There are so many choices in paint. You want to do it yourself; however, you don’t want to look like a complete idiot when the sales clerk asks, “may I help you?” We can all understand the terminology; it simply takes a bit of “gray matter” effort. Check out the list below pick out what you need for your particular job and look good to the paint guy.

Enamel paint:

This paint has a high content of resin, making it have a nice gloss and is rub resistant consequently this would work well in area that is well used and needs to be washed every so often. Enamel can also be in latex form as well as alkyd.
 

Latex:

Water based, can be cleaned up with water, and also thinned with water. It has less of the offensive “paint odor” than paints that are of an oil base and will dry in a reasonably short time. It works well on areas with high alkali content such as new concrete.

Alkyd:

This paint is formulated to provide resistance to damage from abuse and abrasion. Alkyd is oil based solvent thinned paint. It has traditionally been used for heavy traffic areas, or doors, kitchen bathrooms, and cabinets. The surface created by alkyd paint is smooth and will help to refurbish any rough wood surface. It has a very strong odor. Paintbrushes will need to be cleaned with solvent.

Latex flat enamel:

Water based and easy to clean up, this paint has the benefit of latex. It more like enamel paint, in that it can be washed, and is more durable than normal latex. The finish is flat (not shiny).

Epoxy:

Similar to bake on enamel however it is placed on surface with two coatings used in kitchens and bathrooms where there is a likelihood of high moisture. Can be scrubbed with ease when needed.

Acoustic tile paint:

The many small holes in acoustic tile are there for a good reason, and that is to help absorb sound. Using regular paint would fill the holes and defeat the purpose intended, which is, making them soundproof. This paint is specifically formulated for this specific purpose.

Floor and deck paint:

To be used outside on decks, it is a heavy-duty paint and will resist the attack of changing weather and many “footsteps.” It may be purchased in a glossy formula or a flat surface paint. The shiny mix can be cleaned with ease, and the flat finish is more resistant to chips and cracks.

Do not buy cheap paintbrushes the extra cost of a good tool will save a big headache later. Find natural bristles for oil base paints and nylon bristles for water based paints. Check out new products on the market and read the labels.