Selecting the Right Types of Paint

You have finally decided that you want to colour your home and now you are so caught up in choosing the right shade. In truth, opting for an avocado green or a raspberry red is not the only factor you will have to consider. You will also have to think about the type of paint that you will use. To make it easier for you, here are some basic descriptions of the common paints that you can usually find in stores.

The general categories of paint are latex and oil-based paints. The former kind is a water-thinned coating that is ready to use. The application to your walls is easy, and you can wash it off with just soap and water when you are done painting. The second type is a thick, solvent-thinned coating that is more durable than the former, so it is preferably used in kitchens, bathrooms, and other areas that usually have a lot of activity. It has a stronger odour than latex and can be quite messy to apply, but it is easy to spread and provides a glowing or warm look to the room. This also gives good protection from natural elements and the wear and tear of daily use.

Other kinds are primers and fire-retardant paints. The first is used as a base coating on wood and plaster walls to fill in the uneven surfaces to provide a smooth finish for the second layer. The other type is not completely resistant to fire, but it has a chemical component that helps in preventing the spread of the flames. This makes it favourable for places and items that are vulnerable to catching fire, such as ovens and boilers.