Paints

Latex paints are acrylic paints, commonly used on the exterior of homes in Australia. As water-based house paints, they clean up easily with just soap and water.

Oil-based paints dry slowly but show fewer brush strokes or roller marks and, when dry, form a durable enamel shell.

Aerosol paints are available in multiple finishes and textures and suit many surfaces. Some require a primer for strong adhesion.

These come with added sand or are created by the application method. They’re often neutral, with colour painted on top once dry.

Metal paints are designed to stick to metal and prevent rust, though can be used on other surfaces. They dry quickly, often needing only one coat.

Interior paint is designed to provide a durable, washable, and aesthetically pleasing finish on walls and ceilings within a building, often characterized by low odor and a quick-drying formula.

Exterior paint is formulated to withstand the elements, providing a protective coating that resists weathering, fading, and moisture, while also offering a vibrant, long-lasting finish to a building's facade.

Low-VOC (Volatile Organic Compound) paints have fewer solvents and VOCs and are better for the painter. They dry very quickly so factor that in when painting.

If you paint your walls or a piece of furniture, you want that to last, at least until you’re ready to change the colour again. A better quality product might cost you more in Australia but it will pay off with a superior, more durable finish. You’ll also have a more even coverage done with fewer coats. Cheaper alternatives are often diluted more, with additional solvent and larger pigment particles, resulting in a poorer finish to your project.

For interiors, consider the size and type of room. If it’s a smaller room and you want to add a feeling of space, lighter colours will help. If it’s a bedroom, choose a calming hue. Choose the right paint for each area with the right finish, from the walls to the ceiling and the windowsills. For exteriors, complement colours that are already there and are not easily changed, like the roof.