Paint Finishes and Types
Paints come in a number of different types and finishes, each designed for specific applications.
Finishes
Gloss
- highest sheen
- very durable
- easy to clean
- excellent for trim or cabinets
Semi-gloss
- very durable
- easy to clean
- excellent for kitchens and bathrooms
- most popular choice for trim and doors
Satin
- medium sheen
- similar to eggshell but slightly more washable
- a good choice for kitchens and bathrooms
Eggshell
- hides minor imperfections on walls
- the best choice for most walls
- washable
Matte or Flat
- lowest sheen
- generally used for ceilings
- not very washable
Types of Paints
Primers/Sealers
- used to seal unpainted surfaces to prevent covering coatsof paint from soaking in
- also used to block out stains
- taking the time to properly prime some surfaces makes a big difference in the final quality of the paint job
Latex
Latex paint is water-based, so brushes and rollers can be rinsed with water, and the colour holds up well to exposure to bright sunlight. It dries in about six hours, but often requires two or three coats for complete coverage.
- the term "Latex" is used by paint companies to refer to water based paints. There is no natural latex in modern paint
- latex paints remain more flexible and allow moisture to evaporate through the film thus reducing blistering, cracking and peeling
- water clean up
- easy to touch up
- safer for you and the environment
Acrylic Latex
- “Acrylic"or "Acrylic Latex" paint are water based paints that contain Acrylic as the film forming binder ingredient
- Often, inexpensive latex paints use softer vinyl resins as binders and more water in the formulation while the more durable of the latex paints use 100% acrylic resins and less water (you get what you pay for!)
Oil
Oil paint is more glossy and viscous than latex, making it tough and durable, perfect for high-traffic areas like baseboards and trim. It has a strong odour and brushes will need to be cleaned with solvents. Keep in mind that oil paint can take up to a day to dry.- the term "Oil based" is used to refer to paints that have a linseed oil or Alkyd base. 'Alkyd" is a synthetic oil base
- hard, durable finish
- will yellow over time
- paint thinner is required for clean up
- more VOC’s so we use these as little as possible
Enamel
- Enamels are formulated with higher concentrations of resin as they are intended to be subjected to more wear and tear
Considerations when choosing a finish
Clean-ability and Durability
While we only use quality products some paints are more durable and easier to clean than others. A good rule is that the shinier the paint finish, the better it will stand up to washing and cleaning and the more durable it will be in the first place.
Kid-Friendly Finishes
When painting children's rooms, we recommend using an eggshell or satin paint on the walls and semi-gloss for trim and doors. These finishes will better withstand repeated cleanings.We also use many paints with low VOC’s (Volatile Organic Compounds) giving you the satisfaction of knowing that while we’re working your kids can breathe easy.
Ceilings
Ceilings are typically painted with flat finish paint. Choose a glossier finish, like eggshell or satin, for good light reflection, but only if the ceiling is flawless.
Special Areas
Any room, such as a kitchen or bathroom, which will be exposed to water or steam, is best painted with a satin or semi-gloss paint. A guest bath or powder room will have less-frequent use and could be painted with lower-gloss paint, such as an eggshell finish.