Which Paint Is Ideal For Interior Trim?

The top 8 best paints for trim and baseboards are formulated specifically for use on trim, such as windows, doors, and baseboards. It is essential to choose the right paint sheen and finish for your project, whether you choose classic white, a matching color to the walls or floor, a subtle change in shade, or a bold contrast. Choose the best paint finish for different surfaces and needs, from flat to high gloss, and avoid shiny finishes that expose.

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 durable paint type for trim and baseboards is an acrylic enamel or oil-based paint. Acrylic latex paint can be a great choice for interior trim, but it won’t match the toughness of oil-based paint.

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. Sherwin Williams Emerald Urethane Trim Paint is recommended as it is a mix of oil and latex paint that creates the best paint for trim and baseboards. Semi-gloss paint is the most popular paint finish for trim, sharing many high-gloss qualities but striking a better balance between appearance and durability.

In summary, choosing the right paint for trim and baseboards is crucial for maintaining the aesthetic appeal of your home. Consider the pros and cons of oil-based and water-based paints, as well as the benefits and costs associated with each type of paint.

Do I need to prime trim before painting?

To paint a trim, use a high-quality primer, even if it hasn’t been painted before. The paint and primer in one options are great for walls, but a dedicated primer is recommended for trims that will see significant wear and tear. If the trim already has paint, a separate coat of primer is only needed in certain circumstances, such as when changing color dramatically, using latex paint over oil-based paint, or if the existing paint is in bad shape. To test the paint, soak a cotton ball with rubbing alcohol and test the existing paint with a cotton ball.

If the existing paint is in bad shape, scrape away any loose paint, fill holes with wood filler and sand, and priming before priming. Glidden’s Premium Interior Paint Primer is recommended for this purpose.

Is acrylic paint good for interior trim?

The composition of a paint product determines its consistency, adhesive properties, longevity, fumes, dry time, cleanability, and more. Two types of paint are optimized for painting interior doors and trim: alkyd/oil-based and acrylic latex/enamel. Oil-based paints offer a smooth finish with virtually zero brush marks due to their thick consistency, but they have longer dry times and increased emissions. Acrylic paints are water-based, reducing fumes and odors but drying faster but resulting in more noticeable brush marks and a brittle surface.

Four finishes to choose from for interior trim and doors include matte (matte) and high gloss (high gloss). Glossier paints are tougher and easier to clean than flatter paints, and since interior trim and doors are likely to be used over time, hardier (and therefore shinier) paint finishes are recommended. The four home interior painting finishes to consider for trim and similar features are:

1. Matte: This paint is flat and easy to clean, while satin paint is smooth and glossy.

Is trim paint acrylic or latex?

Acrylic paints are commonly found in the paint aisle, with prices and performance varying significantly. Some can be as low as $15, but they are not as durable as 100% acrylic paints. Acrylic latex paint is suitable for interior trim but doesn’t match the toughness of oil-based paint. Acrylic-alkyd hybrid paints, which have all the benefits of oil-based paint but are easier to clean and resistant to yellowing, are still relatively unknown to homeowners. Most brands now offer versions of these paints. It’s advisable to inquire about discounts offered by specialty paint stores, as they may run unadvertised sales or offer discounts.

Should trim be satin or semi-gloss?

Trims, such as baseboards, mouldings, window frames, doors, and cabinets, require a durable paint finish due to frequent contact with bicycle tires, stroller wheels, and makeup-streaked hands. Semi-gloss paint is a great choice for these areas, as it is more durable and easier to clean. However, it also reveals more imperfections, making them stand out.

There is a standard sheen level range for paint finishes, with traditional semi-gloss paint ranging between 35-70. Clare’s Trim Paint, in the 40-50 range, offers a more subtle sheen, known as Subtle Semi-Gloss. This radiant sheen is perfect for high-touch surfaces and stands up to the toughest wear and tear.

Ceilings should be the first surface to be painted, as they can quickly transform the ambience of a space. A flat white paint finish is the best choice for ceilings, as it reduces glare from artificial lights and helps reflect natural light, making the room feel brighter and more open. Our Ceiling Paint offers the perfect flat white finish for ceilings, providing even coverage with minimal splatter and high hiding power to conceal surface imperfections and get the job done in fewer coats.

What paint finish do designers use on trim?

Designer-approved guidelines offer two paint finishes for everyday spaces: eggshell finish, suitable for bedrooms, bathrooms, living rooms, and kitchens, and semi-gloss finish, ideal for trims, cabinets, and doors in highly trafficked areas like mudrooms. Eggshell finish is more forgiving, durable, and easy to clean, while semi-gloss finish offers maximum durability, stain and scuff resistance, and is easier to clean. To choose the right paint color, refer to The 1 Secret to Choosing a Paint Color.

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.

What is the best white paint for interior trim?

Benjamin Moore White Dove is a popular white color for trim and interior painting, providing a timeless look and updated feel. It adds depth to walls without being overwhelming or too stark, making it suitable for a bright and airy atmosphere or neutral yet not boring. Benjamin Moore Decorators White is a favorite among interior designers and homeowners due to its versatility, pairing perfectly with other colors in decorating schemes. It can be used to give a small space an airy feel or make a bold statement. It also looks great as trim on walls and doors for added dimension and interest.

Sherwin Williams Snowbound is a beautiful, classic white color that works well as a trim color, bringing out the best features of your home. Its subtle gray undertone makes it perfect for creating an elegant atmosphere without being too bright and overwhelming. With its versatility and sophisticated charm, Sherwin Williams Snowbound is the ideal choice for any interior painting project.

Is there a difference between paint and trim paint?

Trim paint is typically semi-gloss, with a slightly less intense shine than gloss or high-gloss paint. This is due to its ease of cleaning, which is beneficial for baseboards and window trim, and its ability to highlight decorative touches like angles, curves, and lines. Although it may not conceal imperfections, it strikes a balance between flatter paints and high-gloss paint’s light-reflecting qualities.

Semi-gloss is the most commonly used paint finish for trim, but you can choose from gloss, high-gloss, or satin if you prefer. Trim paint is also known for its sag resistance, as it is generally thicker than regular wall paint to prevent uneven or blotchy finishes due to gravity’s pull.

Should white trim be satin or semi-gloss?

Semi-gloss finish is more durable and easier to clean, making it ideal for frequent wipe-downs on frequently used trims like window trims. It is also better for wood trims, as it is easier to clean with damp cloths or special sprays. Unlike satin finish, which is commonly used for interior walls and furniture, semi-gloss is ideal for window trims and kitchen cabinets. The cost of semi-gloss is slightly higher than satin finish due to the higher gloss offered by the paint. Despite its superior durability, semi-gloss finish is slightly more expensive than satin finish due to the higher gloss offered.

What do professionals use to paint trim?

The most durable paint for trim and baseboards is acrylic enamel or oil-based paint. Oil-based paints are smelly and hard to work with, while acrylic enamels like Insl-x are more expensive but harder to clean and durable. Insl-x Cabinet Coat has been a reliable choice for its ability to harden to a nice finish, resisting chipping, scuffing, food stains, grease, and water. It is available in a wide range of colors and two sheens, and has excellent flow and self-leveling properties. It can be dry to touch in 1 hour and can be recoat in 6 hours.

Should white trim be lighter or darker than walls?

White or off-white paint is ideal for classic or traditional interiors, as it can highlight the historical or intricate qualities of the trim. White trim lightens and brightens the room, making the wall color “pop”. Pure white, also known as cool or blue white, is ideal for rooms with great natural light and pairs well with cool-toned walls. In northern climates or rooms with limited natural light, creamy whites with warm undertones are recommended.

A trend has grown in selecting dark colors for trim, even black, as it gives a room more depth and effectively frames views when used on window casings. Dark trim contrasts well with some of today’s trendiest room colors, such as soft aquas, powder blues, greens, and grays. Dark trim doesn’t have to be just dark brown or black; consider selecting a color several shades deeper than the wall color.

In addition to wall color, trim can affect the size, shape, appearance, and mood of a room. Homes built in the late 19th century and earlier typically featured intricate woodwork stained or varnished in colors ranging from mahogany to honey.