A new coat of paint can refresh any room of your home effortlessly. If you like to handle the painting yourself, then also you would need the right supplies. There are numerous paint options to select from and finding the ideal paint type for every purpose can be challenging. So we have come up with our handy guide that will help you in choosing the right paint from the various types.

Know about Paint Sheens

What type of finish you’re aiming at is the first decision that you need to make when selecting the type of paint? Paints are classified by sheen or the amount of light that’s reflected from the paint surface.

Full-Array of Paint Sheen Types:

• Gloss: Gloss paint reflects and it looks stunning in the right settings and is the easiest to clean. On the flip side, it can highlight imperfection in surfaces and is generally pricier.
• Semi-Gloss: Semi-gloss paint is generally moisture-resistant, making it perfect for bathrooms and kitchens. It is a hard-wearing paint that can make wall colours stand out.
• Flat: Flat is the most affordable option and the least reflective type. It would not be ideal for surfaces that are often touched or exposed to the elements.
• Satin: Unless you like the matte look, satin paint can be a practical choice for any room of the home and it’s a little glossier than eggshell.
• Eggshell: If you’re someone who likes something in-between gloss and matte, then eggshell paint is for you. Eggshell paint is more durable and simple to clean, and it looks flat from most angles.
• Matte: Matte paint generally used for ceilings can hide minor defects in surfaces. Besides, it is slightly shinier and more lasting than a flat finish.

What Are The Different Paint Types?

A variety of paint types are available and each is used to achieve a specific purpose:

• Water-based paint
• Oil-based paint
• Primer
• Low toxic paints
• Enamel paint
• Spray paint
• Eco-friendly paints
• Chalk paint
• Lead-free paint
• Paint additives

Water-Based Paint

Water-based paints are also known as latex-based paints. It is the best option for walls and ceilings that don’t obtain a lot of wear and tear. They dry quicker than oil-based paints, so more coats in a day are possible. On the flip side, this paint is less durable, so they are not ideal for high-traffic surfaces or most outdoor paint jobs.

Oil-Based Paint

Oil-based paint is also known as solvent-based paint and they are a durable paint that will withstand frequent use and mistreatment. Oil-based paints are perfect for outdoor painting and they will endure than water-based paints on furniture, doors and windows. The only drawback oil-based paints has is they need more time to dry, it may take up to 24 hours per the paint brand.

Primer

Primer is not 100% paint, but it’s an essential ingredient in most cases if you’re painting a surface for the very first time. Primer is like a seal that enhances the adhesion of paint to surfaces, assisting it to last longer. Besides, if you have strong paint, then you can do without a primer. Nonetheless, never use a primer as a top coat by itself.

Low Toxic Paints

As a thumb role, oil-based paints are more toxic than water-based paints. Secondly, the stronger a paint smells, the more toxic it is. Select products having a low level of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) if you’re anxious about the toxicity of paints. All the leading paint brands make low toxic products.

Enamel Paint

Paints that are classified as ‘Enamel’ will provide a more durable and long-lasting finish than ordinary or standard paints. Enamel paints are oil-based largely, but you’ll also get water-based variants that are suitable for cabinets and furniture.

Spray Paint

If you love artwork then spray paint can be a resourceful way to paint furniture and other objects in and outside of the home including the walls. Indeed, spray paint can be done a lot quicker than conventional painting, but it is important that you protect yourself from the fumes and only spray in a well-ventilated area or outdoors.

Eco-Friendly Paints

If you need safer, environmentally friendly paints that do not pose any health hazards of VOCs in paint, then look for products that use 100% natural ingredients like clay-based or plant-based paints. Although these paints require a longer time to dry, the results are comparable to standard paint types.

Chalk Paint

Don’t get confused with the chalkboard paint! Chalk paint is an environmentally friendly water-based paint that provides high-quality adhesion to surfaces. Besides, you can purchase chalk paint powder and mix it with the standard paint. Typically, chalk paint leaves a matte finish; however, this versatile paint can be paired with other paint types to obtain a textured or glossy finish.

Lead-Free Paint

No paint is completely free from lead. However, all paint sold since 1997 in Australia can only have lead content up to 0.1%. It is for safeguarding overall health and safety from lead exposure. Besides, check with the paint brands to know how much lead their paint-products contain. If you think that your current paint in your home might contain lead, then you should right away talk to a professional about how to go about removing lead paint safely. And never risk removing it all by yourself and putting your household in jeopardy.

Paint Additives

When you purchase paint additives and mix them to your paint, your paint can not only enhance insulation in your home but also augment the visual looks. Well, paint additives can be used with all types of paint to aid lower heat loss in the cooler months and reflect more heat away from your home in the warmer months.

Premium Paint Brands That Are Highly Sought-After

Well, when selecting a paint brand, the cost is an essential consideration but it should not be the only factor. Other factors that also need due consideration include availability in desired colours, easy to apply and won’t let you down with a limited lifespan or dull finish.

Here are the major paint brands available in Australia:

• Berger
• Dulux
• Solver
• British Paints
• Haymes Paint
• Wattyl
• Taubmans

Depending on your requirements, each of the above paint brands creates an array of quality outdoor and indoor paints.

Do You Need Help with Your House Painting Project?

Well, touch base with Sydney Metro Painting expert painters for their top recommendations. Straightaway, hire professional house painters in Sydney and enjoy the best results that last longer.