Best Paint Finishes for High Traffic Areas
The pointers ahead will explore the characteristics and benefits of various paint finishes, helping you make an informed decision when it comes to painting your high traffic areas.
High Gloss Finish
High gloss paint is known for its shiny, reflective surface that provides a modern, sleek look. It is ideal for high traffic areas such as doors, trim, and cabinetry, as its hard, smooth surface is easy to clean and can withstand frequent washing and scrubbing.
Semi Gloss Finish
Semi gloss paint has a subtle shine that provides a more durable, wipeable surface than flat or eggshell finishes. It is more resistant to scratches and scuffs than high gloss paint, and is also more forgiving of imperfections in the surface, such as small dents or bumps.
Eggshell
Eggshell paint has a low to medium sheen, similar to the texture of an eggshell. It is a versatile finish that can be used in many different rooms of a home, including high traffic areas such as hallways and living rooms. The low sheen of eggshell paint makes it a good choice for walls that need to be durable but also have a softer look. The slight sheen of the finish makes it easier to clean than flat paint and helps to hide imperfections in the wall.
Scuff Resistant Paint
Scuff resistant paint is specifically formulated to withstand daily wear and tear, is formulated with extra durability, and is resistant to scratches, scuffs, and stains. It is also often washable, making it easy to clean and maintain. It has a low sheen finish, which helps to hide any imperfections in the surface and provides a subtle, elegant look.
Stains
A stain finish is specifically designed to allow the natural grain and texture of the surface to show through. This makes it a great choice for high traffic areas such as furniture, cabinetry, and doors where you want to highlight the natural beauty of the wood. Stain paint is also often used on exterior surfaces such as decks, fences, and outdoor furniture.
Best Paint Colors
Given below are some color options to choose from; pick the color that perfectly suits your personal style and the needs of your high traffic areas.
Shades of Gray
Gray is a popular color choice for high traffic areas because it offers a sophisticated and neutral look that can easily coordinate with a variety of other colors and design styles. From light, cool grays to dark, warm grays, there is a shade of gray to suit every taste and decor style. Shades of gray are also great for hiding dirt and scratches, making them an ideal choice for high traffic areas such as hallways and living rooms.
Earthy Tones
Earthy tones such as beige, taupe, and olive green are great choices for high traffic areas because they offer a warm and inviting look that is both timeless and versatile. These colors are also easy to match with other decor elements, making them ideal for areas that receive a lot of foot traffic, such as entryways and kitchens.
Warm Colors
Warm colors such as reds, yellows, and oranges can add energy and excitement to high traffic areas. These colors are best used in moderation, such as on an accent wall or in a small area, as they can be overwhelming if used too extensively. Warm colors are also great for making a space feel cozy and inviting, making them a popular choice for living rooms and dining rooms.
Best Type of Paint
By exploring the options below, you can make an informed decision and choose a type of paint that perfectly suits your needs and demands.
Latex Paint
Latex paint is durable, easy to clean, and dries quickly. It is also environmentally friendly, as it is made with water-based products, making it safe for indoor use. Latex paint is also easy to touch up and does not yellow over time, making it a good choice for long-lasting, high quality results.
It is available in a variety of sheens, from flat to high gloss, and is suitable for use on walls, trim, and doors. It can also be used on ceilings and is a popular choice for areas such as hallways, living rooms, and kitchens.
Epoxy Paint
Epoxy paint is known for its durability and resistance to wear and tear. It forms a hard, glossy finish that is resistant to chemicals, abrasion, and impacts, making it an ideal choice for areas that receive a lot of foot traffic. It dries to a hard, non-porous surface that is easy to clean and maintain. It is resistant to stains, grease, and oil, making it an ideal choice for areas such as kitchens and bathrooms where spills and splashes are common.
It can bond to a variety of surfaces, including concrete, metal, and wood, and it has excellent adhesion properties. When properly applied, epoxy paint can last for many years and can help protect the underlying surface from damage. Additionally, it dries to a tough, glossy finish that can improve a room’s look and add a touch of sophistication.
Oil-Based Paint
Oil-based paint can bond to a variety of surfaces, including wood, metal, and concrete, and it has excellent adhesion properties. When properly applied, oil-based paint can last for many years and help protect the underlying surface from damage. Also, it has excellent leveling properties, which means it dries to a smooth, even finish. This makes it ideal for use on surfaces with imperfections, as it helps to smooth out bumps and dents, creating a polished look.
To ensure that your high traffic areas receive the best paint treatment, we recommend contacting Bob Kunst Painting Inc. for our expert residential painting services. Our team of experienced painters will work with you to choose the right paint, finish, and color for your space, and provide you with a beautiful and long-lasting paint job. So, why wait? Contact us today and give your high traffic areas the transformation they deserve!