Picking paint that suits the project is a big step toward achieving an attractive, long-lasting paint job.
For example, the paint’s luster or sheen will help determine its ability to hide imperfections in the painted surface as well as its general stain resistance and ease of cleaning. Paints are normally sold in four lusters: flat, satin (also called eggshell and low luster), semigloss and gloss. Note that the lusters are not standardized, and one manufacturer’s satin or semigloss paint can be more or less glossy than that of another.
In general, flat paints are best for concealing surface imperfections, such as bumps or dents and patched cracks and nail holes. This makes flat paints a good choice for older interior walls and ceilings that have been frequently repainted or repaired, or when switching from wallpaper to paint, since removing wallpaper sometimes leaves some scraper marks.
Gloss and semigloss paints are generally more stain-resistant and easier to clean than flat paints, but their light-reflective quality makes surface imperfections show up more clearly. The shiny finish also can be somewhat overpowering if these paints are overused. However, glossy paints are sometimes used for walls in kitchens and bathrooms, and are a good choice for interior and exterior trim, window sills and frames, doors and cabinets.
Satin paints are a good compromise between flat and semigloss and are one of the most popular paints for both interior and exterior use. These paints are generally easier to clean than flat paints but give less emphasis to surface imperfections than glossy coatings. They are a good choice for almost any interior surface and are often used for exterior walls and trim.
Before buying any paint, read the label to see if it is intended for interior use only or can be used both indoors and outdoors.
Paint buyers should also look for paints best suited to specific jobs. These paints have unique properties that improve their performance for special situations. Here are some of the most useful types:
- Wall paint. This paint is designed for interior walls and ceilings.
- House and trim paint. This is the paint to pick for the exterior walls or trim of a house, garage or other building.
- Enamel. Generally more durable and expensive than ordinary paint, enamel is excellent for painting furniture, cabinets, doors, trim and similar surfaces.
- Bathroom paint. These paints, which are also often used in kitchens, have high resistance to mildew and are easy to clean. An example is Zinsser’s Perma-White.
- Porch and floor paint. This paint will stand up well to the abrasion and wear of regular foot traffic. It can generally be used on concrete and metal as well as wood, and is a good choice for steps, patios and similar surfaces.
- Waterproofing paint. This is designed for masonry walls, such as basement walls, that are subject to water infiltration.
- Rust-resistant paint. This special paint, typified by the Rust-Oleum line, is designed to keep metal from rusting.
