If you are starting to spruce up your interior now that the weather is wetter and the days are shorter, you may be considering the pros and cons of the range of paints available to you. You don’t have to be an interior designer to know your eggshell from your emulsion; we’ll take you through the basics.
Emulsion
One of the most popular types of paint, emulsion is a water-based, which makes it easy to apply and clean up after use. Emulsion comes in a range of finishes: matt is great for ceilings and low traffic areas, satin or soft sheen is more durable and has a slight shine, and silk has a higher shine and works well in humid areas such as bathrooms and kitchens.
Gloss
Gloss provides a high-shine, durable finish that is ideal for areas subjected to wear and tear, such as doors, window frames, and skirting boards. The glossy finish looks polished and is easier to wipe clean than emulsion, making it suitable for high-traffic areas and sticky fingers. Gloss paint is also resistant to stains and moisture, which is why it's frequently used on surfaces that may need to withstand frequent cleaning or exposure to the elements. Gloss used to be mainly oil-based, but today water-based alternatives offer easier application and quicker drying times.
Satinwood
Satinwood paint that offers a semi-shiny finish somewhere between gloss and matt. It is often used for woodwork, such as skirting boards, door frames, and furniture, and provides a soft, velvety look. Satinwood paints are usually water-based and provide a hard-wearing, washable surface, making them suitable for rooms that experience moderate wear, like living rooms and hallways. They are also easier to maintain than gloss paints, as they are less prone to showing fingerprints and dust.
Chalk paint
Chalk paint, the upcycler’s friend, has gained popularity in the UK, as it is easy to use and fantastic for getting a vintage finish or transforming worn out furniture and cupboards. The highly versatile paint that can be used on a variety of surfaces, including wood, metal, and even fabric. Chalk paint requires minimal preparation and can be applied directly onto surfaces without the need for priming or sanding. It dries to a soft, chalky finish and can be distressed for an aged appearance. If want to breathe new life into your kitchen cupboards and can’t afford to get them professionally done, chalk paint could be the answer.
Getting a professional paint finish requires more than just knowing what different paints are used for what purposes. An interior designer or painter and decorator will be able to advise you on what paints, finishes and colours work in different spaces. Using all of the tools and the skills of the trade, they will also make sure that the job is done to a high standard. Before you spend money on painting equipment, get a quote from your local trusted painter and decorator.