When it comes to giving your home a fresh new look, painting is one of the quickest and most effective ways. But not all paints are created equal – different surfaces require different types of paint to look their best. So, what is the best paint for baseboard?
Baseboards are typically made from wood, which means that they need a type of paint that will adhere well to the surface and provide a smooth, even finish. A semi-gloss or high-gloss paint is usually the best choice for baseboards, as these types of paint have a more durable finish that can stand up to wear and tear.
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Best Baseboard Paint
When choosing paint for your baseboards, it’s important to pick one specifically designed. These types of paints usually have a higher level of VOCs (volatile organic compounds), which help to make them more durable and long-lasting.
Here are some of the best paints for baseboards that you can buy:
- Benjamin Moore Advance Paint
- Sherwin-Williams ProClassic Interior Acrylic Latex Enamel
- Valspar Duramax Semi-Gloss Baseboard and Trim Enamel
- Behr Premium Plus Ultra Pure White Semi-Gloss Enamel Interior/Exterior Paint
- Kilz Enamel High-Gloss Paint
No matter which type of paint you choose, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the best results. And if you’re not sure which paint is right for your baseboards, ask a professional at your local hardware store for advice.
Types of Baseboard Paints
As we mentioned before, the best type of paint for baseboards is typically semi-gloss or high-gloss paint. These paints have a more durable finish that withstands more wear and tear.
However, there are also different types of baseboard paints that you can choose from, depending on your needs. Here are some of the most popular types of baseboard paints:
Oil-based paints
These paints are known for their durability and resistance to chipping and fading. However, they can be more difficult to work with than other paints, and they often have a strong odor.
Water-based/ Latex-based
These types of paints are typically water-based and have a lower VOC level. They’re also easy to clean up and are less likely to yellow over time. In addition, they are easier to work with and have very little odor.
Acrylic Alkyd hybrid
These paints are a combination of oil-based and water-based paints, and they offer the best of both worlds. They have the durability of oil-based paint, but they’re easier to work with than oil-based paints. Additionally, acrylic paints are non toxic hence safe for babies and pets.
Different Paint Sheens
There are different “sheens” that you can choose from when painting. The sheen is the level of glossiness that the paint has. Here are the most common types of paint sheens:
Gloss or High Gloss
As the name suggests, high-gloss paints have a shiny, glossy finish. They’re durable and easy to clean, but they can show imperfections more easily than other paints.
Flat or Matte
Flat or matte paints have very little shine, and they’re good at hiding imperfections. However, they’re not as durable as high-gloss paints and can be more difficult to clean.
Semi-gloss
Semi-gloss paints have a shinier finish than eggshell or matte paints, but they’re not as glossy as high-gloss paints. They’re easy to clean and withstand more wear and tear than other paints.
Satin finish/ eggshell
Eggshell paints have a soft, velvety finish that is easy to clean. They’re not as durable as high-gloss or semi-gloss paints, but they’re good at hiding imperfections.
Choosing the Right Paint Sheen for Your Baseboards
Now that you know the different types of paint sheens, you might be wondering which one is right for your baseboards. Here are some things to keep in mind when choosing a paint sheen:
- If you want a durable finish that is easy to clean, choose high-gloss or semi-gloss paint.
- Choose flat or matte paint if you want to paint that is good at hiding imperfections.
- If you’re not sure which paint sheen to choose, ask a professional at your local hardware store for advice.
What to Consider When Buying Paint for Baseboards
Here are some of the factors you must consider before purchasing your paint:
Odor
If you’re sensitive to smells, you might want to choose a water-based or latex-based paint, as they have very little odor.
Cost
Oil-based paints are typically more expensive than water-based paints. However, they’re also more durable and easier to work with.
Smoothness
Choose paint with a high gloss level if you want a smooth finish. That being said, high-gloss paints can show imperfections more easily.
Color
When choosing a color for your baseboards, it’s important to consider the overall look you’re going for. If you want a traditional look, white is always a good choice. If you want something more modern, you can choose various colors, including black, gray, or even a bold color like red or yellow.
Workability
If you’re not experienced with painting, you might want to choose an easier painting to work with. Water-based paints are typically the easiest to work with, as they have little odor and are easy to clean up.
Durability
If you want a paint that is durable and easy to clean, choose an oil-based or acrylic alkyd hybrid paint. These paints are more resistant to wear and tear and won’t yellow over time.
FAQs
What paint finish is best for baseboards?
The best paint finish for baseboards is typically semi-gloss or high-gloss paint. This type of finish will help protect the baseboards from water and dirt, making them easier to clean.
Is semi-gloss or satin better for baseboards?
It depends on your preference. Some people prefer the semi-gloss because it shows less dirt and fingerprints, while others prefer the satin because it has a warmer look. If you have kids or pets, I would recommend going with the semi-gloss to easily clean up any messes.
What is the best paint brush for Baseboard?
There is no definitive answer to this question. It depends on the type of paint you’re using, the surface you’re painting, and your own personal preferences. Some brushes are better suited for smooth surfaces while others are designed for creating textured effects. You might also want to consider the shape of the brush head and its size relative to the area you’re painting.
In general, however, the best brush for trim and baseboad is a good quality paint brush will give you better results than a cheap one. So it may be worth investing in a good-quality brush that’s specifically designed for baseboard painting.
Conclusion
The best type of paint for baseboards is typically semi-gloss or high-gloss paint. These paints have a more durable finish that can withstand more wear and tear. However, there are also different types of baseboard paints that you can choose from, depending on your needs. Be sure to follow the manufacturer.