When painting a house, the appropriate paint finishes may enhance the room’s aesthetic appeal. Choosing the right interior paint finish can be a daunting task, but understanding the differences between each finish and how they will impact the look and feel of your room can make this task easier. In this blog, we will learn how to choose the right paint finish for your house.
Factors to Consider When Choosing the Right Paint Finish
01. Durability of Paint Finish
When choosing an interior paint finish, durability is essential. A more durable finish will last longer and require less maintenance. Consider how often the surface will be used and its exposure to moisture or other elements that may cause damage over time.
High-traffic areas such as kitchens and bathrooms should be given the most durable finish possible, while lower-traffic areas like bedrooms can use a softer finish with less wear resistance.
02. Paint Sheen Level
A paint sheen is determined by the amount of gloss or shine that a paint provides when applied to a surface. Different sheen offer different levels of protection against scratches, stains, and dirt but can also affect the overall look of the space.
A high-gloss finish will provide the most protection but can be difficult to touch up and may become too shiny for some spaces. Semi-gloss finishes are popular in kitchens and bathrooms because they balance aesthetics and durability well. In contrast, flat or matte finishes are often used in bedrooms and living rooms for a more subtle look.
03. Painting Colour
Colour is essential when selecting paint, as it will determine how the space looks once finished. Consider whether you want a neutral shade that can be easily changed over time or something bolder, like a deep red or navy blue, that will immediately impact the room. The type of lighting in the space should also be considered, as it can affect how the colour appears once applied.
04. Natural Light
Consider the flow of light into a room when selecting the right paint finish. If natural light is abundant in the area, then glossy finishes may help reflect it for a brighter space. On the other hand, if the room gets very little natural light, semi-gloss or eggshells will be more forgiving on the walls.
05. Consider Furniture and Decor Colours to Choose Paint Finish
Darker colours will benefit from a higher sheen as it can help hide imperfections, while lighter colours may require a lower sheen avoid deepening the shade.
06. Budget is Essential to Select right Paint Finish
Budget is often a significant consideration when choosing a paint finish. High-quality paints cost more than basic types, but they provide better coverage, durability, and protection against fading. Consider how much you will spend on each room and choose a finish that fits your budget while offering the desired look and feel.
07. Surrounding Environment
Consider the room’s surroundings when selecting a paint finish. For instance, if the room is near a swimming pool or beach, you must go for gloss finishes, as they will hold up better against moisture and humidity.
08. Choose Easy to Apply Paint
High-gloss paints are easier to apply than low-sheen options because they don’t require multiple coats; however, low-sheen may be your best option if you are on a budget.
09. Sustainability
Many brands offer low-VOC paints, which are more environmentally friendly than traditional ones and can help reduce the number of chemicals released into the air during painting projects.
10. Odour from Paint Finish
Different paint finishes may have different scents, which can be a deciding factor when choosing the right interior paint finish. Latex paints produce less odour than oil-based ones, which can be helpful while working in a smaller space or with limited ventilation.
If the odour is an issue, look for low VOC (volatile organic compounds) and no VOC options that reduce the amount of potentially harmful fumes released into the air.
11. Paint Finish Required Maintenance
Different paint finishes may require different maintenance levels. For example, high-gloss paints are often easier to clean but may show dirt and fingerprints easily. Flat or matte paints may require frequent touch-ups, as they quickly absorb dirt and show wear.
12. Manufacturer’s Recommendation
Check what the manufacturer recommends for a particular area. Different finishes in different areas of your home can make all the difference. For instance, bathrooms and kitchens may require a more durable finish than living rooms or bedrooms, which could be more suited to an eggshell or matte finish.
Conclusion
Considering all these factors, you can make an informed decision when selecting the right paint finish for your home. Always read the manufacturer’s instructions. Consider factors such as foot traffic, light, wall coverings, etc. With research and planning, you can create the perfect look without sacrificing quality. So, whether you’re looking for something simple or bold, there will surely be a paint finish that meets both your needs and your budget.
And before you leave, must read the following article too:
How to Choose a Wood Finish for Your Home? A Complete Guide
Author Bio
Jennifer Kiminza – Jennifer Kiminza is a content writer and content marketing professional at Hub Spot, an inbound marketing and sales platform that helps companies attract visitors, convert leads, and close customers. Previously, Jennifer worked as a marketing manager for a tech software startup. She graduated with honors from Nairobi University with a dual degree in Business Administration and Creative Writing.