Complete guide to interior paints

If you're working on a home renovation project for a customer and it’s time to give a room a fresh look, choosing the right type of paint can make a big difference. 

With many finishes, picking the best paint types can be confusing. Let’s look at the different types of wall paint, their applications and their benefits so you can decide which one is right for the project.

What are the different types of paint finishes?

There are loads of types of wall paint and finishes. The ‘finish’ of paint describes the look and how shiny it is when dry. The most popular types of interior wall paint are matt, textured, satin, eggshell, semi-gloss, high-gloss and specialty paints.
 

Specialty paints

Specialty paint types are used to create a unique look. They are usually put on just one wall or part of a room. 

Some examples include:

• chalkboard paint — creates a wall that can be written on with chalk
• super-matt paint — super light-absorbing paint that creates a heavy, flat look
• metallic paint — has metallic elements that create a shiny, reflective surface
• magnetic paint — contains iron particles that let magnets stick to it
• glow-in-the-dark paint — absorbs light and releases it slowly in the dark to make it glow
• heat-resistant paint — paint that doesn’t damage under high temperatures
• anti-mould and mildew paint — contains chemicals that stop mould and mildew from growing on the wall

How to choose the right type of wall paint

With so many types of interior wall paint, picking the best one for a project can be tricky. Choosing the right type of paint depends on a few things, including what finish you want or your client wants, how tough or long-lasting the paint needs to be and personal likes or dislikes.

To help pick the best wall paint, you should follow these steps.

1. Decide on a finish
   Ask your customer if they prefer a shinier or matt look. Take them through the different types of paint finishes available, explaining their differences.
2. Look at how the room is used
   Rooms have different needs. Kitchens, hallways or bathrooms might need tougher paint as they are used more. Bedrooms or living rooms look better with a softer appearance and matt paint. Think about how the room will be used and how often it will be cleaned.
3. Think about lighting
   Before choosing a paint type, you should look at the room’s lighting. Rooms with more natural light will look good with glossier paints, while darker rooms work best with matt or eggshell finishes to create a cosy look.
4. Assess the wall’s condition
   If the walls have marks or cracks, matt or eggshell paint finishes can help hide these. Smoother walls can use gloss paint, which covers imperfections less well.
5. Consider colour
   Think about the colour palette your customer wants and any colour trends — some paint types can make certain colours brighter or duller. For example, gloss paint makes colours bolder, while matt finishes can soften pastel shades. 
6. Use test sample
   Samples are a good way to test different types of paint, mainly if you’ve not used the brand, colour or finish before. This helps you see how the paint goes with the lighting, décor and wall.
7. Ask a professional
   It’s best to speak to an experienced professional if you’re unsure about paint finishes or need help choosing the best type of paint for your project. Decorators or paint experts can advise based on your needs and preferences.

Choosing the right type of interior wall paint can make a room look and feel better for longer. With many paint types to pick from, it pays to think ahead and have a good idea of the pros and cons of each paint type.