Interior Paints
There is no single type of paint that is required for indoor paint jobs. But in most situations, a few that carry that label earn it by working much better than exterior paints.
Most paints can be divided into two broad categories: oil-based or alkyds and latex or water-based types. In general, alkyd is used outdoors and latex indoors. But there are many exceptions, which makes selecting the right interior paint all the more interesting.
Latex paint has many advantages for indoor jobs.
Latex is great for a wide variety of indoor surfaces. Plaster or drywall, stucco and other common interior wall and ceiling materials soak it up just fine. It will last for years, providing a glossy, semi-glossy or flat appearance according to choice. Just pick the finish you want and voila!
Latex spreads easily and is very forgiving. Running is less likely and it soaks into many surfaces well. It is no problem to apply evenly and if you have produced a streak a single brush stroke can solve the problem.
It cleans up easy. Once you're done, or just done for the day, you just rinse the brush or roller or sponge out and you're good to go for the next day. Clean up of pans and other items is equally easy.
The results dry quickly. Since it's less expensive than other types of paint, if you're not satisfied with the look or just need another coat, it's easy and cheap to apply another. It also 'breathes', so any moisture trapped will evaporate out of the paint without producing a bubble. Mildew buildup is rarely a problem.
But there are circumstances where other types are called for.
In sunny rooms that get a lot of direct sunshine an oil-based paint will last longer. Oil-based paints also are made with more and deeper pigments. That gives a selection of ultra-bright or rich colors that can be difficult to achieve with latex paints.
Also, trim, doors and other surfaces often look better painted with an alkyd type, even in a room otherwise done with latex. The extra brightness and rich color gives a nice contrast.
Certain surfaces do better with something other than a latex or alkyd paint. Acoustic tile, for example, is carefully manufactured to soak up sound, to prevent sound reflections off the surface. Rooms with a stereo system or TV-theater system can benefit from a ceiling or wall covered with it. But painting acoustic tile with an ordinary oil or even latex paint can substantially interfere with the ability of the tile to perform its intended function.
To get the best results, a special acoustic tile paint is needed. It's more expensive than the other types. But anyone who went to the trouble to optimize their home entertainment area won't mind a little investment. That will make the area look great while keeping the sonic qualities desired.
Certain specialized applications, such as painting masonry can benefit from an equally specialized paint, such as a rubber-based paint. It clings to the surface well and will last longer than latex. It's waterproof, making it ideal for certain applications, such as the basement.
Select the type of interior paint most appropriate for the job and you'll get long-lasting and beautiful results.