Pick the right paint

It's time to spruce up your paintwork, but which one's right for the job? Here's a definitive guide.

Walls and ceilings

Matt and flat matt emulsion Choose this where you want a non-reflective finish. 'Flat' finishes are extra matt.

Silk emulsion This is the one to pick if you're after a slight sheen. It wipes clean easily.

One-coat emulsion This is a thick paint that contains extra pigment for good coverage, so you shouldn't need an extra coat.

Kitchen and bathroom This has a special formula that's moisture and stain-resistant. It also stops mould growth.

Natural emulsions, distempers and limewashes These have chalky finishes and a soft effect, and don't contain Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs), which can cause irritation.

Glazes, metallics and suedes These paints are designed to give a textured or reflective look.

Tough-finish paints These stain-resistant water-based paints are designed to be crubbed or washed. They are multi-surface, for use on walls, woodwork or metal.


Woodwork and metal

Gloss Gloss is oil-based and durable with a good shine, but it's quite slow to dry. It resists moisture.

Eggshell or satin Standard eggshell is oil-based and resists moisture. It has a low sheen for a more subtle effect than gloss.

Fast-drying gloss, satin or eggshell Water-based paints dry much faster than oil-based versions. They're low in odour and in VOCs.

Linseed oil paint Linseed oil paint is a natural, oil-based gloss that doesn't contain VOCs.

See our guide to the essential decorating kit

More Decorating