Choosing the Ideal Interior Paint Product & Finish for Your Perth Property

When painting the interior of your Perth property, choosing the correct paint finish is just as important as selecting the right colour.

Painting a Perth property can be a daunting task, especially with Perth’s extreme weather conditions and the various paint finishes available in the market.

With different finishes come different considerations such as gloss level, durability, and suitability for different areas.

In this article, we will provide you with expert advice on how to select the perfect paint type and sheen level for your Perth property.

Part 1. Choosing The Right Type of Paint

When you're ready to give your space a fresh coat of paint, starting with the correct prep coat is crucial to ensure a flawless finish.

1. PREPCOATS

Prep coats, which include primers, sealers, and undercoats, are foundational layers that set the stage for the topcoat, and their importance cannot be overstated—especially when dealing with new surfaces.

Primers

A Primer is the first layer of paint and it does more than just adhere to the surface; it plays several roles.

It blocks out stains and tannins, prevents rust on metal surfaces, smooths out rough textures, and acts as a moisture barrier.

Some primers also include properties that inhibit mould and fungus, making them ideal for areas prone to dampness.

Sealers

Working alongside or instead of a primer, a sealer prevents the topcoat from sinking into the substrate.

It can also form a water-resistant barrier, ensuring that the topcoat remains intact and vibrant.

Oil-based Sealer-Binder is designed especially for bare masonry surfaces such as white-set plaster, to ensure adhesion of the water-based top coats.

Undercoats

Applied after the primer, an undercoat's job is to create a uniform surface by filling in any minor imperfections.

This step is particularly important when you're making a dramatic colour change, like going from a dark to a light hue, as it ensures an even colour for the topcoat.

For those looking for a streamlined process, modern solutions like multi-in-one prep-coat products are a game-changer.

These combine the benefits of primers, sealers, and undercoats into one, saving time and reducing complexity.

Products like Dulux, Wattyl or Taubmans 3 in 1 PSU, suitable for interior surfaces, and work with both water-based and oil-based topcoats.

For more specific needs products like Dulux's PRECISION line includes a Stain & Mould Blocker for areas like kitchens and bathrooms, and a Maximum Adhesion Primer for non-traditional surfaces such as glass or tile.

2. TOPCOATS

The distinction between oil and water-based topcoat paints lies in their solvents—oil-based paints use mineral turpentine, while water-based paints, also known as acrylics, primarily use water.

This affects drying time, finish, and application methods.

While oil-based paints have been traditionally preferred for their durability and a uniform look, water-based paints are gaining popularity due to their environmental friendliness, easier clean-up and non-yellowing finish.

Enamels

The term 'enamel' is often associated with oil-based paints, but it actually refers to the hard, glossy finish that a paint provides, regardless of its base.

Thanks to advances in paint technology, water-based enamels now offer a similar durability without the drawbacks of oil-based options.

Walls

The interior paint you choose should be able to withstand cleaning, especially in high-traffic areas.

Products like Wattyl ID advance and Dulux Wash & Wear are formulated to resist marks and stains.

Specialty topcoats are also available for specific conditions; for example, Dulux Wash & Wear Kitchen & Bathroom is designed for high humidity areas, and Dulux Wash & Wear +PLUS Anti-Bac inhibits bacterial growth.

Doors & Trims

For these areas, you'll want a paint that can handle frequent cleaning and touching.

Traditional oil-based paints are known for their durability and smooth finish.
Water-based options like Wattyl and Dulux’s Aquaenamel and Berger’s Door & Trim are recommended for their ease of use, Low VOC and other environmental benefits.

Ceilings

Ceiling paint is specifically designed to minimize light reflection and cover up imperfections.

Wattyl and Dulux Ceiling flat paint is an excellent choice for a clean, matte finish.

For areas exposed to moisture, like kitchens and bathrooms, specialized paints with Mouldshield protection or a Mould-resistant additive are the best option.

CALCULATING PAINT REQUIREMENTS

Accurately estimating the amount of paint you'll need is essential. Each paint product has a “spread rate”.

That is, how many metres of surface can I paint with one coat using one litre of paint?

Typically the spread rate is included in the information on the paint container.

You can then calculate you’re the surface area to be painted.

Wall Area Perimeter x Height = Wall Area
Ceiling Area Length x Breadth
Trims e.g. Cornices, Door Frames and Skirting Boards Length x Width

After you calculate your surface area it is a simple matter to calculate the amount of paint you require for one coat by applying the spread rate.

As a general rule, two coats of topcoat and one coat of prep coat are standard. However, specifics can vary depending on the paint's spread rate and the surface's characteristics.

Before diving into your painting project, it's always a good practice to consult with paint professionals who can provide tailored advice and insights, ensuring that you get the best results with the right products for your particular project

Part 2. Understanding Paint Sheen Levels

What is Sheen in Paint?

The term 'sheen' in paint refers to the level of glossiness and light reflection it possesses.

The right sheen level for your project depends on various factors, including the specific area being painted and the look you desire.

Importance of Choosing the Right Sheen Level

Selecting the correct sheen level is crucial for both aesthetic and practical reasons.

Different levels of sheen offer varying degrees of durability and can significantly impact the maintenance and appearance of the paint over time. For instance, areas like kitchens, which experience high traffic and wear, benefit from more durable finishes such as a low sheen.

In contrast, surfaces such as front doors and skirtings might be better suited to a gloss finish for easier cleaning and lower marking.

Sheen's Effect on Colour Perception

Beyond durability, the sheen level can influence how a paint colour appears once applied.

High gloss paints, being more reflective, can make colours seem darker than when they are applied in a low sheen or matt finish.

To avoid surprises, it's recommended to test paint samples in your intended environment to ensure satisfaction with both colour and sheen.

Exploring Types of Paint Finishes

Gloss Finish

A gloss finish is characterized by its high reflectivity and is known for being durable and easy to clean. This makes it an excellent choice for family homes.

While it offers greater durability than low sheen paints, it can also make minor surface imperfections more visible, necessitating thorough preparation.

Gloss finishes are particularly suited for doors and architraves and are available in options like Dulux and Wattyl Aquaenamel, which provides a water-based alternative to traditional enamels.

Semi-Gloss Finish

Semi-gloss paints provide a moderately glossy appearance, not as reflective as full gloss finishes.

They offer a satin-like sheen and are versatile enough for use on various interior surfaces, including walls, doors, trims, and cupboards.

This finish is also well-suited for areas of the home that receive a lot of use, such as kitchens and living rooms, thanks to its balance of sheen and durability.

Low Gloss Finish

Low gloss paints are designed to offer a hard-wearing and chip-resistant finish. They are ideal for complementing low sheen or matt wall paints with their subtle gloss.

This type of finish is particularly effective in reducing the visibility of surface imperfections, making it a preferred choice for painting doors, windows, and trims.