A fresh coat of paint tends to make everything look new. If you are considering a home upgrade, painting its interior or exterior is a quick and easy way to refresh your home without breaking the bank.
Nothing can transform a home more than paint. In short, painting is a home improvement project that should deliver amazing results without the time and disruptions of a full-scale remodeling project.
What is Paint?
Paint consists of pigments, resins, additives and solvents:
Pigments:
Finely ground material that gives paint its color.
Resins:
Holds the pigments together and helps the paint attach to the surface. Its amount of elasticity is dependent on whether the paint is for interior or exterior use (see below).
Additives:
Improve the look and performance of the paint. Examples include thickeners (chemicals that create a matte, satin, or high-gloss finish), fungicides and mildewcides.
Solvents:
Dissolve and combine the ingredients into a liquid and evaporates as the paint dries. Water is the solvent used in water based paints (such as acrylic or latex) and turpentine or mineral spirits are used in oil based paints.
Interior versus Exterior Paint?
The primary difference between interior and exterior paint is the type of resins or additives that are used to manufacture the paint.
PURPOSE
RESINS
ADDITIVES
Interior Paint:
Prevent/reduce smudges on interior walls.
Made with rigid resins formulated to not trap dirt/dust and easy cleaning
Available in a wide variety of finishes such as matte, eggshell, satin, semi-gloss, gloss and faux finishes.
Exterior Paint:
Additional layer of protection from the environment.
Made with flexible resins in order to withstand contraction and expansion due to temperature fluctuations.
Contains additives designed to resist moisture (such as fungicides) and fading as well as helping the paint adhere to the surface (particularly rough surfaces).
The additives and resins often contain and emit a high amount of VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds). Exterior paint typically contains more VOC than interior paint.
When interior paint is used on exterior surfaces, the lifespan of the item is typically shortened because interior paint is not manufactured to withstand fluctuating temperatures, harsh weather conditions or UV rays.
Types of Paint
There are a wide variety of different coatings available for specific uses. In general, there are three categories of paint available. Each has its own advantages and disadvantages so understanding the differences can save you time, money and frustration.
Oil-Based Paint
Chemical-Based Paint
Water-Based Paint
Proper ventilation should be provided regardless of type of paint. Paint can produce dangerous fumes that can cause health issues when breathed in.
Enamel Paint
Enamel is an oil-based paint that results in a hard, glossy finish that makes it perfect for outdoor surfaces. While it is not typically used inside, because of its sheen and durability it is widely used on interior trim and moulding.
Pros:
Results in a strong, glossy surface
Durable
Waterproof
Good for high traffic areas
Can withstand fluctuating temperatures
Cons:
Produces dangerous fumes
May lose shine over time
Acrylic Paint
Acrylic paint is chemical-based and is one of the most popular types of paint. It is manufactured with an acrylic resin that is combined with an acrylic-polymer solution. The result is a water-resistant surface when dry. Because it dries quickly, acrylic paint is best used on smaller interior surfaces.
Pros:
Water resistant
Dries quickly
Elastic (will contract and expand with temperature fluctuations)
Fade resistant
Not prone to flaking or cracking
Cons:
Requires paint thinner
Produces dangerous fumes
Will not adhere to a surface previously painted with oil-based paint
Expensive
Latex Paint
Similar to acrylic paint, latex paint contains an acrylic resin. Unlike acrylic paint, latex paint is water-based and is best used on larger areas because it is easier to spread. Because it is water-based, latex paint can be disposed of with regular waste.
Pros:
Environmentally friendly
Easy to clean (soap and water)
Easy to apply
Cost effective
Requires less coats for coverage
Requires less coats for coverage
Cons:
Not as elastic (will not contract or expand with temperature fluctuations)
Susceptible to cracks
Other Paint Types
Advances in technology have enabled paint manufacturers to become more innovative with the types of paint they fabricate.
Latex Enamel Paint
As the name suggests, latex enamel paint is a combination of latex and enamel paint. The result is a shiny, waterproof look. However, it does not contain the chemicals that produce the fumes of oil-based paints so it can also be used on interior surfaces.
Chalk Paint
Commonly used in furniture upcycling projects, chalk paint can be applied to practically any surface. Chalk paint surfaces do not need to be sanded or primed. The name refers to its velvety matte finish and is often sealed with wax or lacquer depending on the desired look.
Milk Paint
Typically purchased as a powder, milk paint is mixed with water to create a liquid paint. Due to the fact that it is primarily water-based, milk paint requires curing, which takes place when water evaporates from the paint, making it harder. The curing process typically takes 20-30 days. Milk paint can be applied to virtually any surface (such as wood, stone, plastic, tile etc.). Once cured, surfaces covered with milk paint become waterproof, scuff-resistant and durable.
Clay Paint
One of the most eco-friendly paint options, clay paint is a great option for anyone looking for sustainable materials. Clay paint dries to a soft matte finish and can stain much easier than other paint types. This type of paint is commonly used in period homes (generally homes built prior to World War One) because the clay soaks up moisture, helping to regulate the internal humidity.
Limewash
Made from lime and water, limewash has been used in homes for centuries. Limewash has become one of the most popular paint finishes because it results in a matte finish with a mottled look. This type of paint is ideal for porous surfaces such as lime plaster, stone and brick.
Distemper
Distemper is an early form of whitewash made of water, chalk, pigment and a bonding agent. When dry, the result is a soft chalky matte finish with high opacity. Distemper is ideal for restorations and older homes and is commonly used in bedrooms, living rooms and dining areas.
Air Purifying Paint
This innovative paint helps make the air in your home easier and healthier to breathe. Air purifying paint is manufactured with the ability to remove unwanted odors and toxins such as Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC) and Carbon Dioxide that are commonly emitted into the home through adhesives, finishes etc.
Anti-Bacterial and Anti-Microbial Paint
The COVID pandemic resulted in a surge of anti-bacterial and anti-microbial products. Some manufacturers are now offering indoor paint that claims to have the ability to kill 99.9% of bacteria and viruses.
Paint Finishes
The paint finish you select can have as much of an effect on the room as the color itself. The following information should help you make an informed decision based on the specific area you are looking to paint. The finish you choose will depend on what you are painting and where it is located.
Flat
0-3% sheen
Least amount of shine
Low traffic interior surfaces
Ceilings
Smooth appearance
Provides the most coverage
Requires fewer coats to cover imperfections
Little/no reflective qualities
Matte
0-3% sheen
Very subtle sheen
Very little reflection
More durable than flat paint
Slightly velvety/chalky finish
Eggshell
10-25% sheen
Delicate sheen (like an eggshell)
Very durable
Low-Medium traffic areas
Hallways
Living rooms
Entryways
Universally used on exterior surfaces
Can peel/crack (the exception is acrylic eggshell paint because acrylic contains a resin that repels water, but it also has a higher gloss than a regular eggshell finish. Acrylic eggshell is resistant to condensation and is often used in commercial kitchens)
Can peel/crack (the exception is acrylic eggshell paint because acrylic contains a resin that repels water, but it also has a higher gloss than a regular eggshell finish. Acrylic eggshell is resistant to condensation and is often used in commercial kitchens)
Satin/Velvet/Silk
25-35% sheen
Most common interior paint
High traffic areas that require durability without a gloss
Powder rooms
Kitchens
Playrooms
Family rooms
Laundry rooms
Bathrooms
Trim
Will reflect light back into the room
Great for dark spaces (lighter shades will reflect the most light)
Low moisture rooms
Caution: The sheen may reveal brush strokes which will be difficult to cover in the future
Gloss
Gloss paint is available in several levels of sheen:
Semi-gloss
35-65% sheen
Least glossy option
Mildew resistant
High traffic areas
Bathrooms
Kitchens
Children’s rooms
Trim
Gloss
60-85% sheen
Very durable
Moisture resistant
High traffic areas
Bathrooms
Kitchens
Pantries
Garages
High (Full) Gloss
85%+ sheen
Almost glass-like appearance
Scrub/stain/moisture resistant
Washable
High traffic areas
Doors
Trim
Cabinets
Window frames
Balustrades
Baseboards
Moulding
Can be used on exterior surfaces
Shutters
Window frames
Trim
Caution: Surfaces must be prepped first because the sheen can show imperfections if not applied properly
Paint Finish Considerations
Choosing the right paint finish is often a daunting task because there are so many different options to choose from. Before you get started, there are a few things to consider.
Traffic
The amount of traffic the space will endure is a very important consideration. For example, high traffic areas such as kitchens and family rooms require a more durable finish.
Luster/Sheen
Paint finishes are categorized in terms of their luster (shine). The shininess of the paint finish will affect the amount of light that is reflected in the space. For example, if you are looking to spruce up a room with little natural light, a slightly lighter gloss will help brighten the space
Surface Imperfections
Finishes with a higher sheen are apt to highlight any imperfections on the surface. For example, surfaces with holes or nail patches will benefit from a less glossy paint to help the surface appear more smooth.
Quality
There should be no compromise in the quality of finish when choosing a paint. This is definitely something to consider because when it comes to paint, you get what you pay for.
Benefits of Painting
Painting offers both functionality and aesthetic advantages that far outweigh the costs. In fact, painting is one home improvement project that does more than simply make your home look good, paint can give your home personality - one that represents your individual style.
Curb Appeal
Painting is an easy way to boost your home’s curb appeal. Whether you are painting the entire exterior of your home or refreshing a fence, painting can breathe new life into your property.
Protection
Most of today’s premium paints are manufactured to offer protection from the elements. Quality exterior paint provides a protective outer coating to your project which acts as an added layer of protection against the elements and pests.
Air Quality
Believe it or not, painting the interior of your home can impact its air quality. Many premium paints can now be found VOC-free (Volatile Organic Compounds).
HOA
Homeowners Association standards are often quite high. Neglecting the appearance of your home can result in fines and embarrassment. Before embarking on an exterior painting project, check to see if there are any guidelines on what colors can/cannot be used.
Value
Research has shown that painting your home offers a high ROI, which means that when done properly, your painting project could increase your home’s resale value.
Siding
Exterior painting can extend the life of your home’s siding regardless of what type. It is important to note that painting is not a substitute for siding that is in poor condition.
Cost-Effective
There is not a better cost-effective way to bring new life into a drab space than with a fresh coat of paint. If you are not ready for a home renovation, painting your home’s interior or exterior can completely transform it into a fresh and inviting space you can be proud of.
Cover-Up
A new coat of paint can help cover up imperfections. Painting is a great way to cover marks, streaks, stains or previous repair damage that have proven difficult to remove.
Considerations
Before deciding on what type and finish of paint to use, it’s important to take into account several factors. When you choose the right type of paint, you can ensure that your home not only looks beautiful, but it performs the way you need it to.
VOCs
Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) are man-made chemicals commonly found in paint, household items, and in ground water contaminants. According to the EPA, “Concentrations of many VOCs are consistently higher indoors (up to 10 times higher) than outdoors”.
VOCs are used in many products we use every day to maintain our homes. Once the chemicals enter the home, they are released into the air. Long-term exposure to VOCs can increase the risk of health problems.
Following are some of the common sources of VOCs:
Paint
Caulk
Cleaning
Products
Carpeting
Air Fresheners
Vinyl Flooring
Refrigerants
Paint Thinners
Glues/Adhesives
Permanent Markers
Stain
Exposure
The amount of exposure to direct sunlight is an important factor on the color and finish of the paint you choose. Sun exposure can fade or damage (such as blistering) the paint. Surfaces that are exposed to the sun should be inspected regularly.
Inspect For Pre-Existing Damage
Before painting the exterior or interior of your home, it’s important to closely inspect the entire surface to identify potential problems (such as termite or water damage) before they become costly repairs.
STAINING
Like paint, wood stains are formulated to cover, color and protect wood. While they are both manufactured using similar ingredients (pigments and a binding agent to hold the particles together), there are significant differences.
Stains are typically oil-based and usually contain chemicals such as fungicides, preservatives, VOCs and pesticides that protect the wood’s surface from extreme weather conditions, moisture, mildew and pest infestation.
While stains are also widely used on interior wood surfaces, special attention should be paid to ensuring the type of stain being applied is appropriate for indoor use. Like paint, stains can emit dangerous fumes, so always ensure proper ventilation.
Ultimately, the decision to use paint or stain is an individual one. Quality stain should help keep your wood looking great for years to come.
Paint versus Stain
PAINT
STAIN
FUNCTION
To create a uniform color and hide surface imperfections.
To enhance and reveal wood’s natural grain (to provide a natural look).
SURFACE
Applied to the top layer of the surface with the purpose of changing its color.
Penetrate the wood to be absorbed directly into the wood’s pores..
USE
Can be applied to virtually any surface
Used primarily on wood surfaces
OPACITY
Fully opaque (completely covers the wood grain).
Transparent or semi-transparent (to allow the natural grain of the wood to show through)..
PREPARATION
Generally requires preparing the surface (sanding, priming, filling in imperfections etc.)
Can be applied directly to clean, bare wood (no priming required).
APPLICATION
Fewer coats are required (paint is thicker than stain).
Dries faster than paint, so multiple coats can be applied in less time.
DURABILITY
Can crack/peel/blister in time.
Resistant to chipping and fading (when sealed with polyurethane or similar product) .
MAINTENANCE
Low maintenance.
Can fade over time and may need to be re-coated every few years.
COST
Paint costs approximately 25% more than a stain of comparable quality.
Stains are less expensive because fewer materials are required.
If you would like to learn more, call Honey Do Men today to schedule a complimentary consultation in the comfort of your home. We will help narrow down your choices so that you can make a decision you can be proud of for many years to come.
FAQ: Can you create a FAQ related to general paint and stain coverage i.e. one gallon of paint typically covers 400 sq feet of surface area.
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Thank you Honey do men. I’ve waited 2 years to get my basement redone and couldn’t be more pleased with the results. I included a before pic for comparison. It’s night and day. From the beginning working with Vince was great. He guided me through the process, answered all of my questions and concerns. Then Angel came with his crew and did a fantastic job. I am very excited to be able to use my basement as an enticing living space, not just for storage. Thank you again for a job well done! 😀
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Provides a thicker, opaque finish that covers the surface completely.
Offers a wide range of colors and allows for customization.
Creates a protective barrier against moisture, UV rays, and weathering.
Requires more maintenance over time, including periodic repainting.
Staining:
Penetrates the surface of the material, enhancing its natural color and grain.
Comes in transparent, semi-transparent, and solid finishes, allowing varying levels of visibility of the underlying surface.
Protects against moisture, UV damage, and mildew growth while allowing the natural texture of the material to show through.
Requires less maintenance than painting, typically needing only occasional reapplication to maintain appearance and protection.
Consider the following factors when choosing between painting and staining:
Material: Painting is typically suitable for surfaces like wood, metal, or masonry, while staining is best for natural materials like wood.
Desired finish: Decide whether you prefer a solid, opaque finish (painting) or a translucent, natural-looking finish (staining).
Maintenance: Assess the level of maintenance you're willing to commit to; staining generally requires less frequent maintenance than painting.
Aesthetic preference: Determine the look you want to achieve, whether it's a bold, colorful statement (painting) or a subtle enhancement of the natural beauty of the material (staining).
Proper preparation is crucial for a successful painting or staining project:
Surface cleaning: Thoroughly clean the surface to remove dirt, dust, grease, and any existing coatings.
Sanding: Smooth rough surfaces and remove any loose or peeling paint or stain with sandpaper or a power sander.
Repairing: Fill cracks, holes, and imperfections with appropriate fillers or patching compounds, and replace any damaged or rotted wood.
Priming (for painting): Apply a primer to bare surfaces or as a bonding agent for previously painted surfaces to ensure proper adhesion and durability.
Masking and protecting: Protect surrounding surfaces, trim, and fixtures with masking tape, drop cloths, or plastic sheeting to prevent accidental paint or stain application.
Follow these tips for achieving a professional finish:
Use high-quality materials: Invest in premium paints, stains, brushes, and applicators for better coverage, durability, and finish.
Proper application: Follow the manufacturer's instructions for mixing, diluting (if necessary), and applying the paint or stain using the appropriate tools and techniques.
Work in optimal conditions: Paint or stain in moderate temperatures and low humidity to ensure proper drying and adhesion.
Apply multiple thin coats: Build up the finish gradually with multiple thin coats rather than one thick coat to avoid drips, streaks, and uneven coverage.
Allow adequate drying time: Allow sufficient drying time between coats and before subjecting the surface to use or exposure to elements to ensure a durable and long-lasting finish.
Alejandra King ClientDavid’s team at Honey Do Men did a fantastic job in our bathroom. Once all the materials arrived they started...Read More