How to Select Paint
Initially, you will need to decide whether you will select a latex ( water based) paint or an oil based paint. Some of the newer paints may actually be produced with synthetic materials that perform like latex. You may want to consider the easier clean up that comes along with a water based paint before you select your brand and color.
Gloss paint has features that vary from one manufacturer to another. Although the basic meaning of each of the terms will remain the same, the appearance will vary slightly from one brand to another. To further explain, a semi gloss paint in one brand may look as shiny or glossy as the high gloss paint in another brand. Therefore, it will be important for you to look at the paint samples for each type and brand of paint that you are considering for selection.
The range of gloss is as follows: high, semi gloss, eggshell, satin, low sheen, and flat. It is important to note that in the case of paint gloss, eggshell is not a color, but it is a very slight gloss. Since the amount of gloss will change the look of the paint and therefore, its effect, it is important to consider this feature prior to your selection.
Paint with a lower gloss will give a smoother appearance and will not highlight certain irregularities in the surface to be painted. Lower gloss paint is recommended as the best selection for the inexperienced painter, especially since it touches up quite nicely without leaving telltale signs.
Higher gloss paint will not hide marks such as indentations, drywall seams, and scratches, but rather it tends to make them more pronounced. In general, though, higher gloss paint will not only resist certain types of marks, but also cleans up more easily. Therefore, it is important to consider the end result that you are trying to achieve before your select the type of gloss for your paint purchase.
Try to select a low sheen or flat paint for ceilings and walls in your low traffic areas, such as bedrooms, living rooms, and dining rooms. Theses areas do not require as much touch up or clean up due to their lack of use. However, unless you are using a mildew resistant type of paint, you should avoid using flat paint for the bathroom entirely. In bathrooms, family rooms, dens, and kitchens, select a higher gloss paint because it will hold up to washing and touch up much better than a flat paint. Semi gloss paint is usually sufficient for the trim and woodwork in all rooms.
There are also other factors to consider when selecting your paint. If you are contrasting the colors of the ceiling, walls, and trim, then a higher degree of skill will be necessary for the painter. Remember that a high gloss paint is more difficult to use than a low gloss paint. However, if you are using a skilled painter, this will not be a problem.
Obviously, a much lower degree of skill will be needed if the ceiling, walls, and trim are all painted in the same color or similar shades. Selecting a low gloss paint for this type of job is more than sufficient.
A base coat will also need to be considered, unless you are painting a newly constructed room. The primer paint is generally white in a new room, and therefore, a light colored paint might require only one coat. A darker base coat will necessitate purchasing a darker color or more paint if you select a lighter color. Therefore, consider the quantity of the paint prior to your purchase to ensure having sufficient paint for the job.
Remember, also, to consider the quality of the paint you are purchasing as well. Higher quality paint may cost you more, but in the long run, it will also last longer. This is because it will give you more paint coverage and wash up better.
There is more to selecting the right paint for you than choosing a favorite color. Consider the room location, base color of the surface, condition of the surface to be painted, the skill of the painter, and, of course, the colors that appeal to you. So, make your pint selection wisely and let it shine.
