What types of paint are there? What are the differences? Which type should I choose? These are all questions you might ask yourself if you are looking to paint your home. Below we will discuss the different types as well as primers and sealers so you can make the best choice for your home.
Primers and Sealers–
Primers and sealers are designed to provide either a surface for the finish paints or a clear top coat.
•Primers
Primers are made to seal the surface off and provide a base for the finish paint. They can be used on bare wood, metal, and previously painted surfaces.
•Sealers
Sealers insure your paint lasts longer and peeling and premature wear is eliminated. This is an extremely important part in getting a long lasting and durable finish.
Finish paints–
There are two types of finish paints used today. Those are alkyd and latex paint.
•Alkyd paint
Alkyd paint is also known as oil-based paint and provides an excellent finish. However, it can be tricky to use, it is hard to clean up, not to mention it has a strong odor and is flammable.
•Latex paint
Latex paint also provides a great finish and it is an easer paint to use. It also cleans up with soap and water, dries quickly, has less odor, is non-flammable, and easy to touch up.
Gloss levels–
The gloss or sheen of a paint is defined by the amount of light that is reflected off the surface of a paint finish. There are four basic sheens: flat, satin, semi gloss and gloss.
•Flat
Flat paint has zero reflective properties providing a matte finish. This finish helps to hide surface imperfections. It is normally used for ceilings and walls and in areas that are not subjected to a lot of wear and tear.
•Satin
Satin paint provides a soft sheen comparable to that of an eggshell. A satin finish provides a harder surface finish which in turn is more durable and more stain resistant than a flat finish. This durability makes satin paint a good choice for walls in bedrooms, hallways, stairways and family rooms.
•Semi Gloss
Semi gloss paint is very durable. It is easier to clean and is more resistant to stains than satin finish paint. Semi gloss paint is most often used on heavy wear areas that are frequently cleaned such as kitchens and bathrooms. Semi gloss paint is also great to use on wood trim and cabinets.
•Gloss
Gloss paint is the most hard, durable, and stain resistant. It is also easier to clean than all the other paint finishes. Gloss paint is the best choice for heavy wear areas like kitchens, bathrooms, cabinets, floors, stairs, handrails, high traffic doors, and trim. However, it is important to note that gloss paint generally makes surface imperfections a lot more noticeable.
For more information on paint types and finishes please feel free to give us a call.
C&H Construction is a licensed general contractor and Custom Home builder located in Blairsville, Union County Georgia serving Towns County Georgia, Fannin County Georgia, Gilmer County Georgia and the North Georgia Mountains