Paint is more than an aesthetic enhancement — it’s how you protect, comfort, and add value over the long term. But not all paints are designed for the same job. The paint that’s suitable for your bedroom walls isn’t going to hold up on your backyard fence. That’s why selecting the right paint for each room in your home is such an important decision.
If you are considering house painting Camberwell or just a little update, selecting the right interior or exterior paint can save you both money and time in the future. Let’s see what works best where — and why.
Interior vs. Exterior Paint: What’s the Difference?
It all boils down to two competing priorities: look in vs. save out.
According to Inspire Painting, higher-quality interior paints are formulated to give a smooth finish and clean easily. They are made to deal with everyday wear and tear such as smudges, steam, and scuffs.
The bottom line with exterior paints is surviving the weather. They are smart sun, rain, wind, and mildew blockers. These paints won’t dry up and are less likely to fade.
In short:
- Interior paint = smooth, washable, low fumes
- Outdoor paint = durable, weatherproof, flexible
These finishes are painted-on by professional painters using special prep and coating practices. Knowing about the right techniques for professional house painting — including potentially, faux painting finishes — for doing painting adds quality for the life of your walls.
Best Type of Paint for Interior House Painting
Every room has its own set of needs. Here’s a simple primer to finishes:
- Flat/Matte: Ideal for ceilings or low-traffic walls. Covers marks but not easy to clean.
- Eggshell/Satin: Great for living areas and hallways. Slightly shiny, easy to wipe.
- Semi-gloss: For high-moisture areas such as kitchens and bathrooms. Resists stains.
- Gloss: Ideal for trim, doors, and cabinets. Durable and easy to clean, but a little too shiny.
Interior paints also tend to have less-foul smelling VOCs (volatile organic compounds) and dry with a softer, scrubbable finish.
Top Paints for Outdoor Use
The elements outside are tough on paint, and you want something more durable. Most exterior paints are acrylic for its elasticity and strong adhesion.
Common finishes:
- Flat: Covers imperfections in older walls, but not very durable.
- Satin/Eggshell: Most popular—has a soft gloss, excellent scrubbability and great stain resistance.
- Semi-gloss/Gloss: Recommended for trim, fences, and doors. Offers a durable, shiny finish.
Outdoor paint is also resistant to mildew, chipping and fading.
Why You Can’t Mix Them Up
Thinking of slapping some of that leftover exterior paint on your living room wall? Bad idea.
- Exterior paint inside: Strong odour, additional chemicals and a textured surface.
- Interior paint outside: No match for moisture or sun — peels quick.
If you’re in any doubt, local painters Camberwell will know what paints and other agents are going to work and to which surface. For optimal finish and to save money, always match paint to the surface and application.
The Prep Is the Job’s Make-or-Break
Paint adheres no better than the surface underneath. Here’s what to focus on:
For indoors:
- Clean off dust and oil
- Fill small holes or cracks
- Lightly sand glossy surfaces
For outdoors:
- Pressure wash away dirt or mould
- Repair damaged wood or render
- Scuff flaking spots and use primer
Ditch the prep and even the highest-quality paint will crack and peel.
Final Thoughts
The right paint can make a home more appealing, and also protect it from wear and tear. But using the wrong stuff — or bypassing prep — can result in swift damage and added expense.
Whether you are sprucing up your living room or protecting your outdoor siding, do it right the first time. Hiring trusted painters for your interior and exterior home projects, who knows your community and the right kind of paint for your climate. They’ll guide you in choosing the perfect finish for every area of your home — inside and out.
