What type of paint is best for interior walls?

Short Answer

Choosing the right paint depends on factors such as durability, finish, and ease of maintenance.

Long Answer

Choosing the right paint for interior walls is crucial to ensuring both a beautiful finish and long-lasting durability. The most commonly recommended paints for interior walls are latex-based, as they are easy to clean, quick-drying, and have low levels of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which helps to improve indoor air quality.

When selecting the type of paint, we also consider the finish. The most popular finishes for interior walls are:

  • Matte (Flat): This finish has no shine and is excellent for hiding surface imperfections. It’s best suited for low-traffic areas like bedrooms, ceilings, and areas with minimal wear. However, it may be more difficult to clean compared to glossier finishes.

  • Eggshell: Offering a soft sheen, eggshell is one of the most common finishes for interior walls, providing a balance of durability and aesthetics. It’s great for areas like living rooms and dining rooms, where the walls need to withstand light to moderate traffic but still look elegant.

  • Satin: Satin finishes have a smooth, velvety sheen and are more durable than eggshell. They are easy to clean, making them ideal for high-traffic areas like hallways, kitchens, and bathrooms. Satin paint is also moisture-resistant, which is particularly beneficial in rooms with high humidity.

  • Semi-Gloss and Gloss: These finishes are typically reserved for trim, doors, and cabinetry. They are highly durable, easy to clean, and resistant to stains, making them perfect for high-use areas. While they have a shiny finish, they can highlight imperfections, so they may not be ideal for the walls themselves.

We will consider the specific needs of each room to ensure you get the best performance from your paint choice. For example, bathrooms and kitchens may benefit from a satin or semi-gloss finish due to the higher humidity levels, while living rooms may look great with an eggshell finish. Additionally, we’ll discuss factors like colour, texture, and longevity to help you make an informed decision that suits your lifestyle and budget.