What Kind of Interior Paint Is Durable and Washable?

Thinking about an interior painting project? It's definitely time to consider colors and styles, but you also need to consider paint finishes . Especially if kids or pets are involved, you need a paint product that is easy to touch up and can withstand bumps and scratches. And, of course, look incredible.

Today, let's take a look at a few of your traditional paint sheen options and see which is the best fit for your home.

When it comes to interior paint and paint brands, you really do get what you pay for. There is certainly a wide variety of cheap products readily available, but high-quality paint is worth the investment, delivering better color retention, excellent coverage, and a more durable finish.

If we drill down deeper, we find even a whole lot of options:

• Flat paint
• Eggshell finish
• Satin finish
• Matte paint
• Glossy finish
• Semi-gloss paint

The old rule of thumb was that the higher the sheen (glossier) the paint, the more durable and washable it was. That meant that flat paint was best left for low-traffic surfaces like ceilings, while higher-gloss paint was recommended for cabinets, trim, etc.

But what happens if you don't LIKE the way shiny, hard paint finishes look? Are you stuck?

Paint manufacturers stepped up their game as the EPA's standards for safety changed. If you choose a high-quality paint, today's flat and matte sheens are just as durable and washable as glossier paint.

This means you get all the benefits of lower-sheen paints, but with the strength you need for a busy household. Plus, flat and matte paint is super stylish right now. Good news all around!

We recommend chatting with your local painting expert, and ask what kind of paint they recommend and why (brand and sheen). Or, if you're taking on a DIY paint project, make SURE to invest in really good quality paint, not just a big box store bargain.

Have any other questions? Contact us at Chism Brothers Painting!