Achieving a pro-level interior paint finish requires proper tools, techniques, and paint finishes. The right type of paint finish can make all the difference, whether you prefer a flat, high gloss, or eggshell paint finish. This article offers tips and tricks for achieving a professional finish when painting the interior walls, ceilings, and trim of your home.
Eggshell, Matte, and Semi-Gloss Paint Finishes
Paint finishes can range from flat to high gloss, and each type provides different benefits for your interior surfaces. Eggshell paint finishes fall between flat and semi-gloss finishes, providing a versatile option that can make a room feel more polished while hiding imperfections. If you want to create a soft look for your walls and ceilings in low-traffic areas, you should use matte paint finishes as they have a very little sheen that won’t reflect light and accentuate imperfections. Semi-gloss paint finishes are a good choice for areas with high foot traffic such as kitchens and bathrooms. They are easy to clean and long-lasting.
For achieving professional-grade finishing with such paint types, choosing the appropriate paint and preparing the surface is crucial. Utilize top-notch quality paint and ensure that the surface is tidy, moisture-free, and clear of any dirt or fragments. Fill in any nail holes or cracks with spackle and sand the surface smoothly. Apply the paint using a high-quality brush or roller, making sure to use even strokes to avoid brush strokes and lap marks.
Painting Tips and Tricks
To start your interior painting project, here are some helpful tips and techniques to bear in mind. Proper prep work is essential for achieving a pro-level finish, so make sure to clean the surface thoroughly and fill in any nail holes or cracks. Choose the right type of paint and finish for the room and the amount of traffic it receives. Use a high-quality brush or roller to apply the paint, making sure to use even strokes to avoid brush strokes and lap marks.
When painting large areas such as walls and ceilings, it’s important to work in sections and maintain a wet edge to avoid lap marks. Use the right type of brush or roller for the job, as different surfaces may require different tools. For example, a 3-inch brush is ideal for cutting in around trim and corners, while a 9-inch roller is perfect for large wall areas.
Interior Walls, Ceilings, and Trim
Interior walls, ceilings, and trim provide the foundation of your room, and choosing the right paint finish can make all the difference. For walls and ceilings in low-traffic areas, it’s best to use flat and matte finishes. On the other hand, semi-gloss and high gloss finishes are more appropriate for trim, doors, and cabinets.
To achieve a pro-level finish on your interior surfaces, it’s important to use the right type of paint and prep the surface properly. For best results, select a top-grade paint that suits the surface you intend to paint. Before continuing, ensure that you clean and dry the surface completely, and remove any dirt or dust. Fill in any nail holes or cracks with spackle and sand the surface smoothly. Apply the paint using a high-quality brush or roller, making sure to use even strokes to avoid brush strokes and lap marks.
Prepping the Surface: Porous Surfaces and Chalky Surfaces
Porous surfaces such as drywall and bare wood can be tricky to paint, as they can absorb paint unevenly and result in a blotchy finish. To achieve a pro-level finish on porous surfaces, it’s important to use a high-quality primer before painting. Primer helps seal the surface and provides a smooth, even base for the paint to adhere to.
Chalky surfaces, on the other hand, require a different approach. Chalky surfaces are typically caused by weathering and can make it difficult for paint to adhere properly. To achieve a pro-level finish on chalky surfaces, it’s important to clean the surface thoroughly and remove any chalk or debris. Use a high-quality primer to help the paint adhere properly.
High Gloss Paint Finishes: The Glass-Like Finish
High gloss paint finishes providing a glass-like finish that can make a room feel brighter and more spacious. However, they can also highlight imperfections and require more prep work to achieve a pro-level finish. To achieve a pro-level finish with high gloss paint, it’s important to use the right type of paint and prep the surface properly. To achieve the best results, use high-quality paint and clean and dry the surface thoroughly. To ensure clarity, it is important to clean the surface and remove any dust or debris. Fill in any nail holes or cracks with spackle and sand the surface smoothly.
Apply the paint using a high-quality brush or roller, making sure to use even strokes to avoid brush strokes and lap marks. High gloss finishes also require more coats than other finishes, so be prepared to apply multiple coats for a smooth, even surface.
Choosing the Right Paint for Your Space
The extensive variety of paint types and finishes can make it challenging to select the most suitable one for your area. For areas with low foot traffic, it’s recommended to use flat or matte finishes on walls and ceilings. Doors, trim, and cabinets, on the other hand, should have semi-gloss or high-gloss finishes. Keep in mind that there are exceptions and the best paint and finish for your space depends on your preferences and how much traffic your space gets.
To create the desired style and atmosphere in your room, it’s important to consider the paint color you choose. Lighter shades can create a sense of openness and spaciousness, while darker ones can give a warm and intimate feel. Consider the existing decor and furniture in your space when choosing a paint color, and take into account how the color will look in different lighting conditions.
Industry Terms to Learn:
Flat Paint
A type of paint finish that has no shine or sheen, resulting in a smooth, non-reflective surface.
Matte Finish Paint
A type of paint finish with a very low level of gloss, resulting in a subtle and slightly shiny surface.
High Gloss Paints
A type of paint finish with a very high level of gloss, resulting in a glass-like and highly reflective surface.
Chalky Surface
A type of surface caused by weathering, resulting in a rough and powdery texture.
Extremely Durable
This message is about a type of paint or coating that is strong enough to resist scratches, dents, and other types of damage.
Reflect Light
Describes a type of paint or finish that reflects light and enhances the brightness of a room.
Oil Based Paint
Oil-based paint is a kind of paint that utilizes oil-based solvents to make a strong and durable finish.
Water Based Paint
This is a type of paint that utilizes pigments that are water-based. Therefore, it produces a quick-drying finish with minimal odor.
Conclusion
Achieving a pro-level interior paint finish requires the right tools, techniques, and paint finishes. For a smooth and even space, follow these tips: choose the right paint type and finish, properly prepare the surface, and use the appropriate technique. You can use these tips and tricks to achieve a long-lasting, professional-looking paint finish, no matter if you like flat, eggshell, or high-gloss finishes.
References
https://www.thespruce.com/choosing-the-right-interior-paint-finish-1977100
https://www.thisoldhouse.com/painting/21015841/prep-for-success-tips-for-a-pro-level-paint-finish
https://www.thisoldhouse.com/painting/21015841/prep-for-success-tips-for-a-pro-level-paint-finish