smoother and will make imperfections stand out more. Eggshell is better at covering imperfections and often does the job with a single coat.
Both finishes are easier to clean than matte and are nice options when you don't want a super glossy finish.
Pick Your Perfection
Who knew there could be so many different types of paint? If you're undecided about which to choose for your project, be sure to ask the experts about house painting costs.
Here at Platinum Pro Painters, we have the expertise necessary to ensure that your project is perfect. Feel free to contact a professional painter in Milton
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