How To Choose The Right Interior Paint
If you’ve ever been confused at the paint counter, you’re not the only one. Most paint retailers sell an insane array of coatings, and that can make it difficult for anyone to pick the right paint. Even so, there is a way to streamline your paint selection: Just answer the following six questions. They’ll help guide you through the maze and make clear which interior paint is best for you.
How Sensitive Are You To “Paint Smell”?
If you dislike the smell of paint, you should focus on water-based latex paints, which have little or no odor compared to oil-based coatings. Latex paints also make cleanup easy and they perform well on interior surfaces. These advantages help explain why latex paints are overwhelmingly favored by do-it-yourselfers and professional painters alike.
What Atmosphere Do You Want To Create In The Room?
If your hope is to make the space cozy, then consider using a “warm” hue, like yellow, orange or red; if you want the room to have a cool feel, then choose a blue or green paint.
Will There Be Much Activity In The Space You Are Painting?
Walls and woodwork can easily become soiled if there is a lot of activity in a room. In that case, it’s best to use a high gloss or semi-gloss paint, which will resist stains and be much easier to clean. However, if your room will see little activity, you should feel free to use any level of sheen – from flat paint to a high gloss finish.
Do You Wish The Room Were Bigger (Or Smaller)?
If you think the space seems cramped (or, cavernous), you can alter the perception by selecting the right color of paint. Light paint colors make a room seem larger; darker colors make it feel more intimate.
How Often Do You Typically Repaint?
If you paint only infrequently, you’ll want to be sure to apply a very durable paint that will continue to look good over time. In that respect, the best option is to use a top quality 100% acrylic latex interior paint.
How Much Time Do You Want To Spend On This Project?
If you have limited time, or simply want to complete the painting quickly, then consider using a “paint and primer” product that works like two coatings in one. You’ll very likely need to apply fewer coats, which will greatly speed up the job.
Considering these questions takes just a few moments, but the answers will save you a lot of trouble when you’re at your paint retailer’s. More importantly, you’ll leave the store with just the right paint for your next project! If you’re considering having professionals handle your next interior painting project, give ASJ a call. ASJ has a full team of licensed and insured professional painters that can ensure you’re next interior painting project is one you will love for years to come.