How to Choose the Right Paint For Your Project

Choosing the right paint for your home can seem rather straightforward at first. You probably reckon that all you need to do is pick a color alongside some brushes and get to work, right? Well, not quite. A quick stop at a paint store will make you realize just how tricky of an affair it can be. It can be a major let-down when you go with your gut and choose paint only for it to not live up to your expectations. When the job is done and it looks nothing like what you hoped to achieve, you are unlikely to enjoy that space.

That said, here is what you need to consider to help you choose just the right paint.

The Area to Paint

The area you intend to paint will determine the kind of product you choose. Take into account factors such as:

• Exposed outdoor areas
• Indoor surfaces

Outdoor areas

Outdoor surfaces are exposed to weather changes, wind, dirt, and many other elements, unlike a typical indoor surface. In light of this, the kind of paint you use outside needs to be resilient enough or you will have to keep touching it up quite often.

Latex and acrylic paints are ideal for exterior surfaces. Latex paints are water-based and thus easy to clean. They tolerate weather changes well but they will not serve you too long. If you are hoping for something more durable, go for acrylic paint. It takes well to cement and wood boards.

Indoor areas

Indoor painting is more about aesthetics. However, how a room is used also plays a role in what type of paint you use in it. For instance, consider bathrooms and kitchens which are both high-moisture areas. Oil-based paint would be ideal for them as opposed to the water-based variety which can start to peel off due to dampness. In terms of safety, water-based paints are preferred as they have low levels of Volatile Organic Compounds. They also dry quicker and are easier to clean. If you are willing to do touch-ups from time to time, they are a good choice.

The odds are, you will probably be painting over another existing layer of paint. You might be worried that the underlying color will affect how the new coat will look. You can avoid that by first applying primer liquid before the first fresh coat. Applying a primer may also be recommended for areas prone to mold or smoke exposure.

Color

Color is a great anchor when it comes to decor and can also be used to set the mood of a room. Paint shops mostly offer color swatches of sample paints to give you an idea of how the color will look. Where possible, opt for the samples and test them on your space to get a more realistic idea before committing.

Light and Bright

Lighter shades such as lilac or sky blue usually make a space seem more cheerful and spacious. They have a calming effect and can be used in a wide range of settings. Additionally, given as they are not too bold, you can opt for more than one color in a room.

Dark and Rich

If you are looking to make a bold statement, try out rich darker colors such as navy or teal. That said, darker shades can make a room seem smaller thus it would be ideal to use them in larger spaces. Alternatively, you can use them on a feature wall as opposed to a whole room.

Paint Blends

Paint blends are a popular trend where colors are mixed to come up with unique shades. If you choose to go that route, it is advisable to get it done at the paint store. The process requires professional equipment such as a Ginhong mixer to ensure that the paint blends properly into an even shade.

Types of Paint Finishes

Paint finishes can be defined as the texture and look a paint will provide when it dries. Let us explore the 3 main types of finishes you can choose from.

Glossy Finish

If you prefer your walls to have some sheen, this is the kind of paint you want to go for. The gloss effect reflects light well and brings vibrancy into space. It is a good way to ensure that bold colors do not darken a room.

Most brands also have a semi-gloss option which is more toned down than the full gloss variety.

Satin Finish

It is also referred to as the eggshell finish. If you are looking for a middle-ground between dull and gloss finishes, this is your remedy. It is durable and will not become dull even with frequent cleaning. In regard to light, it does well in areas with natural light but is generally reflective even though it has less sheen.

Matte

Matte paint is a mixed bag of fortunes. While it is perfect for achieving texture and hiding imperfections, it reflects light quite poorly. It looks better as a finish for richer colors than lighter ones.

Safety

The controversy around the safety of paints keeps evolving so it really is a discretionary decision. However, make an effort to stay away from toxic and carcinogenic ingredients such as lead and turpentine. Consider consulting your dealer on which brands and types come with lower VOC content.

Aeration is important during the painting and a few days after before you start using the room. Be cautious while handling solvents as most of them are flammable.

Conclusion

A fresh layer of paint can transform a surface or room in many ways. You can brighten or tone down a room as well as enhance lighting all by the stroke of a brush. The final effect rests on your choice of paint, no pressure. Finally, the wrong application process can interfere with the finish and general look of a paint job. As you explore your options, be sure to learn and acquire the right tools or hire a professional painter.