Home Interiors

There are many different types of paints for interior and exterior house painting. It is important to use the right one for your painting and decorating, as most house paints are designed for a specific purpose. Taking the time to learn about the different kinds of house paints and the kind of effects they can achieve is essential to a professional finish.

Many painters have always argued whether in general they should use oil or water based paints. Glossy oils tend to be more impermeable to water and will bubble up if the surface beneath is damp. Oil paints usually have a stronger and more overpowering odour. You should always ventilate well when painting a house.

For exterior house painting applications water-based paints have got the upper hand. By allowing the house to breath they tend not to crack as readily. However for interior walls water based paints may make wallpaper peel. The greatest advantage is the water clean-up which make it that much more easier and convenient. Also, water-based paints tend to be more friendly to the environment.

The following is a list of the most common paints used:

Primer paints:

This type of paint is used to seal a porous area such as new surfaces or to grip onto a smooth surface. Primers come in different types for either plaster, wood or metal, or all-purpose primer, which can be used on most surfaces.

Enamel paint:
Known as a very expensive gloss paint. It can be applied to bare wood or metal without using a primer or undercoat.

Acrylic paint:
This water-based paint, when applied directly onto bare wood, allows it to breathe while keeping dampness out. The paint is quick-drying and does not flake or blister easily. These are the most widely used paint when painting a house.

Anti-condensation paint:
This paint is usually used in the kitchen and bathroom where there is a lot of water vapour present.

Always if you are not sure of how to go about tackling your painting job seek a Trade Pro’s help,  a professional house painter or decorator could save you time and money.