Picking the right paint for your project can be overwhelming with so many options available. Should you go with matte or satin? Is oil-based better than water-based? Do you need a primer? Choosing the right paint isn’t just about color—it’s about durability, finish, and application. This guide will help you make the right choice so you get the best results for your home.
Step 1: Understand Paint Types
There are two main types of paint:
✅ Water-Based (Latex) Paints – Fast-drying, easy to clean, low odor, and environmentally friendly. Ideal for walls, ceilings, and general interior use.
✅ Oil-Based Paints – More durable and stain-resistant, making them great for high-traffic areas, trim, and cabinets. However, they take longer to dry and require solvents for cleanup.
💡 Pro Tip: Use water-based paints for most interior projects and oil-based for furniture and surfaces that need extra durability.
Step 2: Choose the Right Finish
Paint finishes affect both the look and durability of your walls. Here’s a quick breakdown:
✔ Matte (Flat) – No shine, great for hiding imperfections, best for low-traffic areas like ceilings and bedrooms.
✔ Eggshell – Soft, subtle sheen, easy to clean, and works well in living rooms and hallways.
✔ Satin – Slightly glossier than eggshell, ideal for kitchens, bathrooms, and high-traffic areas.
✔ Semi-Gloss – Durable, moisture-resistant, and perfect for trim, doors, and cabinets.
✔ Gloss (High-Gloss) – Super shiny and durable, best for accents like furniture and doors.
💡 Pro Tip: If you’re painting a room that gets a lot of use, go for a satin or semi-gloss finish for easy maintenance.
Step 3: Pick the Right Paint for Each Room
🏡 Living Rooms & Bedrooms – Use eggshell or satin for a smooth, elegant look.
🍽️ Kitchen & Bathroom – Semi-gloss or satin is best because they resist moisture and stains.
🚪 Trim, Doors & Cabinets – Semi-gloss or high-gloss for a polished, easy-to-clean surface.
👶 Kids’ Rooms & High-Traffic Areas – Satin or semi-gloss for durability and easy cleaning.
🎨 Ceilings – Flat or matte to hide imperfections and minimize glare.
💡 Pro Tip: Choose a mold-resistant paint for bathrooms and kitchens to prevent moisture damage.
Step 4: Do You Need a Primer?
A primer helps paint adhere better and improves durability. Here’s when to use it:
✔ New drywall or porous surfaces – Use a primer to create an even base.
✔ Painting over dark colors – A primer prevents dark shades from bleeding through.
✔ Covering stains or glossy surfaces – Helps block stains and allows paint to stick properly.
If your paint has built-in primer (like Dulux Weatherguard or Plascon Double Velvet), you might not need a separate one, saving time and effort.
Step 5: Consider Durability & Washability
For high-traffic areas like hallways, kids’ rooms, and kitchens, choose a washable and scrubbable paint like Plascon Double Velvet or Dulux Weatherguard. These paints resist stains and allow easy cleaning without damaging the finish.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right paint ensures a long-lasting, beautiful finish that suits your space. Whether you’re repainting your home or starting fresh, make sure you pick the right type, finish, and quality for the job.
Need high-quality paint for your next project? Shop at Rochas Paint & Building Supplies today for top brands at great prices!