Marcus Chen
There are several types of paint to choose from, and it's important to select the right one for your project. Paint is typically divided into two categories: oil-based paints and water-based paints. However, there are many other types of paint to consider, including enamel paint, bituminous paint, aluminium paint, anti-corrosive paint, metallic paint, milk paint, chalk paint, and more. Each type of paint has unique properties and is suited to different applications. For example, some paints are better for high-traffic areas, while others are designed for specific surfaces like metal or wood. Additionally, the finish or sheen of the paint, which refers to its level of shine, can range from flat or matte to high-gloss and will impact the final look and durability of the painted surface.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Purpose | To decorate, express style, and transform a space |
| Factors to consider | Location, use, size of room, and overall look |
| Sheen/finish | Flat/matte, satin/eggshell, semi-gloss, gloss, high gloss |
| Sheen characteristics | Flat/matte absorbs light, semi-gloss/gloss reflects light |
| Sheen advantages | Flat/matte hides imperfections, gloss is easy to clean |
| Paint types | Water-based (latex), acrylic, oil-based, chalk, aluminium, anti-corrosive, enamel |
| Paint type characteristics | Water-based is easy to apply, oil-based is durable, acrylic is durable and mildew-resistant, chalk paint hides imperfections, aluminium is strong and durable, anti-corrosive for metallic surfaces, enamel is glossy and water-resistant |
| Additional considerations | Primer, undercoat, quality of application tools, number of coats |
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What You'll Learn
Water-based paints
The two main types of water-based paints are acrylic and latex. Acrylic paints typically contain more acrylic polymers than latex paints, resulting in better adhesion, durability, and resiliency. They are often used for exterior surfaces due to their resistance to mildew, mould, UV rays, and water damage. Acrylic paints are ideal for surfaces such as siding, shutters, doors, and other exterior features.
Latex paints, on the other hand, are commonly used for interior projects. They are easy to apply, quick to clean, and safe for individuals with latex allergies. Latex paints are also environmentally friendly, as they have low volatile organic compound (VOC) levels.
When choosing between water-based and oil-based paints, it is essential to consider the specific project requirements, the desired finish, and the surface to be painted. Water-based paints are a versatile and user-friendly option for various applications.
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Oil-based paints
Oil-based paint is paint with natural or synthetic oil as one of its main components. It is known for its high durability and rich finish, making it ideal for woodwork that might be subjected to high traffic, such as cabinetry, bookcases, doors, window trim, and baseboards. Oil-based paint can be used on almost all surfaces, and it dries extremely hard, making it resistant to nicks, dings, and stains.
However, there are some drawbacks to using oil-based paint. For one, it is not environmentally friendly, and it is being phased out in favour of more durable water-based alternatives. Oil-based paint also takes significantly longer to dry than water-based paints, requiring between 8 to 16 hours between coats and 30+ days for curing. During this time, the space must be kept dust-free to prevent particles from settling on the wet surfaces. Oil-based paints also yellow over time, especially when exposed to light, which can be problematic if you have chosen a light shade.
Additionally, oil-based paints emit very strong odours due to the high levels of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) present in most formulas, so proper ventilation during application is crucial. Oil-based paint is also challenging to clean up, requiring harsh solvents like turpentine or paint thinners for brushes, rollers, and hands. Disposal of the paint and paint thinner can be a hassle, as they require proper hazmat disposal and cannot be poured down the drain.
Despite these drawbacks, oil-based paint can still be the best option for certain projects. It is available in many different sheens, and its tough finish makes it suitable for high-traffic areas.
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Acrylic paints
Acrylic paint is one of the most popular paints for artists, as well as for crafting, pouring, fluid art, and ceramics. It is also commonly used by beginners in painting. Acrylic paint is water-based, which makes it easier to wash out of brushes and most art materials. It is made of colour pigments mixed with a polymer emulsion that acts as a binder. When wet, acrylic paint can be thinned with water and cleaned easily. However, once dry, it forms a water-resistant, flexible, and durable film that is permanent. The time it takes for acrylic paint to dry depends on factors such as paint thickness, humidity, temperature, layers applied, and brand. Generally, acrylic paint dries relatively quickly, usually within minutes to hours.
Acrylic paint is versatile and can be used on various surfaces, including canvas, wood, paper, fabric, and more. It is available in a wide range of opacities and colours, with vivid hues that artists appreciate. Acrylic paint can be sealed with a varnish or enamel spray, and you can choose from various finish options, including satin, gloss, or matte. To slow the drying time of acrylic paint, you can use an extender, which increases the "open time" and allows for easier blending of colours and edges.
When purchasing acrylic paint, it is recommended to invest in high-quality tools and brushes to achieve better results. Acrylic paint sets, brushes, paint pens, and canvases are readily available from various art supply companies, such as Arteza, Amazon, and Jerry's Artarama.
Acrylic paint is an excellent option for those seeking versatility, durability, and ease of use. Its quick-drying property enables the use of other media on top of the dried surface, making it a popular choice for artists and hobbyists alike.
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Paint sheen/finish
The finish or sheen of a paint refers to how much light it reflects. Paints with a sheen reflect light and appear shiny, while paints without a sheen absorb light. Sheen is often described as the "shine" or "glossiness" of a paint. The higher the sheen, the tougher the finish, and the easier it is to clean.
There are five types of paint sheen: flat or matte, eggshell, satin, semi-gloss, and gloss. Flat or matte paints have a non-reflective, smooth appearance that hides surface blemishes. They are the least durable and are best suited for low-traffic areas like bedrooms, drywall, and ceilings. Eggshell finish has a low sheen and a soft, smooth finish. It is perfect for low- to mid-traffic areas like hallways, living rooms, and entryways. Satin paints have a slight sheen, making the texture more noticeable. They are stronger than flat paints and can be used in high-traffic areas that require frequent scrubbing, such as kids' rooms. Semi-gloss paints have more sheen and durability than satin finishes. They are suitable for high-traffic areas like bathrooms and kitchens as they can withstand cleaning without wearing down. High-gloss paints have a bright, shiny finish and tend to draw more attention, so they are often used for bold colours or focal points.
The sheen of a paint can alter the perception of its colour. For example, a tint of white may appear brighter in a glossy finish compared to a flat finish. It is important to note that sheen is not standardised across brands, so it is recommended to check actual samples when comparing paints. Additionally, the sheen of a paint can be customised by mixing different finishes together.
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Speciality paints
When it comes to speciality paints, there are numerous options to choose from, each serving a specific purpose. Here are some of the commonly used speciality paints:
Exterior Paints
Exterior paints are designed to withstand the elements and protect the exterior of your house. Acrylic paint is a popular choice for exteriors due to its durability and resistance to mildew, mould, UV rays, and water damage. It is ideal for siding, shutters, doors, and other exterior features. Water-based acrylic emulsions are environmentally friendly, emitting fewer volatile organic compounds (VOCs) than oil-based paints.
Anti-Corrosive Paints
Anti-corrosive paints are ideal for metallic surfaces and industrial products. They are made from anti-corrosive elements like linseed oil, zinc chrome, and fine sand, which help prevent corrosion and protect against rust, chemical, and environmental degradation.
Enamel Paints
Enamel paints are oil-based solvents that provide a glossy finish and high durability. They are water and stain-resistant, making them suitable for humid and wet spaces like bathrooms and kitchens. Enamel paints work well on various surfaces, including metal, wood, and concrete, and are often used for kitchen cabinets due to their toughness.
Masonry Paint
Masonry paint is typically used on exterior surfaces such as brick, stone, concrete, plaster, and pebble dash. It offers long-lasting weatherproofing and protection. Masonry paint comes in two finishes: smooth and textured. The smooth finish is easier to clean, while the textured finish is better at hiding imperfections but requires more frequent cleaning.
Aluminium Paints
Aluminium paints provide a silvery finish and are strong and durable due to their resin content. They are resistant to electricity, weather, corrosion, and water. Aluminium paints are commonly used on hot water tanks, hot pipes, masonry, and oil storage tanks.
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Frequently asked questions
Paint finishes, also known as sheens, refer to the amount of light reflected from the paint's surface. The sheens range from flat (no shine) to high-gloss (maximum shine). The higher the sheen, the more durable and washable the finish. Flat or matte paints absorb more light, semi-gloss and gloss paints reflect light, and paints with a glossy finish are easier to scrub and clean.
There are two main categories of paint: oil-based paints and water-based paints. Oil-based paints are usually applied as a primer, undercoat, and finish coat. Water-based paints are the most common type of interior paint and are available in a range of sheens from matte to super-glossy. They are easy to apply and clean and are environmentally friendly.
Some specialty types of paint include acrylic, enamel, aluminium, anti-corrosive, and metallic paint. Acrylic paint is often used for exteriors due to its durability and resistance to mildew, mould, UV rays, and water damage. Enamel paint is an expensive but highly durable option that provides a glossy finish and is water and stain-resistant. Metallic paint can be used to achieve a high-shine finish that mimics various metals. Aluminium paint provides a silvery finish and is strong and durable, making it ideal for hot water tanks, pipes, and masonry. Anti-corrosive paints are perfect for metallic surfaces as they help prevent corrosion.
When choosing a paint finish, consider the amount of traffic the room receives. High-use areas require more durable finishes like satin or semi-gloss. Also, think about the condition of the walls—glossy paints highlight flaws, while flat paints help hide them. If the room is likely to get messy, opt for easier-to-clean finishes. Finally, consider the overall aesthetic—matte finishes create a softer look, while gloss adds drama and light reflection.
