FAQ About Types of Paint Used

Painting is not a hard job but it can be confusing, especially when it comes to knowing what to buy. Questions start to arise when you see all the different types of paint on the shelves.  Should I use flat paint? Can I use semi-gloss in a bathroom? It’s important to read some common questions and answers about types of paint used.

• What are the different types of textured paint?  Textured paint can come as premixed paint, self-mixing paint, smooth textured paint and alternative finishes.  Premixed paint is typically paint mixed with sand and is used on ceilings.  Self-mixing paint is one that you mix yourself by adding ingredients such as sand.  The benefit of this is that it allows you to create the amount of texture that you desire.  Smooth texture paint is heavy and thick, does not contain anything to create texture and may need to be applied with a putty knife.  It is used to create the look of stucco.  Alternative finishes give you more options when deciding on textured paint.  Finishes include a glossy, matte or flat finishes.


• What is latex paint?  Latex paint is a water-based paint.  The benefit to this type of paint is that it cleans up well with soap and water. The drawback is that it is not as durable as an oil-based paint. 


• What is an oil-based paint?  An oil-based paint is an alkyd-based paint. It has the advantages that it is easy to put on, is very durable and easy to clean.  The disadvantage to this type of paint is that it requires paint thinner for paintbrush clean up.  Considered an enamel, this paint is best used for trim, window and doors.


• What is epoxy paint?  Epoxy paint is a type of paint used for flooring in commercial and industrial facilities such as factories, grocery stores and garages.  The benefits of epoxy paint are that it is waterproof, slip-resistant and resistant to chemical spills.  It comes in a variety of colors and textures.


• What is acrylic latex paint used for? Acrylic latex paint is very durable and flexible.  It can be used for both interior and exterior uses.    It can be used exteriorly on wood, metal and vinyl.  For exterior uses, it is recommended to look for paint stating 100 percent acrylic.  Interior uses include trim and woodwork and areas that have a lot of humidity such as kitchens and bathrooms.


• What is satin paint?  Satin paint is a type of finish used in areas requiring durability.  Featuring a medium gloss finish, it can be purchased in latex or oil-based paint as well as interior or exterior.  Interiorly, it can be used in bedrooms, living rooms and kitchens. Exteriorly, it can be used on wood and aluminum siding. An important benefit of satin paint is that it is easy to clean.


• What is semi-gloss paint? Semi-gloss paint can be purchased as an interior or exterior paint.  It has a subtle shine but is not as reflective as a high-gloss paint and is shinier than flat paint.  This is a durable paint and can be cleaned easily; therefore, it is good for areas of high traffic such as kitchens, stairways, and bathrooms as well as on doors and trim. 


• What is high-gloss paint?  A high gloss paint can be water-based or oil-based and is highly reflective.  Because of this, it will show imperfections.  As such, it is also known for being very durable.  Because of its high gloss, it is easily cleaned which makes it great for areas that see a lot of traffic. It is good for exterior uses such as metal, playground equipment and accents on a home.