Latex or Oil?
Interior house paints are either latex- or oil/alkyd-based. Today, most oil-based paints are made with synthetic resins (alkyds), which perform better than paints based on natural oils. Each has different characteristics and uses.
Latex - Get the longest-lasting finish with the best gloss retention. Latex paints are easy to work with, dry quickly and are extremely durable. Latex paints clean up easily with soap and water.
Oil / Alkyd - Good adhesion, excellent durability and stain resistance make oil/alkyd-based paints excellent choices for trim in high-traffic rooms, such as kitchens and bathrooms. Clean paint tools with mineral spirits.
From flat to gloss, both latex and oil/alkyd paints offer a full range of finishes. The sheen you choose is based on the final look and wearability you want to achieve.
Flat - Its matte appearance softens a room and helps hide surface blemishes, making walls look smooth. This finish, which cleans easily with a damp sponge, is ideal for:
* Adult bedrooms
* Dining rooms
* Formal living rooms
* Ceilings
Satin - With its slight gloss, this finish offers the benefits of a flat finish with added cleanability. It works best for high-traffic areas such as:
* Halls
* Woodwork
* Children's bedrooms
* Family rooms
Semi-Gloss - This lustrous, durable finish is perfect for areas that get cleaned frequently, such as:
* Kitchens
* Bathrooms
* Utility area
* Closet doors
* Trim
Gloss - This extremely hard and shiny finish provides a rich, smooth luster and is excellent for:
* Wood trim
* Cabinets
* Doors
* Furniture
Medium Skip Trowel
How To Paint A Room
Types of Paint
The type of paint you'll use depends on how the room to be painted will be used and the type of finish you want. Interior paint is specifically formulated to provide:
* Scrubbability and stain resistance
* Good hiding ability
* Good coverage
* Spatter resistance
* Easy touch-up