Interior Paints And Enamels
When it comes to decorating, nothing can give your house a face list like painting your house's interior. However, before you can do that you should know the differences in interior paint finishes, and their uses. So, the following will help you understand your different interior paint and enamel options, and the typical uses of each type:
Interior paints are available in flat (no shine), satin, semigloss and gloss (high shine) finishes. So, let's take some time to look at each finish more closely.
Flat paints: When it comes to flat paints you have two options, you have an alkyd- base paint that thins with turpentine or mineral spirits, or a latex base paint that thins with water. Latex paints are usually vinyl or acrylic based or a combination of the two.
So what are the differences? Well, alkyd Flat paints offer the advantage of hiding blemishes, etc. better with one coat than will comparable latex flats, but they also offer the disadvantage of brushes and other tools having to be washed with turpentine or a similar solvent. Latex flats on the other hand spread easily, especially on porous surfaces, and seldom require a primer, and the application tools can simply be cleaned with water.
When do you use flat paint? Flat wall paints are usually applied to ceilings and walls, except in kitchens and baths. Flat finish paint has no shine, which minimizes imperfections, but is harder to clean than other paints. Flat paints are usually used in living room, dining room, and master bedroom.
Satin Paint: This paint type is often considered the ultimate paint type. Why? Well, for starters it is non-reflective, has a low sheen, with stain resistance, and washability. Thus, making it the perfect paint to use in areas of the home that get a lot of traffic such as hallways, family rooms, informal dining areas, and of course the bedrooms.
Semigloss or gloss paints are perfect for bathrooms and kitchens. These paint types are formulated for superior durability and stain resistance, and also are washable, and give a nice shine to the surface painted. The big plus however is simply that they can withstand the frequent washings required in bathrooms and kitchens.
But what about other areas of the house that need painting? Well, for windows, doors, wood trim and other woodwork, satin, semigloss or gloss enamels are recommended. These surfaces get more wear than the walls do, they usually end up with more fingerprints and soil. Thus you will want to use a satin or semigloss because glossier enamels wash more readily; thus they are more desirable.
However, there are some things you need to be aware of when using enamels and gloss paints. For example, because enamels and gloss paints dry rapidly you would need to be more careful in the application because they tend to leave brush marks, especially on hot, dry days.
However, no matter what type of paint finish you use, the preparation of interior surfaces is vital to good end results. Surfaces must be free from grease, dirt, mildew, chalking, etc., washed well, thoroughly rinsed with clear water and allowed to dry before repainting. Cracks and holes must be repaired and the area ought to be primed.
