Interior Paint Choices

There are so many paint choices and primers now-a-days, it's almost overwhelming indeed - Latex Paint, Alkyd Paint, etc.

There are specially formulated paints that are made to coat and protect almost any surface. You'll have to look at the nature of the surface that you plan to paint, what it has been coated with before, and the kind of wear it will get - all are important factors.

Don't economize on paint quality. Buying a manufacturer's premium line is worth the investment. Application will be easier and the paint job will last longer. It's a good idea to check labels for compatibility of the primer and paint when looking at your paint choices.

Latex-base paint

Latex is a water based paint. Thins and cleans up with water.
It is easy to apply, quick drying, nontoxic when inhaled, and requiring only soap and water for cleanup. Latex paints come in high gloss, semigloss, eggshell (satin or low luster), and flat finishes.

There are also formulas to meet special needs, such as latex floor enamels, textured paints for less-than-perfect walls and ceilings, and epoxies for waterproofing cellar walls.

Because they are water-thinned, latex paints cause rust on unprimed metal; coat it first with a rust-inhibiting metal primer. Latex primers don't seal out moisture as well as oil-base ones.

TIP: Freezing actually ruins stored latex paint; it will separate and give off a foul odor.

Solvent-thinned paint (Alkyd)

Now made with synthetic resins called alkyds instead of linseed and other oils, these paints, particularly in a glossy finish, give a smoother, richer, more scrubbable coating than latex.

Alkyd paints dry more quickly than oil paints and have less odor, but they do pose environmental problems. Alkyd paints, their solvents, and solvent-soaked rags are toxic and combustible.

You should always have the room that you are painting well ventilated or wear a respirator.

Choosing the Right Type

On interior surfaces, it is okay to apply latex over alkyd or vice-versa for your paint choices, providing that the previous finish is flat or has been sanded. If you are unsure, it is better to cover the old paint with a primer of the same composition (alkyd or latex) as the paint as you are planning on using.

If painting a kitchen or bathroom, choose paint specially designed for these areas. These paints are more mold-, mildew-, and humidity-resistant. Although it may seem like an added expense, the cost is worth it.

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Here are some tips/guidelines that I give to my customers when choosing the sheen:

Kitchens and Bathrooms
Your kitchen and bathrooms require a very washable, durable paint. Use "Semigloss" as this sheen is very washable and perfect for areas that are more susceptible to dirt, grease and moisture.

Bedrooms
For kids' bedrooms, where you will need something washable, again go with a "Semigloss" sheen.
For other bedrooms, a "Satin" sheen will minimize dirt pick-up and is still washable. It is ideal in rooms that have an average amount of use and where a deep, rich look with some sheen and washability are desired.

Dining / Living Rooms
You can have a couple of choices here. A "Satin" sheen will minimize dirt pick-up and is washable. An "Eggshell" sheen is ideal for projects where a deep, rich look is desired yet only a minimal sheen is needed.

Also, look at how your natural lighting hits the longer walls. These are the areas that will show a lot of imperfections with higher sheen paints. When the opportunity is there, try to go with a minimal sheen in those rooms.

Hallways
The hallways and stairwells get a lot of traffic and prone to dirt and smudges, etc. At least a "Satin" sheen is needed for these areas.

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