Understanding Different Paint Types and Their Uses

Water-based or acrylic paints are common on interior walls and ceilings.

Composition, application, and finish vary from one paint type to another. Each variation matches better with different projects, so make wise selections.

Here is a look at different paint types and how to use them:

Water-based paints

Water-based or acrylic paints are common on interior walls and ceilings. They dry quickly, are almost odor-free, and it's easy to clean them up with water. Water-based paints don't yellow over time, at least not considerably. As such, they work great for rooms that get a lot of sunshine or even for the outdoors. Acrylic latex paints are a more durable variety of these paints.

Oil-based paints

Highly durable, oil-based paints are excellent for surfaces in constant use. They're also ideal for priming real wood because they seal its porous surface and prevent moisture and air from building up.

However, they take longer to dry and can have an unpleasant, strong smell. Also, oil-based paints need mineral spirits to clean up.

Specialty paints

Beyond typical water- or oil-based paints, there are specialty paints. For example, enamel paint has a hard, glossy finish, making cabinets and trim look spectacular. On the other hand, chalk paint has a matte finish and can give furniture a distressed look.

Magnetic paint contains tiny iron particles. Thanks to this magnetic property, it can hold various elements like wall decoration or shelves and create an interactive wall, for example, in children's rooms or home offices.

Chalkboard paint does exactly what the name implies: it creates a slate-like surface where it's possible to write with chalk. But rather than being a separate board, the paint integrates this directly into the wall.

Paint finishes

Each of these paints has a different finish, such as matte (or flat), high-gloss, or something in between for different sheen levels. Sheen isn't just for show. High-gloss finishes are sturdy and easy to clean, which makes them great for bathrooms and kitchens. "Middle-of-the-road" eggshell and satin finishes have a slight sheen. They're good for living rooms or anywhere with moderate traffic. Lastly, matte finishes hide imperfections on walls but aren't as durable as glossier options.

Primers

Primers matter as much as the paint itself. They prepare the surface so that the paint adequately adheres to it. The paint and the primer need to match. For example, oil-based paints need oil-based primers, while latex primers go under latex paints. Some paints have built-in primers to make using them more convenient, although this isn't the norm.

Choose the right paint

The right paint type is largely a matter of taste, but there are also some practical reasons to choose one paint type over another, depending on its purpose. If homeowners are unsure about the best paint for a project, contact a professional painting service for expert advice.

Encore Painting’s team of painting specialists provides residential painting of interiors, exteriors, cabinets, ceilings, and more in McKinney, Texas. We offer drywall services, including installation, water damage repair, texturing, and patching. We provide wallpaper removal, room painting, interior and exterior door and trim painting, and staining. Call us today at (972) 388-3543.