When doing up home interiors, homeowners typically fret over the colour of the walls. Should it be cream or beige? Or should it be a bold turquoise or a bright and sunny yellow? No one pays attention to the type of paint being used but interior designers swear by it! Whether emulsion or oil-based, types of paint is as crucial as the tone, shade and colour.

Yes, we know,  technicalities can be confusing.

What’s the difference between types of paint, you wonder? Here’s an easy-to-follow guide on the basics of paint. But for a guide on what paint you should use in your bathroom vis-à-vis your bedroom, scroll down to learn from the experts.

PRO Tip: Before we dive into the nitty-gritties, remember to always begin with a primer or a base coat when painting any surface.

#1: What is the Best Paint for Doors and Windows?

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Use waterproof Duco paint for your wooden doors and windows to enhance shelf life

When painting wood, opt for PU (polyurethane) paint as this paint is best suited for materials with high wear and tear. You can also opt for Duco paint as it’s waterproof. Both Duco and PU paints give a semi-glossy shine and enhance the shelf life of your doors, windows, trims, window frames and sills.

Did you Know?

Ideal for all wood and metal surfaces, Duco paint 

  • Is water-resistant
  • Is fast drying
  • Has high solid content
  • Has self-levelling properties
  • Gives a smooth and hard finish

PRO Tip

For window grills, use metal paints. Duco paint and PU paint can be used to paint furniture.

#2: What Kind of Paint is Best for Ceilings?

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If you are not into decorative ceilings, keep your walls as the centre of attention

Your primary goal in your home is to keep the attention on your walls and furniture, unless of course you have decorative false ceilings. Using plastic emulsion paints in a smooth acrylic matte finish prevents light from reflecting off the ceiling and drawing the eyes up.

#3: What is the Best Paint for Interior Walls?

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Shiny wall paints are also more durable for the interiors of your home

You can either opt for emulsion or enamel-based paints while painting most walls of your home. The thumb rule is the shinier the finish of the paint, the more durable it is. Enamel paints, though durable, are also expensive.

PRO Tip

For those allergic to the smell of paint, use only water-based varieties. They emit less odour, dry faster and are non-toxic.

#4: Types of Paint for Different Rooms

What are the best types of paint for each room? While emulsion and enamel-based paints are best used for most indoor walls, you may want to choose from varying finishes to suit the needs of the occupants of every room.

Kitchens and Bathrooms

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Choose water-resistant paint for your kitchen and bathroom

Kitchens and bathrooms are usually damp and prone to forming moulds. When painting these walls, mould inhibitors should be added to the paints. Alternatively, choosing a waterproof paint also works.

PRO Tip

Use chalkboard paint in a section of your kitchen to write down recipes and make to-do lists or grocery lists. This is also a fun option in the kid’s bedroom.

Living and Dining Rooms

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Opt for durable paints in your living and dining areas that tie in with the home decor

Living and dining rooms are typically the centres of activity in most homes, especially during the day or when guests are over. Hence, opt for durable paint that has a satin finish. Choose rich textures if your room has ample natural light. If space is a constraint, then opt for lighter hues so that the space seems brighter and larger.

Children’s Room

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Use washable paint in the kids’ room so that cleaning is easy

Does your kid have a vivid imagination? Then the wall is their canvas to scribble and showcase their artistic skills. Washable paints are easy to maintain and come in vivid hues to match any style you pick for your kids’ bedroom. Avoid using oil-based paints as they emit chemical toxins when they dry and sometimes even after drying.

PRO Tip

You cannot scrub most paints to remove stains. Ensure that you check if the paint type is washable and/or scrubbable.

Bedrooms

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Choose a richly textured paint for your bedroom

When decorating your personal abode, you tend to get creative. For this, we suggest you go for a satin finish that’s rich in texture.

Check out wall paint ideas:

How can Livspace help you?

Choosing types of paint isn’t rocket science, but it is always advised to seek professional help. This is where Livspace’s expertise comes in. Book a consultation with one of our designers and get quality and safe interiors. To know more about our COVID-19 safety standards, visit here.

Don’t miss our price guide on painting: What is the Per sq. ft. Cost of Painting a House in 2021?

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