Paint know how

Know your eggshell from your satinwood with our low down on paint jargon

What are the choices?

Emulsion is the most popular choice for walls and ceilings due to the fact it is water-based and has little smell, dries quickly and is easy to apply. It's available in a wide variety of colours and can be applied directly onto wall coverings like lining paper and textured wallpaper.
Where to use:
Emulsion is ideal for all living areas, but avoid using it in kitchens and bathrooms where humidity levels are high.

Kitchen and bathroom emulsion is specifically designed for areas with high humidity and where surfaces need to be scrubbed and washed down.
Where to use:
Kitchens, bathrooms and laundry rooms.

Gloss paint is usually oil-based with resin to give it a hard-wearing quality, however, there are water-based acrylic options now available which are just as durable. Gloss normally requires an undercoat.
Where to use:
Rarely used on walls because it shows imperfections like a mirror does, it's good for internal woodwork like stair banisters and skirting board, which take lots of knocks, and holds up well to cleaning.

Satinwood is a durable gloss paint that gives a more subtle sheen than the traditional shiny gloss paint and doesn't usually require an undercoat.
Where to use:
As with gloss, Satinwood is ideal for interior woodwork in high traffic areas, however it's not as hard-wearing.

Eggshell is available as water or oil-based, and gives a flat, chalky finish. It has great coverage and can also be used on wood and plaster.
Where to use:
The low-sheen finish is a great choice for living room or bedroom walls, particularly if you are after a period look. However, it's not ideal in busy hallways as the delicate finish can mark easily.

Other paints

• Eco paints are eco-friendly and use natural ingredients such as citrus oils, plant extracts and clays, and are available in all types of finishes and colours
• Tile paint has been designed to cover up bathroom or kitchen wall tiles for an instant update
• Floor paint is available for wood, concrete or vinyl floors, and is extra-durable to cope with daily wear and tear
• Radiator paint can be used on central heating pipes and radiators and will stand up to the high temperatures without discolouring

What finish should I choose?

• Matt gives a flat, non-shiny finish and is the best choice for covering up surface imperfections
• Gloss has a very noticeable shine
• Satin paint has a silky, pearl-like sheen. It's ideal for areas that might need to be wiped down
• Silk paint has a high sheen and is good for rooms that have a lot of moisture

Check out our top six paint companies:

Dulux
Crown
Farrow & Ball
The little Greene Paint Company
Earthborn Paints
Eco Paints

Looking for a neutral paint? Check out our guide to the latest shades

Introduce some pattern into your home with the best statement wallpapers

More Living / Dining