Choosing the right paint for your project isn’t just about picking the perfect color. With so many types of paint and finishes available, it’s important to understand how each option works and where it performs best. Whether you're refreshing a living room, updating your kitchen cabinets, or painting a bathroom, knowing the different types of paint and types of paint finishes can make a huge difference in how your project looks and lasts.
Let’s walk through the basics of paint types, explore the most common finishes, and help you choose what’s right for your space.
Water-Based vs. Oil-Based Paints
The first big distinction in the world of paint is between water-based and oil-based paints.
Water-Based Paint
Also known as latex paint, water-based paint is the most common option for home projects. It dries quickly, emits fewer fumes, and is easier to clean up with just soap and water. It’s also more environmentally friendly than oil-based paint and holds up well in most indoor settings.
Best for: Walls, ceilings, and trim in low- to moderate-traffic areas.
Oil-Based Paint
Oil-based paint is more durable and gives a smoother, glossier finish than water-based paint. However, it takes longer to dry, emits strong odors, and requires mineral spirits for cleanup. Because of its durability, it’s often used in high-traffic or high-moisture areas.
Best for: Doors, cabinets, baseboards, and areas with heavy use or moisture.
Specialty Paint Types
Beyond water- and oil-based formulas, there are several types of paint designed for specific surfaces and effects.
Acrylic Paint
Acrylic is a type of water-based paint that contains acrylic resins. It’s more durable than standard latex paint and resists fading and cracking. Acrylic is commonly used for both interior and exterior surfaces.
Best for: Exterior walls, furniture, and art projects.
Enamel Paint
Enamel paint is known for its hard, glossy finish. While traditionally oil-based, some water-based versions are now available. Enamel is especially good at resisting wear and tear.
Best for: Kitchens, bathrooms, appliances, and metal surfaces.
Chalk Paint
This ultra-matte, velvety paint has gained popularity for DIY projects and vintage-inspired makeovers. It adheres well to most surfaces without priming and gives furniture a soft, distressed look.
Best for: Furniture, cabinetry, decorative items.
Milk Paint
Made from milk protein, lime, and pigment, milk paint is an eco-friendly, non-toxic option. It gives a rustic, old-world feel and can be used with or without a bonding agent depending on the desired texture.
Best for: Antique furniture, vintage projects, and environmentally conscious renovations.
Primer
Though not technically a paint, primer is essential for ensuring good adhesion and coverage. It prepares the surface and can block stains or prevent peeling.
Best for: Any surface before painting, especially raw wood, metal, or previously stained areas.
Understanding Different Types of Paint Finishes
Once you've selected the paint type, the next step is choosing a paint finish—also known as paint sheen. The types of paint finishes affect the final look of your surface and how well it resists moisture, scuffs, and stains.
Here’s a breakdown of the most common types of paint finish:
Flat or Matte Finish
A flat finish offers a non-reflective, velvety texture that hides imperfections well. However, it's not very durable and can be hard to clean.
Best for: Ceilings and low-traffic walls like adult bedrooms or formal dining rooms.
Eggshell Finish
This low-luster finish has a soft glow, similar to the surface of an eggshell. It offers better durability than flat paint while still hiding minor surface flaws.
Best for: Living rooms, hallways, and family rooms.
Satin Finish
Satin strikes a balance between durability and subtle shine. It’s easier to clean than eggshell and resists moisture, making it ideal for busier areas.
Best for: Kitchens, bathrooms, laundry rooms, and children’s bedrooms.
Semi-Gloss Finish
Semi-gloss has a noticeable shine and is highly resistant to moisture and stains. It reflects more light, so it's great for brightening up areas, but it can also show imperfections.
Best for: Trim, doors, cabinets, and bathrooms.
Gloss or High-Gloss Finish
The most reflective option, gloss paint is extremely durable and washable. However, because it highlights every bump and crack, it requires a well-prepped surface.
Best for: Furniture, doors, accent pieces, and trim.
Final Thoughts
With so many types of paint and types of paint finishes to choose from, painting can feel overwhelming at first. But once you understand the basic categories—like water-based vs. oil-based, or matte vs. glossy—it becomes easier to select the right paint for your project.
Take into account the surface you're painting, how much traffic the area gets, and the look you're going for. Whether you need a durable finish for a busy kitchen or a soft matte look for a cozy bedroom, there’s a perfect combination waiting for you.
And once the job is done, don’t forget to store your leftover paint properly. Seal the lid tightly and use paint can clips to keep the lid secure, prevent spills, and make future touch-ups easier. A little organization goes a long way in protecting your investment.