How to Choose the Right Paint and Color

Repainting a room is an easy way to breathe some new life into an old room, it can also make your house more appealing to buyers if you are trying to sell your home. However, before you get started there are a few things you should consider about selecting the right paint. 

Paint comes in either latex or oil based. Latex paint is popular choice because it’s easy to clean up and durable Latex is best for your walls or household projects. However, if you are painting real wood moldings or trim pieces than oil based paints are best. Because of its ability to cover up knots and stains, however, it will take longer to dry.

There are also multiple paint sheens. The general rule is the glossier the paint the easier it will be to clean up. High-gloss is a good sheen for rooms like your kitchen because it can be easily  cleaned, however, imperfections will be more apparent with this sheen. High-gloss paint can also give your walls a shiny look which is something to consider. If you are looking for a glossy paint but don’t want the shine Satin is a good alternative. Satin sheen has a smooth finish and easily cleaned. Semi-gloss paint is another option for a living room or bathroom since it has the ability to be cleaned with a damp cloth but it isn’t as shiny. It also tends to be a bit cheaper than high-gloss.

For a wall with a lot of imperfections a flat or matte sheen paint is best. On the plus side you will usually only need one coat. But this sheen cannot be wiped down and will show dirt. The alternative to a flat paint is eggshell. This finish hides imperfections as well but it is easier to wash making it more durable.

Now that you have figured out what paint sheen will be best for your room it is time to decide on colors. If you are looking to sell your house, white or off white colors are the best choice; they will give your rooms a brighter and bigger appearance. Colors near each other on the color wheel will allow one color to stand out more. Colors opposite on the color wheel will complement each other. Multiple shades of the same color will give a room a soothing look, this can be achieved by painting the walls a darker color, a lighter shade for the trim, and then include décor in varying shades that are the same color. Cool colors, (blues, purples, and greens) will make a room appear larger and more airy. Warm colors (reds, yellows, and oranges) will make a room seem more vibrant. If you want a room to have a subtle or soothing look chose light blues, lavenders, pinks and soft yellows. These colors will help create a feeling of tranquility.

Don’t be afraid to use neutral colors, they add a sense of elegance and provide flexibility when decorating. Using blankets, pillow, or decorative items can give splash of colors to a room with white walls. You can also incorporate multiple natural colors in a room by selecting an off white wall color with a beige or gray tone on the trims.