Paint Types & Finishes: The Perfect Paint for Any Room

When it comes to home improvement, choosing the right interior paint is crucial to achieving the perfect finish. Whether you're refreshing a room, repainting the hallway, or tackling a DIY project, the paint you choose can make all the difference.

This guide will help you navigate the various types of paint, finishes, and considerations to ensure you select the best option for your needs. Our goal is to provide you with the knowledge and tools needed to make informed decisions, ensuring your home looks its best.

Understanding Different Types of Paint

1. Water-Based (Latex) Paints

Water-based paints, often referred to as latex paints, are the most popular choice for interior walls and ceilings. They are easy to work with, quick-drying, and have low VOC (Volatile Organic Compounds) emissions, making them an environmentally friendly option.

Best for: Interior walls, ceilings, and surfaces that require regular cleaning, like kitchens and bathrooms.

Pros:

  • Quick drying
  • Easy to clean up with water
  • Low odour and VOC emissions
  • Resistant to yellowing over time

Cons:

  • Not as durable as oil-based paints on high-traffic surfaces

2. Oil-Based Paints

Oil-based paints offer a durable and glossy finish, making them ideal for high-traffic areas and surfaces that endure a lot of wear and tear. However, they take longer to dry and emit more VOCs than water-based paints.

Best for: Trims, doors, cabinets, and high-traffic areas.

Pros:

  • Durable and long-lasting
  • Smooth, glossy finish
  • Superior adhesion to various surfaces

Cons:

  • Longer drying time
  • Requires mineral spirits for cleanup
  • Higher VOC emissions

3. Acrylic Paints

Acrylic paints are a type of water-based paint that contains acrylic resin, offering greater durability and flexibility. They are suitable for both interior and exterior surfaces.

Best for: Exterior walls, fences, and areas exposed to the elements.

Pros:

  • Excellent durability and weather resistance
  • Flexible, preventing cracking and peeling
  • Quick drying

Cons:

  • Can be more expensive than standard water-based paints

4. Enamel Paints

Enamel paints provide a hard, glossy finish and are known for their durability. They are available in both oil-based and water-based formulations.

Best for: Trims, doors, and surfaces requiring a hard-wearing finish.

Pros:

  • Tough, durable finish
  • Resistant to moisture and heat
  • High gloss finish

Cons:

  • Longer drying time for oil-based versions
  • Requires careful surface preparation

5. Specialty Paints

Specialty paints include options like chalk paint, which provides a matte, vintage finish, and anti-mould paints designed for damp areas like bathrooms. These paints serve specific purposes and are chosen based on the particular needs of a space.

Best for: Unique finishes or specific environmental challenges (e.g., high humidity, mould-prone areas).

Pros:

  • Tailored to specific needs
  • Can create unique finishes

Cons:

  • Typically more expensive
  • Limited colour choices

Exploring Paint Finishes

The finish of your paint not only affects the appearance of your walls but also their durability and how easy they are to clean. Here’s a guide to the most common paint finishes:

1. Flat or Matte Finish

A flat or matte finish provides a smooth, non-reflective surface that helps hide imperfections on walls. It’s ideal for low-traffic areas or ceilings.

Best for: Ceilings, adult bedrooms, and low-traffic areas.

Pros:

  • Excellent at hiding wall imperfections
  • Creates a soft, elegant look

Cons:

  • Not as durable or washable as other finishes
  • Shows marks and stains easily

2. Eggshell Finish

Eggshell has a slight sheen and is more durable than a flat finish. It’s a good choice for living rooms and dining rooms where you want a subtle, elegant look without the high maintenance.

Best for: Living rooms, dining rooms, and hallways.

Pros:

  • More durable than flat finishes
  • Subtle sheen adds depth to the colour

Cons:

  • Not as easy to clean as glossier finishes

3. Satin Finish

Satin is a versatile finish that works well in high-traffic areas. It has a soft sheen and is easier to clean, making it a popular choice for family homes.

Best for: Kitchens, bathrooms, children’s rooms, and high-traffic areas.

Pros:

  • Durable and washable
  • Slight sheen adds a polished look

Cons:

  • Shows imperfections more than matte finishes

4. Semi-Gloss Finish

Semi-gloss paints offer a noticeable sheen and are extremely durable and easy to clean. They are ideal for areas that require regular scrubbing, like kitchens and bathrooms.

Best for: Trims, doors, kitchens, and bathrooms.

Pros:

  • Very durable and easy to clean
  • Resists moisture and stains

Cons:

  • Highlights wall imperfections

5. High-Gloss Finish

High-gloss is the most durable and reflective finish, making it perfect for surfaces that need a strong, washable surface. However, it shows every imperfection, so surface preparation is key.

Best for: Trims, doors, and cabinets.

Pros:

  • Extremely durable and easy to clean
  • Provides a luxurious, shiny finish

Cons:

  • Highlights all surface imperfections

Choosing the Right Paint for Different Surfaces

Selecting the correct type of paint also depends on the surface you’re painting. Here’s a quick guide:

1. Walls and Ceilings

  • Interior Walls: Opt for water-based paints with a finish that matches the room’s use, such as eggshell for living rooms or satin for high-traffic areas.
  • Ceilings: Flat or matte finishes are best to hide imperfections and create a seamless look.

2. Trims and Doors

  • Trims and Doors: Oil-based or water-based enamel paints with a semi-gloss or high-gloss finish offer the durability needed for these high-touch areas.

3. Exteriors

  • Exterior Walls: Acrylic paints are ideal for their durability and weather resistance.
  • Outdoor Furniture and Fences: Consider specialty paints designed for outdoor use, such as weatherproofing or UV-resistant paints.

4. Bathrooms and Kitchens

  • Bathrooms: Use a satin or semi-gloss finish in a water-based paint that resists moisture and mould.
  • Kitchens: Satin or semi-gloss finishes are recommended for their easy-to-clean properties.

Choosing the Right Paint for Different Rooms

Each room in your home has unique requirements based on its function, level of traffic, and exposure to moisture or sunlight. Selecting the right paint for each space is essential for both aesthetics and durability. Here’s a room-by-room guide to help you choose the best paint type and finish.

Living Room

The living room is often the centrepiece of the home, where you entertain guests and spend much of your time. The paint you choose should create a welcoming atmosphere while being durable enough to withstand everyday wear and tear.

Recommended Paint Type: Water-based paints (latex) are ideal for living rooms due to their easy application and quick drying time.

Recommended Finish:

  • Eggshell: Offers a soft, subtle sheen that adds depth without being too shiny.
  • Matte: Provides a smooth, elegant look that helps hide wall imperfections, though it’s less durable than eggshell

Considerations: If your living room is a high-traffic area, consider a satin finish for added durability and easier cleaning.

Bedrooms

Bedrooms are personal sanctuaries where comfort is key. The paint in these rooms should reflect a calm, relaxing environment. Depending on the bedroom, you may also want to consider how easy it is to clean, especially in children's rooms.

Recommended Paint Type: Water-based paints are a common choice for bedrooms due to their low odour and low VOCs, making them safer and more comfortable to sleep in soon after painting.

Recommended Finish:

  • Matte or Flat: Ideal for adult bedrooms, these finishes create a serene and cozy atmosphere and help conceal any wall imperfections.
  • Eggshell or Satin: For children’s rooms, these finishes offer a balance between aesthetic appeal and durability, allowing for easier cleaning of smudges or marks.

Considerations: In guest bedrooms, where traffic is minimal, a matte finish can create a luxurious feel without needing the durability of glossier finishes.

Kitchen

The kitchen is a high-traffic area with exposure to heat, moisture, and the occasional splatter. The paint you choose should be durable, easy to clean, and resistant to stains and moisture.

Recommended Paint Type: Water-based latex or acrylic paints with moisture-resistant properties.

Recommended Finish:

  • Satin: Provides a smooth, durable surface that can withstand frequent cleaning.
  • Semi-Gloss: Offers higher durability and easier cleaning, making it a great option for areas near stoves and sinks.

Considerations: Light colours can make a kitchen feel larger, but darker shades with a semi-gloss finish can hide stains better and add a contemporary look.

Bathroom

Bathrooms face constant exposure to moisture, so it’s important to choose a paint that can resist mildew and provide a durable, easy-to-clean surface.

Recommended Paint Type: Water-based paints with mould and mildew-resistant properties are best for bathrooms.

Recommended Finish:

  • Satin: Offers a good balance of moisture resistance and subtle sheen, making it suitable for most bathrooms.
  • Semi-Gloss: Highly durable and moisture-resistant, ideal for areas with high humidity like showers or around bathtubs.

Considerations: Opt for lighter shades to create an airy, spacious feel in small bathrooms. For larger bathrooms, consider bolder colours in a satin finish for added style without sacrificing durability.

Hallways and Corridors

Hallways and corridors are high-traffic areas prone to scuffs and marks. The paint in these spaces should be durable and easy to clean.

Recommended Paint Type: Durable water-based paints like latex are ideal for these areas.

Recommended Finish:

  • Satin: Provides a smooth, washable surface that can handle frequent contact.
  • Eggshell: Offers slightly less durability but can be a good choice if you prefer a less shiny finish.

Considerations: Choose neutral colours for a classic look that complements the adjacent rooms. If your hallway is narrow, lighter colours can help make it feel more open.

Dining Room

Dining rooms are both functional and decorative spaces, so your paint choice should reflect a balance of style and practicality.

Recommended Paint Type: Water-based paints are ideal for dining rooms, especially if you prefer a matte or eggshell finish.

Recommended Finish:

  • Eggshell: Adds a subtle sheen that enhances the room’s ambiance while still being relatively easy to clean.
  • Satin: Provides a slightly higher sheen and is easier to clean, making it suitable for dining rooms where spills or stains are more likely.

Considerations: Rich, warm colours can create an inviting atmosphere, while cooler tones can make the space feel more formal. Consider using an accent wall to add visual interest without overwhelming the room.

Home Office

Your home office should be a space that promotes productivity while being comfortable. The right paint can help you create an environment that suits your work style.

Recommended Paint Type: Water-based paints with low VOCs are ideal for home offices, as they minimise odour and ensure a healthier work environment.

Recommended Finish:

  • Matte: Helps reduce glare from computer screens and other electronic devices.
  • Eggshell or Satin: Offers a bit more durability and is easier to clean, which can be useful if your office is a high-traffic area or doubles as a guest room.

Considerations: Choose colours that help you stay focused and energised. Soft blues and greens are known for their calming effects, while bolder colours like red or orange can add energy to the space.

FAQs: Everything Else You Need to Know

How do I choose the right paint colour for my room?

When selecting a paint colour, consider the room’s purpose, the amount of natural light it receives, and your personal style. Use paint samples to test how different colours look at various times of day. Neutrals like beige, grey, and white are versatile, while bold colours can add personality and energy to a space. For more tips, see our guide on how to choose the right interior colour.

What is the difference between primer and paint?

Primer is a preparatory coating applied before painting to ensure better adhesion of the paint, increase durability, and provide an even surface. Paint provides colour and texture and protects the surface. Primers are especially important when painting over bare surfaces or transitioning from a dark to a light colour.

How should I prepare my walls before painting?

Proper wall preparation includes cleaning, sanding, and priming the surface to ensure the paint adheres well. For a detailed guide, check our tips on how to prepare walls for painting.

What is the best paint for a high-moisture area like a laundry room?

For high-moisture areas like laundry rooms, use a water-based paint with a satin or semi-gloss finish. These finishes are durable, moisture-resistant, and easy to clean, which is essential in humid environments.

How can I make my small room look larger with paint?

To make a small room appear larger, use light, cool colours such as pale blues, soft greens, or light greys. These colours reflect more light, creating a sense of openness. Additionally, painting trim and ceilings in lighter shades can enhance the illusion of space.

Is it necessary to use different paints for walls and ceilings?

Yes, it’s often recommended to use different paints for walls and ceilings. Ceiling paints are typically flat or matte to hide imperfections and reduce glare, while wall paints can have a variety of finishes depending on the room’s use. Some ceiling paints also have a thicker consistency to minimise drips.

How do I prevent paint from peeling or blistering?

To prevent peeling or blistering, ensure the surface is clean, dry, and properly primed before painting. Avoid painting in high humidity or extreme temperatures, as this can affect paint adhesion. Applying too many coats too quickly can also lead to peeling.

Can I mix different paint finishes in the same room?

Yes, you can mix different paint finishes in the same room to create contrast and highlight certain features. For example, use a matte or eggshell finish on the walls and a semi-gloss or high-gloss finish on trim, doors, or accent features. This adds depth and visual interest to your space.

What is the most durable paint finish?

High-gloss finishes are the most durable and easy to clean, making them ideal for high-traffic areas, trims, and doors.

Can I use water-based paint over oil-based paint?

Yes, but proper preparation is key. The oil-based paint should be sanded and primed before applying water-based paint to ensure proper adhesion.

How do I calculate the amount of paint I need?

To determine how much paint you need, calculate the total surface area and consider the paint's coverage rate per litre. For more detailed steps, see our guide on how to calculate the amount of paint you need.


Choosing the right paint involves understanding the different types of paint and finishes, selecting the right product for your specific surface and room, and knowing how to identify existing paint on your walls.

By making informed choices, you can achieve a professional-quality finish that enhances the beauty and longevity of your home. Whether you're a seasoned DIYer or just starting, our wide range of paint options and expert advice will help you get the job done right.

For more information and expert tips, visit our DIY Paint Guides and other helpful resources.

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