When renovating your bathroom, a fresh coat of paint can work wonders. Not only does it give your powder room a quick and affordable facelift, but it can also help protect your walls from moisture damage. But with so many paint finishes available, how do you choose the best one for your bathroom walls? This article will explore the various paint finishes available and help you determine which is correct.
Understanding Paint Finishes
Before diving into the best bathroom paint finishes, let’s first take a moment to understand what paint finishes are and how they differ.
Paint finishes, also known as paint sheens, refer to the glossiness or shine that a paint has once it has dried. Several different paint finishes are available, ranging from flat or matte to high-gloss finishes.
Flat or matte finishes have little to no shine and are often used on ceilings or walls with imperfections, as they can help hide flaws. Eggshell finishes have a slight sheen and use in living spaces and bedrooms. Satin or semi-gloss finishes have moderate shine and commonly use in high-traffic areas, such as hallways and kitchens. Finally, high-gloss finishes shine the most and often operate on doors, trim, and furniture.
Best Paint Finish for Bathrooms
Now that we have a basic understanding of paint finishes let’s explore which paint finish is best for bathrooms.
Bathrooms are high-moisture areas, so choosing the right paint finish is crucial. The best paint finish for bathrooms is moisture-resistant, easy to clean, and mildew-resistant.
Satin or semi-gloss finishes are the best options for bathroom walls. These finishes offer a moderate amount of shine, making them easy to clean and giving them a bit of a sheen. They’re also moisture-resistant and mildew-resistant, making them an ideal choice for high-moisture areas like bathrooms.
High-gloss finishes are not recommended for bathroom walls, as they can be too shiny and show every imperfection in the wall surface. Flat or matte finishes are also not recommended, as they’re not moisture-resistant and can be challenging to clean.
When choosing between semi-gloss paint and eggshell paint for your bathroom walls, there are a few factors to consider.
Semi-gloss paint has a higher sheen level than eggshell paint, making it more reflective and shinier. This finish is ideal for bathrooms as it’s moisture-resistant, easy to clean, and mildew-resistant. The high gloss finish of semi-gloss paint makes it more durable and can withstand scrubbing and cleaning better than eggshell paint. This painting makes it an excellent option for high-traffic areas like the bathroom.
Antimicrobial Additives
Another critical factor to consider when choosing the best bathroom paint finish is whether the paint contains antimicrobial additives. These additives can help prevent the growth of mold and mildew, which can be a common problem in bathrooms.
Benjamin Moore is a famous interior paint brand offering several different paint finishes with antimicrobial additives. These finishes are designed for high-moisture areas like bathrooms and kitchens, making them an excellent choice for your bathroom walls.
Choosing the Right Paint Color
Now that you know which paint finish is best for your bathroom walls, it’s time to choose the right paint color. While the options are endless, there are a few things to remember when selecting a color for your bathroom.
First and foremost, consider the size of your bathroom. If you have a small bathroom, lighter colors like pastels and neutrals can make the space more extensive and open. On the other hand, if you have a larger bathroom, you can experiment with darker or bolder colors.
It’s also important to consider the overall style of your bathroom. If you have a modern or minimalist bathroom, you may opt for a clean, simple color like white or gray. You can incorporate classic shades like blue or green if you have a more traditional bathroom.
Finally, consider accent colors in your bathroom, such as tiles or fixtures. You can choose a paint color that complements these elements or use a contrasting color to make a statement.
Applying Your Paint Finish
Once you’ve chosen the right paint finish and color for your bathroom, it’s time to apply the paint. Here are a few tips to ensure a smooth and even application:
- Clean your walls thoroughly before painting to remove any dirt or mildew.
- Use painter’s tape to protect areas you don’t want to paint, such as the edges of your bathroom fixtures.
- Use a high-quality paint brush or roller to ensure an even application.
- Apply at least two coats of paint, allowing each coat to dry thoroughly before applying the next.
- Use high-quality paint with a low VOC (volatile organic compound) content to ensure your bathroom is free of harmful chemicals.
By following these tips, you can achieve a professional-looking paint job lasting for years.