Paint Finishes and Types

Paints come in a number of different types and finishes, each designed for specific applications.

Finishes

Gloss 
Semi-gloss  
Satin
Eggshell
Matte or Flat

 

Types of Paints

Primers/Sealers
Latex

Latex paint is water-based, so brushes and rollers can be rinsed with water, and the colour holds up well to exposure to bright sunlight. It dries in about six hours, but often requires two or three coats for complete coverage.

 
Acrylic Latex
Oil
Oil paint is more glossy and viscous than latex, making it tough and durable, perfect for high-traffic areas like baseboards and trim. It has a strong odour and brushes will need to be cleaned with solvents. Keep in mind that oil paint can take up to a day to dry.
 
Enamel

 

Considerations when choosing a finish

Clean-ability and Durability

While we only use quality products some paints are more durable and easier to clean than others.  A good rule is that the shinier the paint finish, the better it will stand up to washing and cleaning and the more durable it will be in the first place.

Kid-Friendly Finishes

When painting children's rooms, we recommend using an eggshell or satin paint on the walls and semi-gloss for trim and doors. These finishes will better withstand repeated cleanings.We also use many paints with low VOC’s (Volatile Organic Compounds) giving you the satisfaction of knowing that while we’re working your kids can breathe easy.

Ceilings

Ceilings are typically painted with flat finish paint. Choose a glossier finish, like eggshell or satin, for good light reflection, but only if the ceiling is flawless.

Special Areas

Any room, such as a kitchen or bathroom, which will be exposed to water or steam, is best painted with a satin or semi-gloss paint. A guest bath or powder room will have less-frequent use and could be painted with lower-gloss paint, such as an eggshell finish.