So what paint do decorators use?

A common question among homeowners is: “What paint do decorators use?” Professional decorators use high-quality paints tailored to the specific needs of each project, ensuring durability, finish, and ease of application. In this blog, we’ll explore the types of paints professional decorators prefer, the brands they trust, and how they choose the right paint for different surfaces.

Why Do Professional Decorators Choose Certain Paints?

Professional decorators don’t just pick any paint off the shelf. Their choice of paint depends on several factors, including the surface being painted, the desired finish, and the durability requirements. Here are a few reasons why decorators select specific paints:

• Durability: Professionals choose paints that will last, resist wear and tear, and hold up against cleaning and scrubbing.
• Coverage: High-quality paints provide better coverage, meaning fewer coats are needed, which saves time and effort.
• Finish: The sheen and texture of the paint can significantly impact the final look of a room. Decorators consider whether a matte, satin, or gloss finish is best for the job.
• Ease of Application: Paint that goes on smoothly and dries evenly allows decorators to work more efficiently and produce a flawless finish.

Types of Paints Commonly Used by Decorators

Here are the main types of paint that decorators use, depending on the specific needs of the project:

1. Emulsion Paint
Emulsion is one of the most popular paints for interior walls and ceilings. It is water-based, dries quickly, and has low levels of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), making it safer for indoor use. Decorators often use emulsion for walls because it provides excellent coverage, is easy to clean, and comes in a variety of finishes.

• Popular Finishes: Matt, silk, and eggshell.
• Best For: Interior walls and ceilings.

2. Satin and Semi-Gloss Paint
For woodwork, trim, doors, and cabinets, decorators often use satin or semi-gloss paints. These paints are more durable and easy to wipe clean, making them ideal for high-traffic areas and surfaces that are touched often. Satin has a softer sheen, while semi-gloss offers more shine and is more resistant to moisture.

• Best For: Woodwork, doors, skirting boards, and kitchens/bathrooms.

3. Gloss Paint
Gloss paint is a high-shine, durable paint often used for wood and metal surfaces. It’s resistant to scuffs and marks, making it ideal for areas that need extra protection. However, gloss can highlight imperfections, so decorators ensure surfaces are well-prepped before applying this type of paint.

• Best For: Doors, trim, and metal surfaces like radiators.

4. Exterior Paints
For outdoor projects, professional decorators use specialist exterior paints that are formulated to withstand harsh weather conditions, such as rain, UV rays, and temperature fluctuations. These paints are often more robust and long-lasting than interior paints and come in a variety of finishes, from matte to high-gloss.

• Best For: External walls, fences, doors, and window frames.

Popular Paint Brands Used by Professional Decorators

Professional decorators tend to rely on well-known, trusted brands that provide consistent quality and performance. Here are some of the brands decorators often choose:

1. Dulux
Dulux is a popular choice among decorators due to its wide range of colours, finishes, and reliable quality. Their Dulux Trade range is specifically designed for professional use, offering superior coverage and durability compared to standard consumer paints.

• Best For: Interior and exterior walls, woodwork, and ceilings.

2. Farrow & Ball
Known for its luxury finishes and unique colour palette, Farrow & Ball is often chosen for high-end decorating projects. Their paints are eco-friendly, with low VOCs, and provide a rich, deep colour. However, they tend to be more expensive than other brands.

• Best For: Interior feature walls, period homes, and high-end projects.

3. Crown Trade
Crown Trade is another popular brand for decorators, offering high-performance paints for both interior and exterior projects. Their paints provide good coverage and durability, making them ideal for professional jobs that require longevity.

• Best For: High-traffic areas, kitchens, bathrooms, and commercial spaces.

4. Johnstone’s Trade
Johnstone’s Trade paints are widely used by professionals for their excellent coverage, durability, and cost-effectiveness. They offer a range of finishes, including matt, silk, satin, and gloss, making them versatile for different types of projects.

• Best For: Interior walls, ceilings, woodwork, and exterior projects.

How Do Decorators Choose the Right Paint for a Job?

The decision on what paint to use isn’t random—professional decorators consider several factors before selecting the paint for a specific job. Here’s what they look at:

1. The Type of Surface
The surface being painted is one of the most important factors in choosing the right paint. For example, decorators will use emulsion for interior walls but opt for gloss or satin for woodwork and trim. On rough exterior surfaces like brick or stucco, exterior paint is a must.

2. The Finish Desired
The finish of the paint impacts both the look and durability of the surface. For a soft, non-reflective look, decorators might choose matt paint, while areas that need more durability and a shinier appearance, like doors and skirting boards, might require satin or gloss.

• Matt Finish: Great for hiding imperfections on walls, but harder to clean.
• Satin/Silk Finish: Slightly shiny, easy to clean, and more durable.
• Gloss Finish: Very shiny and durable but shows imperfections.

3. The Room’s Use
Different rooms in a house require different types of paint. Kitchens and bathrooms, for instance, require moisture-resistant and washable paints, while living rooms or bedrooms might need softer, more decorative finishes.

• Kitchens/Bathrooms: Decorators often use washable satin or semi-gloss paint to withstand moisture and grease.
• Living Rooms/Bedrooms: Matt or eggshell paints create a soft, elegant finish for more relaxed spaces.

4. Longevity and Durability
For high-traffic areas or surfaces that need regular cleaning, decorators will use paints with added durability, such as scrubbable emulsions or tough, washable paints. For exterior surfaces, they will select weather-resistant paints designed to last in outdoor conditions.

Conclusion

So, what paint do decorators use? The answer depends on the project. Professional decorators select paints based on the surface, desired finish, and durability requirements. From trusted brands like Dulux, Crown Trade, and Farrow & Ball, to selecting the right type of paint for each surface, decorators ensure the job is done with high-quality materials that deliver long-lasting results.

If you’re looking for expert advice on choosing the right paint or need professional decorating services, A-Z Decorators is here to help. Our experienced team can recommend the best products for your project and deliver a flawless finish. Contact us today to learn more about how we can assist with your next painting and decorating job.

For more decorating tips, explore our blog on how to find a painter and decorator and read about can a woman be a painter and decorator