Choosing the right paint for your project
Other than color there are there are several different factors that will affect the type of paint you will need for your
project:
Type of Paint:
"Latex" and "oil base" are some terms used to categorize paint. Latex
may actually be non-latex or artificial-latex water based paint. Most of these products still carry "latex" on the label.
When you see a paint or stain product categorized as "acrylic" or "waterborne", it will probably have properties similar to
that of latex paint, even if it does not include the term latex on the can. Likewise, when you ask for an oil-based paint
you may get the similar alkyd.
Gloss:
Some examples of types of gloss are: High gloss, semi gloss, eggshell, satin,
low sheen and flat. The gloss factor will vary from one brand of paint to another or one type of paint to another. It is important
to choose the right gloss for your project. A shinny surface sends out a different effect than a non-shinny surface and so
the degree of gloss will most certainly influence the final outcome of entire project.
There are several factors to consider when selecting the gloss
Overall appearance: the lower gloss finishes give a softer, smoother look. Higher Gloss tends to amplify minor dents
dings drywall seams. But some degree of gloss on woodwork tends to add to the detail.
Ease of use:
for the inexperienced user lower gloss paints are recommended for most
walls & ceilings.
Serviceability:
the higher gloss finishes tend to resist marking & clean better;
however, flat paints tend to touch up the best.
In general use flat finish paints on the ceiling, flat or low gloss on walls, low gloss or semi gloss on trim & woodwork.
Avoid flat paint in mildew prone areas.
An example of paint to use for a living room:
Ceiling: Flat latex, Walls: Flat latex or eggshell latex, Woodwork: Semi gloss oil, Semi gloss latex or eggshell
oil
An example of paint to use for a kitchen:
Ceiling: Flat latex, Walls: Semi gloss latex or eggshell oil, Woodwork: Semi gloss oil
A bathroom can quite often be painted (ceilings, walls, trim) all with the same paint preferably semi gloss
latex.
Colors:
Several factors may influence your color choice. One is contrast. Painting
a room with colors that are low contrast with each other is easier than painting with high contrast colors. High contrast
requires higher
cut in skill. Another factor to consider is coverage. When repainting a room a color change may require
a second coat. Using the same colors or color close to the existing paint you might get by with just one coat.
