Using the Best Paint for the Job Jun 07, 2023

When it comes to painting, staining, or refinishing cabinets, choosing the right product can make all the difference. No one wants to spend hours (or even days) painting a room, only to have the paint start chipping or peeling weeks later. Choosing the best product for the job can help ensure a long-lasting finish and a professional-looking outcome.But with so many paints available on the market, how do you know which one is the best choice for your project? Let's take a closer look at some of the key factors to consider when selecting paint.1. Surface typeBefore you begin shopping for paint, it’s important to consider the type of surface you'll be painting. Different paints are formulated for different surfaces, such as walls, trim, cabinets, or furniture.For walls, latex-based paint is a popular option as it dries quickly, has low VOC emissions, and is easy to clean up with soap and water.For trim and cabinets, a high-quality oil-based or hybrid (water-based with some oil) paint is often recommended for its durability and resistance to chipping, especially in high-traffic areas. we use and recommend Benjamin Moore Advance.For furniture and floors, specialized paints are absolutely necessary for optimal results.2. Sheen levelThe sheen level of paint refers to its level of shine. Common options include flat or matte (no shine), satin (slight shine), semi-gloss (moderate shine), and high-gloss (high shine).Choosing the right sheen level for your project is important as it can impact the perceived color of the paint and the durability of the finish. For example, high-gloss paint may be a great option for a bold accent wall, but may also highlight imperfections in the surface and be more prone to chipping.Satin and semi-gloss are popular choices for walls and trim as they provide a subtle shine and are more resistant to wear and tear.3. QualityAs with most things in life, you get what you pay for when it comes to paint. High-quality paint will often cost more upfront, but can save you time and money in the long run by requiring fewer coats and lasting longer.Look for paint with good coverage (meaning it will take fewer coats to get the desired color), excellent adhesion (it will stick to the surface without peeling or chipping), and high-quality ingredients (which can impact color, durability, and VOC emissions). We ONLY use Benjamin Moore products because they are the best. And trust my words on that because we have tried and tested pretty much everything available!4. Color and finishOf course, one of the most important factors in choosing paint is the color and finish. The right color can transform a room and evoke a specific mood or style.When selecting color, consider the existing decor, lighting, and the mood you want to create. Paint swatches can often look different when applied to large surfaces, so be sure to test a small area before committing to a color.The finish of the paint can also impact the color, so be sure to consider this when selecting the sheen level. For example, a high-gloss finish may make a bold color appear even bolder, while a flat finish may mute the color slightly.In conclusion, choosing the best paint for the job requires considering a variety of factors, including the surface type, sheen level, quality, and color and finish. By taking the time to select the right paint for your project, you can ensure a long-lasting finish that looks professional and meets your needs. Happy painting!