Best Interior House Paints for Your Home

To choose the best interior house paints for your home you will need to know the different types of interior paints and their purpose. Choosing the right paint can make all the difference in achieving a professional-looking finish.

With so many different paint brands and types of paint available, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. However, one of the most important factors to consider when choosing paint is durability (this is important for both interior and exterior paints). A high-quality, durable paint will be able to withstand everyday wear and tear, such as scuffs and stains – plus maintain its colour and finish over time. Additionally, ease of application is another key consideration. A paint that is easy to apply will not only save you time and effort, but good paint quality will also result in a smoother, more even finish. By considering factors such as durability, ease of application, and colour selection, you can narrow down your options to find the best interior paint for your needs.

Table of Contents

Choosing Interior House Paints

When it comes to choosing the right paint for your interior walls, there are a few things to consider. Two important factors to keep in mind are the type of paint and the paint sheen.

Types of Paints

There are few common types of paint for interior use: acrylic paint, oil-based paints and water-based paints. Acrylic paints have additives that make them more elastic and clingy, as well as being more durable and resistant to fading and peeling. Interior acrylic paint is also easier to clean and maintain.

While water-based (sometimes called latex paint) wall paint is popular because they tend to dry faster, show a matte finish and have a lower odour. They are also more affordable than acrylic paints.

On the other hand, oil-based paints are more durable and shiny in comparison to its water counterpart, but it also takes longer to dry. Removing oil-based paints from the surface or from paint brushes is also more difficult in comparison, as these paints require harsh chemicals to remove them.

Paint Sheens

The sheen of a paint refers to its level of glossiness or shininess. There are several types of paint sheens to choose from, each with its own advantages and disadvantages.

  • Flat or Matte: Flat paint has no shine and is best used for low-traffic areas like bedrooms and living rooms. It is not as durable as other paint sheens and can be difficult to clean – as a result it is often used as a ceiling paint.
  • Eggshell: This paint has a slight sheen and is a good choice for areas that need to be cleaned regularly, such as kitchens and bathrooms. It is also good for hiding imperfections on walls.
  • Satin: This paint has a soft shine and is often used for areas that require frequent cleaning, such as hallways and children’s rooms. It is more durable than flat or eggshell paint.
  • Semi-Gloss: Semi-gloss paints have a high shine and are ideal for areas that are exposed to moisture, such as kitchens, bathrooms, and laundry rooms. The semi-gloss finish is also good for highlighting architectural details like trim and skirting boards.
  • Gloss: Glossy paint has the highest shine and is best used for furniture, cabinets, and trim. It is the most durable of all the paint sheens and is easy to clean.

When choosing a paint sheen, it’s important to consider the room’s function and the amount of traffic it gets. A higher sheen will be more durable and easier to clean, but it may also highlight imperfections on the walls. On the other hand, a lower sheen will be better at hiding imperfections, but may not be as durable and be more difficult to clean.

house paint colours with paint brush and roller

Factors to Consider When Choosing Paint

When choosing the best interior house paint, there are several factors to consider, such as:

Room Type & Environment

Different rooms in a house have different requirements when it comes to paint. For example, a bathroom or kitchen may require a paint that is resistant to moisture and stains. On the other hand, a bedroom or living room may require a paint that is more durable and easy to clean.

It’s also important to consider the environment in which the room is located. For example, a room that receives a lot of natural light may require a paint that is resistant to fading. A room that is prone to mould or mildew may require a paint that has antifungal properties.

Impact on Lighting

The type of paint used can have a significant impact on the lighting in a room. Lighter colours can make a room feel brighter and more spacious, while darker colours can make a room feel smaller and more intimate.

It’s also important to consider the type of lighting in the room. Natural light can change throughout the day, so it’s important to test paint samples in different lighting conditions. Artificial lighting can also have an impact on the way that paint colours appear.

Colour Scheme

The colour scheme of a room is an important factor to consider when choosing paint. Homeowners should consider the existing colour scheme of the room, including the furniture, flooring, and accessories.

Neutral colours are a popular choice for many homeowners, as they provide a versatile backdrop for a variety of different styles and colour schemes. Bold colours can add a pop of personality to a room, but should be used sparingly.

In summary, when choosing the best interior house paint, homeowners should consider the room type and environment, the impact on lighting, and the colour scheme of the room. By taking these factors into account, homeowners can choose a paint that meets their specific needs and preferences.

Best Interior House Paints for Your Home 1

Paint Durability and Coverage

When it comes to choosing the best interior house paint, durability and coverage are two of the most important factors to consider. A paint that can withstand the test of time and cover a surface in fewer coats will save time, money, and effort.

Durability

Durability refers to a paint’s ability to resist wear and tear, fading, and stains. High-quality paints are formulated with ingredients that make them more resistant to scratches, scuffs, and impacts. They also have better colour retention, which means they won’t fade or yellow over time.

To determine a paint’s durability, look for information on its sheen level, washability, and stain resistance. Paints with higher sheen levels, such as satin or semi-gloss, tend to be more durable than those with lower sheen levels, such as flat or matte. Washable paints are also more durable since they can be cleaned with soap and water without damaging the finish. Stain-resistant paints are another great option for high-traffic areas or homes with kids and pets.

Coverage

Coverage refers to a paint’s ability to cover a surface in fewer coats. A paint with good coverage will save time and money by reducing the number of coats needed to achieve a smooth, even finish. The coverage of a paint is determined by its opacity, which is the degree to which it obscures the surface underneath.

To determine a paint’s coverage, look for information on its spread rate and hiding power. Spread rate refers to the amount of paint needed to cover a certain area, usually measured in square feet per gallon. Hiding power refers to a paint’s ability to cover underlying marks or patterns. Paint with a comparatively low hiding power may need an extra coat to cover walls with a lot of marks or with a darker base colour.

In general, high-quality paints tend to have better coverage than cheaper ones. They are formulated with better quality pigments and resins that help them achieve better hiding power and spread rate. However, it’s important to note that the coverage of a paint can also be affected by factors such as surface porosity, texture, and colour.

Are Eco-Friendly Paint Options As Good As Standard Interior Paint?

Eco-friendly paint options are becoming increasingly popular due to their less negative impact on the environment and the health of the people using them. However, some people may be sceptical about their effectiveness compared to standard interior paint.

When it comes to coverage and durability, eco-friendly paints are just as good as standard interior paint. They come in a wide range of colours and finishes, and can be applied to a variety of surfaces such as walls, ceilings, and woodwork.

One of the main differences between eco-friendly paint and standard interior paint is the absence of harmful chemicals such as volatile organic compounds (VOCs). VOCs are released into the air during and after painting, and can cause a range of health problems such as headaches, dizziness, and respiratory issues. Eco-friendly paint options have lower or zero VOCs, making them safer for both the environment and the people using them.

Another benefit of eco-friendly paint is that it is often made from renewable resources such as plant oils and natural minerals. This means that it is a more sustainable option compared to standard interior paint, which is often made from non-renewable resources such as oil.

Overall, eco-friendly paint options are just as good as standard interior paint in terms of coverage and durability. They also have the added benefit of being safer for the environment and the people using them, as well as being more sustainable.

paint brush and white paint tin cans

Cost Considerations for Interior Paint Work

When considering the cost of interior paint work, there are a few factors to keep in mind. The cost will depend on the size of the room, the type of paint used, and whether you choose to do the work yourself or hire a professional.

DIY vs Professional

One of the biggest cost considerations is whether to do the work yourself or hire a professional. While doing it yourself can save money on labour costs, it may end up costing more in the long run if mistakes are made or the job is not done properly. Hiring a professional may be more expensive upfront, but it can provide peace of mind and ensure that the job is done correctly.

Type of Paint

The type of paint used can also affect the cost. High-quality paints will generally cost more than lower quality ones, but they may last longer and require fewer coats. It is important to consider the durability and finish of the paint when making a decision.

Room Size

The size of the room will also impact the cost. Larger rooms will require more paint and take longer to complete, which can increase labour costs. It is important to accurately measure the room and calculate the amount of paint needed before beginning the job.

Other Factors

Other factors that can impact the cost of interior paint work include the condition of the walls, the need for primer, and the complexity of the job. It is important to consider all of these factors when budgeting for the project. Overall, the cost of interior paint work can vary greatly depending on a number of factors. It is important to carefully consider all of the costs involved and make an informed decision based on your budget and needs.

Key Takeaways

Looking for a Professional House Painter in Newcastle?

A professional paint job can save you the time and hassle that comes with interior house painting – preparing the surface and sourcing quality materials.

Hunter Coast Painting can handle all aspects of your interior paint job. Our team of professional commercial painters, licensed house painters, and industry-driven designers, offer a range of residential painting services in Newcastle and Lake Macquarie. 

Request a free quote today – contact Hunter Coast Painting and talk to an expert.

Share
Author picture

Gavin Kane

Gavin, is the founder and director of Hunter Coast Painting who are experienced Newcastle Painters. Combining 10 years experience in the industry and having worked on multi-million dollar homes in Europe and Australia, Gavin is able to provide a wealth of knowledge and experience.

Gavin Kane
Gavin Kane

Gavin, is the founder and director of Hunter Coast Painting.

Combining 10 years experience in the industry and having worked on multi-million dollar homes in Europe and Australia, Gavin is able to provide a wealth of knowledge and experience.

Share