Every paint brand offers a variety of paint qualities, and while not every job requires the premiere version, Campbell recommends customers, “buy the best paint they can afford.” This is because high-quality paint offers better coverage and protection. In other words, the finished product will look good and perform well, while lower-quality paint can result in drips, adhesion issues, bleeding, and peeling. In addition to quality, you’ll want to come into the paint store prepared to talk about sheen. Campbell says, “Many customers don’t realize there are different paint sheens, but picking the right one is a crucial decision when it comes to appearance and durability. For example, something with a flat or matte finish is great for covering surface imperfections, which is why most contractors choose it for new homes. However, the finish is difficult to clean. On the other hand, sheens like satin and semi-gloss reflect light in a way that can highlight imperfections, but the surface is durable and easier to clean.” CHOOSE THE RIGHT PAINT 1.
You’ll also need to decide between latex or oil-based paint. For most paint jobs, latex will be the easiest to use because it’s a water-based product. That means it’s easy to clean up brushes and other supplies without any special cleaners. Plus, latex dries much faster than oil paint. However, oil paints are often more durable so they might be a good choice for trim, cabinets, and other areas that see high impact. Once you’ve selected a brand, sheen, and type of paint, it’s time to finalize your color selection. Campbell says, “Customers should prepare to spend some time making color decisions. It can be a detailed process. We recommend narrowing down your options by displaying color swatches in different types of lighting within the space. Then get a few paint samples to apply to the wall before committing to full gallons.” Actually putting a small amount of paint on the wall is worth the effort, even though it might mean making a few extra trips back and forth from the paint store. The many slight variations between tints, hues, and bases can result in dramatically different looks. Campbell makes the point saying, “There are many, many shades of white and every other color. Come into a paint selection with more in mind than just blue, white, or green. Think about the undertones and overall effect you want for your space. If this is too overwhelming, hire a color consultant for help.”
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November 2024
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