Common Questions About Paint Selection for Interior Walls

We get a lot of questions about paint selection from our customers. When doing a large interior painting project, It’s easy to get overwhelmed when considering what type of paint to use for each room and surface of the home. These are some of the most common questions we get, and some tips and recommendations. If you need help with paint color selection or with an interior painting project start by getting a free color consultation with an estimate. Our service area Northridge or Granada Hills areas of Los Angeles.

Which paint should I choose?

There are 2 main types of paint, oil, and latex.

Latex is usually the best option. Latex has great durability and is easy to clean.

You will want to consider what sheen is best to use. Sheen preferences vary, and some are more common in certain rooms of the home.

Oil-based paints are best used on wood surfaces like trim and molding. Oil-based paints can let the natural texture of the wood show through better than latex will.

Which finish should I select?

In kitchens a high gloss or semi-gloss finish is a great option, spills and splashes will wipe off easily. Common areas of homes often use a satin or matte finish. Talk to your painter about what options they recommend, samples can often be provided.

Semi-gloss is a good option for kitchens or baths since it’s also cleanable without providing as much luster from the walls. The shine will make imperfections and issues on the walls more obvious, so more prep work is in order to hide them.

The most commonly used finish is flat or matte. It doesn’t hold up to big messes very well and will show fingerprints for sure. Eggshell provides the ability to hide some small dings and nicks in the wall. It’s easier to watch and more durable. It’s good for most rooms and is recommended for use in nearly every color and setting.

Which color should I choose?

Color selection can be subjective, but there are trends with paint colors, and checking for popular colors before your project can be a time-worthy investment. Once you have a rough idea, your painter can provide samples, set up test areas on walls, and provide recommendations that will help with color selection.

What Color Should I Paint Ceilings?

Your color choice for a ceiling can create the illusion of a higher or lower roof. If the ceiling is a lighter color than the walls, it can give the illusion it is higher than it actually is and makes smaller rooms feel larger. Tinted ceilings can also offer a unique aesthetic and have subtle but relaxing colors for areas like bedrooms. See our trending paint colors guide for more information on colors.