Paints are to home decorating what fresh ingredients are to cooking – powerful and versatile means of creating wonderful effects... if you know how to use them. Paints are available in so many different types and colors that not only paint color but also paint type should be considered when decorating your home. Small, high-gloss areas give definition to decorating elements and make them stand out, while matt, chalky water-based paints emphasize the surface texture of furniture, doors, etc..

The paint industry is constantly introducing new paints with new names and new properties. The large selection can easily become confusing. One important distinction to remember is that paints are either water-based or solvent-based. This influences which paint should be chosen for which surface and which results.

Water-based paints are also commonly called “emulsion paints”. They are environmentally friendly and are relatively easy to use and dry quickly. On the other hand, they are less durable than most solvent-based paints, being rub-proof but not washable. Water-based paints have long been the favorites for painting walls and through constant development and technological progress they are now also well-suited for use on wooden and metal surfaces. One further advantage is that after use, all brushes, rollers, etc. can easily be cleaned with soap and water.

Solvent-based paints, sometimes referred to as lacquers, can be either oil or alkyd based. They dry more slowly than water-based paints but they result in a very hard, smooth, resistant surface, making them more durable and long-lasting. They are commonly found among the high-gloss paints since they result in an excellent finish. On the other hand, when using high-gloss paints, surface imperfections are more noticeable, so they should only be used on clean, smooth surfaces. To clean your brushes after having used a solvent-based paint, you need to use white spirits or turpentine.

Before using paint to give your home a lift or a favorite piece of furniture a new lease on life, you should observe a few important rules and read through our tips. This will save you both time and money and will guarantee that you can enjoy the results of your efforts for a long time.

In order to achieve the best results, here are 4 steps that you should follow when working with paint:

Step 1: Preparing the surface
Step 2: Choosing the right tools
Step 3: Choosing the right paint
Step 4: Considering the conditions