Paint Selection Guide for Your Home Improvement or Remodelling Project

Posted on: 4 January 2021

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When it comes to updating the look of your house, a fresh layer of paint can make a world of difference. But before you can begin repainting the house, it is important to keep in mind that not all paints are created equal and that picking the perfect one for your space is crucial.

There are lots of things to consider when selecting paint for a home improvement or renovation project. Here are a few you should factor in to ensure you choose the best paint for your home.

Where are you painting?

Paints are available in a wide variety of formulations but they all fall into two main categories based on where they are used — interior paints and exterior paints.

Interior paints are used on the interior surfaces of a house while exterior paints are used on the outside of the building. Exterior paints are generally more water-resistant and durable than the former type of paint because they are directly exposed to the weather. Interior paints, on the other hand, can be made to resist staining and clean easily for aesthetics and decoration purposes. 

It is important to choose the right paint for the areas of the home you're painting. Don't use interior paints on exterior surfaces of your home and vice versa. Also, choose your paint based on the kind of surface you will be painting. For example, there are exterior paint options for masonry, wood, and metal. Match your paint to the material you intend to paint.

How long do you want your paint job to last?

While there are different types of paint for different surfaces, there can be staggering variations in the durability of products that fall within each of the two general categories of paints. For example, exterior paints can either be oil-based or latex-based (non-oil-based paints). Whichever type of exterior paint you choose, the highest-priced products tend to be more durable and in the long run deliver much better value.

What look are you going for?

Paint products come in a wide selection of colours, so you can find something that can create the look you want for your home. When choosing exterior paint, consider the architectural style of your home. When picking interior paint, let your home's interior design goals guide your choice. The goal is to choose a paint colour or a combination of paint colours that will make your home look exactly how you envision it.

Contact a residential painter near you to discuss your house paint job.