Selecting the right paint is essential to achieving the look and durability you want.
Not all paint is created equal. Quality paints provide great benefits. They adhere
to the surface better and stains are more easily removed. Better paints last
longer are more economical in the long run...
Oil vs. Latex
Interior latex paints provide better long-term flexibility and resistance to cracking
and chipping. They also tend to resist yellowing with age in areas protected from sunlight. They emit less odor, clean up with water and are not flammable.
Oil-based paints offer superior one-coat hiding and better adhesion to difficult surfaces
such as those not thoroughly cleaned. Oil-based paints allow for greater length of time
the paint may be brushed before it sets; and superior resistance to "blocking" or face-
to-face sticking and abrasion, once cured.
Acrylic vs. Vinyl
If you choose latex paint, there are acrylic and vinyl acrylic formulations.
A 100% acrylic formula offers several advantages including better adhesion
in wet conditions, and better resistance to peeling, blistering, dirt and mildew
growth resistance to staining from water and foods like mustard, ketchup and
coffee is another plus along with resistance to alkalinity in household cleansers.
Finishes
The level of sheen or gloss you select depends as much on appearance as
functionality. Each finish has unique characteristics that will highlight or hide
the character and construction of the room.
Flat paint is an excellent choice for a uniform appearance across a large area.
It tends to hide dents and dings, but it can trap dirt, stain and create a mildew-
friendly environment more so than a satin or semi-gloss formula. It will also
tend to burnish more than other higher sheen finishes.
Satin finishes offer a crisp long-lasting look and are growing in popularity for
large wall areas. This finish resists dirt, stains, and burnishing better than flat
paint and is suitable for high traffic wall areas.
Semigloss sets off doors, trim and other architectural details that deserve
attention, increasingly homeowners and building managers are opting to use
the finish on larger surfaces. Semigloss also tends to resist dirt and mildew.
It is a good choice for areas where a shiny appearance is desired like bathrooms
and kitchen areas, but it will accentuate imperfections in the surface.
Gloss accentuates trim, windows, doors with even more shine that semigloss.
Once only available as an oil-based paint, this finish is now made in latex formulas.
Ceiling Paints are formulated to diffuse light from lamps and windows and have
excellent spatter resistance, but since they have low hiding and scrub resistance
they are not recommended for walls. A standard flat-finish paint is also
appropriate for ceilings.