For Interior Trim, What Kind Of Paint Would I Use?

Interior trims require different paint types than interior walls, and selecting the right paint depends on several factors. Wooden baseboards and metal door trims need different types of paint, and the amount of wear they are expected to endure. Whether you choose to paint the trim in classic white, a matching color to the walls or floor, a subtle change in shade, or a bold contrast, it is essential to choose the right paint sheen and finish.

Trim paint is usually either oil-based or latex-enamel paint for high-impact trim surfaces. Oil-based paints are the gold standard for trim and baseboards due to their durability, smooth finish, and resistance to wear. Water-based paints, especially acrylic-alkyd hybrids, are suitable for use in tight areas like corners and curved profiles.

To paint your trim like an expert, you will need caulk, a sanding block, painters tape, a sponge, Benjamin Moore Fresh Start® primer, and Benjamin Moore ADVANCE interior paint. Two types of paint are optimized for painting interior doors and trim: alkyd/oil-based and acrylic latex/enamel. Oil-based paints have been a staple for trim painting for several decades.

The most common and best sheen for interior trim is a satin or semi-gloss finish. Satin paint finishes have a medium sheen, are durable and easy to clean. The most durable paint type for trim and baseboards is an acrylic enamel or oil-based paint. Oil-based paints are smelly and hard, but they are formulated specifically for use on trim.

Some popular trim paints include Behr Scuff Defense, BM Satin Impervo oil, Sherwin Williams Emerald Urethane Trim Enamel, and Sherwin Williams Emerald Urethane Enamel. Semi-gloss paint is the most popular paint finish for trim, offering a balance between appearance and durability.

What looks better semi gloss or satin?

To choose a semi-gloss finish for a room, consider its purpose, aesthetic preferences, maintenance, and lighting. High-traffic areas or moisture-prone areas like kitchens and bathrooms are better suited for semi-gloss finishes. Satin offers a softer, elegant look, while semi-gloss provides a lustrous, reflective appearance. Semi-gloss is practical for easy cleaning and maintenance, especially for surfaces prone to spills or splatters.

Can I paint satin over semigloss trim?

Satin paint is a popular choice for homeowners seeking a paint finish that is resistant to moisture and grease, while still giving off a lustrous appearance. It is the “happy medium” between flat and glossy paints, offering resistance against moisture and grease, making it easier to clean. Satin paints also better hide surface flaws, making them suitable for various spaces such as kitchens, bathrooms, laundry rooms, children’s rooms, entryways, and garages.

They are also easier to maintain and clean than semi-gloss and glossy paints. Overall, satin paints offer numerous advantages over other paint finishes, making them a popular choice for homeowners seeking a luxurious and durable paint finish.

What material is best for interior trim?

Solid hardwood is a durable and strong option for interior trim due to its dent-resistant properties. However, it can be expensive and susceptible to shrinkage and moisture damage. Finger-jointed pine, a softwood timber material, is made by joining small pieces of wood with glue and creating interlocking “fingers” to create a stronger product. Finger-jointed pine is less expensive, easily available in primed form, and easy to install. It is also resistant to moisture, splitting, twisting, and warping.

How do you paint interior trim like a pro?

To achieve a smooth trim finish, use a high-quality sash brush or foam roller, apply paint in long, even strokes, avoid overloading, and sand between coats. For durability, consider using water-based enamel paint. For smooth wall painting, follow these strategies:

1. Cutting in: Paint along edges where walls meet ceilings, windows, or door frames with a steady hand and the right technique. Load your brush halfway into the paint, tap off excess, and work your way in, using light pressure for precise control.

Is trim paint different from wall paint?

Trim paint is a durable and high-sheen option for interior walls, enhancing the appearance of your home’s interior. It is available in various colors and finishes, making it an ideal complement for your walls and design aesthetic. Trim paint highlights architectural details like baseboards, door frames, crown molding, and chair rails, adding depth and character to your space. When selecting paint for trim, consider factors such as sheens like flat, eggshell, satin, semi-gloss, and high-gloss.

Higher sheen paints are more durable and easier to clean, making them ideal for trim. Satin and semi-gloss finishes are popular choices for trim paint, providing a subtle shine that highlights architectural details without being overly reflective.

What kind of paint do you use for interior trim?

The paint sheen used for interior trim affects the level of light reflected off the finish. The most common and best sheen is a satin or semi-gloss finish. Satin paints have a medium sheen and are durable and easy to clean, while semi-gloss paints have a higher sheen and stand out in a room. If you prefer a lower sheen or want to paint walls and trim the same color and sheen, use a satin paint finish. This is especially recommended for areas with imperfections in drywall. A full skim coat or “Level 5” finish can be done, but it can be expensive and not suitable for most applications.

What is the best paint for house trim?

Latex paint is a popular choice for exterior wood trim due to its ease of use, rapid drying time, and resistance to fading or yellowing. Oil-based paint is more durable, but it may chip or crack over time, is difficult to work with, and has a strong odor. Alkyd paint is analogous to oil-based paint in that it is more straightforward to utilise and has a less pronounced odour.

What paint to use on interior car trim?

ColorBond LVP is a flexible paint designed to bond to leather, vinyl, and plastic, providing a brand-new appearance to car interior parts. It is user-friendly and can be applied in a few light coats, with a two-minute wait between coats. The paint bonds after 10 minutes of dry time. ColorBond specializes in offering OEM correct interior colors.

Proper preparation is crucial when painting a car interior. Clean off the surface with a favorite spray cleaner, mask off unwanted areas, and start spraying. The result is only as good as the preparation and using the right cleaner. Customers can confidently say yes to painting the interior of a car, but it is essential to use the right cleaner and prepare thoroughly.

Should house trim be flat or satin?

For low-traffic areas like bedrooms, opt for flat or eggshell finishes for elegance and minimal shine. For high-traffic areas like hallways or kitchens, satin or semi-gloss paints are ideal due to their durability and ease of cleaning. Flat paint is suitable for bedrooms, living rooms, and dining rooms, while eggshell paint offers a subtle sheen. Satin paint is better suited for children’s rooms, hallways, and kitchens, and semi-gloss is the most durable option due to its moisture resistance and easy-to-clean nature.

When choosing paint’s sheen level, consider room type, traffic levels, and surface imperfections. Lower-sheen paints hide blemishes better, while higher-sheens highlight them. Proper preparation, including sanding uneven surfaces, is crucial for a smooth, drip-free coat. Quality materials and tools are essential for a smooth finish.

Is interior trim satin or semi-gloss?

In comparison to satin, semi-gloss is a superior option for wood trims and window trims, yet less suitable for interior walls and furniture. The higher gloss offered by semi-gloss paint provides a more natural appearance, though it is slightly more expensive than satin due to the enhanced level of protection and durability it offers. This is due to the fact that the paint provides superior protection and durability, thereby offering a more cost-effective solution for homeowners.