Important features Interior paint
Paint typically comes in a variety of sheens--flat, low luster, and semigloss. The degree of glossiness can be different from one manufacturer to another. Flat paint, with the dullest finish, is the best at hiding surface imperfections, but it also tends to pick up stains. It's well suited for formal living rooms, dining rooms, and other spaces that don't see heavy use.
A low-luster finish (often called eggshell or satin) has a slight sheen and is good for family rooms, kids' rooms, hallways, and the like. Semi-gloss, shinier still, usually works best on kitchen and bathroom walls and on trim because it's generally easier to clean. Low-luster and semigloss paints look best on smooth, well-prepared surfaces, since the paint's shine can accentuate imperfections on the wall.
Most brands come in several tint bases--the uncolored paint that forms the foundation for the specific color you choose. The tint base largely determines the paint's toughness, resistance to dirt and stains, and ability to withstand scrubbing. The colorant determines how much the paint will fade. Whites and browns tend not to fade; reds and blues fade somewhat; bright greens and yellows tend to fade a lot.
Paint typically comes in a variety of sheens--flat, low luster, and semigloss. The degree of glossiness can be different from one manufacturer to another. Flat paint, with the dullest finish, is the best at hiding surface imperfections, but it also tends to pick up stains. It's well suited for formal living rooms, dining rooms, and other spaces that don't see heavy use.
A low-luster finish (often called eggshell or satin) has a slight sheen and is good for family rooms, kids' rooms, hallways, and the like. Semi-gloss, shinier still, usually works best on kitchen and bathroom walls and on trim because it's generally easier to clean. Low-luster and semigloss paints look best on smooth, well-prepared surfaces, since the paint's shine can accentuate imperfections on the wall.
Most brands come in several tint bases--the uncolored paint that forms the foundation for the specific color you choose. The tint base largely determines the paint's toughness, resistance to dirt and stains, and ability to withstand scrubbing. The colorant determines how much the paint will fade. Whites and browns tend not to fade; reds and blues fade somewhat; bright greens and yellows tend to fade a lot.
