Here’s a quick overview of the primary differences between latex and enamel paints:
| Enamel | Latex | |
| Finish | Gloss or satin | Matte, flat, eggshell, or satin |
| Additives | Must-have | Optional |
| Durability | Hard, shell-like surface that resists ye ... | Flexible surface |
| Drying time | 6 to 8 hours | 1 hour - 2 days |
Full Answer
What is the best primer paint for enamel paint?
- Stops Rust technology prevents rust forming on the surface
- 2 in 1 mixture of both filler and sandable primer
- Filler makes sure the tiniest imperfections are filled to allow
- Any angle spray and comfort tip makes spraying easy and quick
What is enamel paint and how is it made?
- Smooth finish – enamel has a smooth finish that rarely has any bumps or marks. ...
- Scratch-resistant – enamel is scratch-resistant. ...
- Permanent gloss – enamel leaves items with a glossy finish that doesn’t tend to fade. ...
- Permanent vibrancy – along with the glossiness that just won’t fade, the colors in enamel tend to be permanent. ...
What is the difference between Matte and satin paint?
Paint finishes
- Flat or matte. Flat or matte paint doesn't reflect light. ...
- Eggshell. Eggshell, as the name implies, has a similar sheen to an egg. ...
- Satin. Satin has a bit more sheen than eggshell, similar to that of a pearl. ...
- Semi-gloss. Semi-gloss paint has a bit more sheen than satin. ...
- High-gloss. High-gloss paint is highly reflective, almost glass-like. ...
What do you use to clean the matte paint?
- Sponge or cloth
- White vinegar
- Eraser sponge
- Foam cleanser
- Detergent
- Touch up paint and paint brush
What is Matt enamel paint?
Dulux Matt enamel is a high quality solvent-based super matt finish, suitable for use on all type of interior wood, metal and masonry surfaces. Dulux Matt Enamel has excellent resistance to steam and moisture, which makes it ideal for use in kitchens and bathrooms.
What is the difference between matte and enamel?
A matte sheen has a low-luster, reflective finish that is durable, easy to clean, touches up well and also hides minor surface imperfections. An eggshell enamel sheen has a soft, velvety appearance that resists dirt and grime, as well as mildew. A satin enamel sheen has a pearl-like finish that's easy to clean.
Can you get matte enamel paint?
If you can find a less reflective finish of enamel (such as the Rust-Oleum protective enamel brush-on paint and spray paints, which are available in a flat finish or matte for the clear spray paint), the terms "flat" and "matte" are often used interchangeably.
What is the difference between enamel paint and regular paint?
Enamel paint has a glossy look while acrylic paint has more of a matte paint finish to it. Enamel paint is mostly used for painting the exterior walls of the house while acrylic paint is used to paint the interior of the house. Enamel paint finish takes a comparatively longer period to dry than acrylic paint.
Is enamel paint always shiny?
Oil-based enamel paints have a glossy sheen that can vary in degrees from very high gloss to a flat finish. However, after some time and daily wear and tear, the gloss may be reduced, until it looks slightly dull.
What is matte paint used for?
Matte and Flat These paint finishes deliver a smooth, subtle look and show little to no sheen when dry since they absorb light. Pros: Matte and flat finishes cover imperfections in surface and application, making them a great choice for ceilings as well as walls in the bedroom, dining room and living room.
Is flat enamel the same as matte?
Similar to matte finish paints, flat enamel paint also has a nonreflective finish. However, flat enamel paint tends to be more durable than matte finish. Flat enamel is ideal for bathrooms, kitchens or powder rooms, since these surfaces tend to be cleaned more frequently and are exposed to more moisture.
Is enamel paint good for walls?
Enamel paint can be used on copper, metal surfaces, glass, wood, plastic, and even walls. The paint is resistant to moisture, and it's perfect for surfaces that need to be washed multiple times.
Does enamel paint need primer?
It is recommended to use a layer of primer before applying the enamel paint, especially on interior surfaces, furniture, cabinets and molding. Look for approved primers to be used on the type of surface you are going to paint. Some brands of enamel paint are even formulated with built-in primers that improve adhesion.
Are enamel paints waterproof?
Is Enamel Paint Waterproof? An oil-based or lacquer-based enamel paint is waterproof. They're ideal for wooden surfaces and exterior projects because they resist water and rot. Recently, water-based enamel paints called acrylic enamels have come out that are not waterproof.
Which is better enamel or latex?
While both types of paint can be quite durable under appropriate conditions, enamel paint is overall the more durable of the two. Designed to dry harder than latex paints, which can still be somewhat flexible when dry, enamel paint is more suitable for withstanding the fluctuating climates and temperatures outdoors.
Is acrylic paint better than enamel?
Enamel paint gives you much better results on metal than acrylic paint, as acrylic paint does not adhere well to smooth surfaces. Enamel paint will also dry hard, forming a durable coat that is rust-resistant.
What Is Enamel Paint Used For?
Many people use enamel paint incorrectly and end up with very poor results. Enamel paints are either water or oil-based and give you a durable hard...
What Is Acrylic Enamel Paint?
Is enamel paint water-based? The main factor when dealing with these paints is the solvent found in the makeup of the paint. Enamel paints are oil-...
What Is Enamel Spray Paint?
Enamel spray paint is a paint that dries fast to a durable, glossy finish, usually used on outdoor metal objects or indoor furnishings. It is the s...
When Is Enamel Paint Not a Good Idea?
Although enamel paint is very versatile and can be used on many surfaces and for many reasons, there are at times some places where you should not...
Can You Paint Over Enamel Paint?
Remember, whenever you are going to paint over a surface that has already been painted, you must prepare the surface well beforehand. This can be d...
What are the features of enamel paint?
One of the standout features of enamel paint is that it adheres to a wide range of materials, from slick to porous:
What is enamel paint used for?
Around the home, enamel paint is frequently used for appliance finish touch-ups. If you're in need of a paint ...
How to get enamel paint back on furniture?
Colorful enamel paint in a spray can helps to bring that furniture back to life. Use a pressure washer set to low pressure, or use a water hose, soft brush, and mild detergent to clean the furniture. Let the furniture completely dry, then spray it with two coats of enamel paint.
What is enamel in ceramics?
Enamel was associated in consumers' minds with the vitreous shell surfaces of porcelain and ceramic tiles, or of porcelain bathroom fixtures. These are products that potential buyers knew well—or at least they knew of these products. Enamel products were impermeable, sanitary, and very tough.
When did Sherwin Williams start using enamel paint?
Around 1900, Sherwin-Williams began advertising its version of enamel paint as the perfect coating for furniture and wickerwork. Powder coating has largely replaced baked enamel coating for industrial applications. However, enamel paint's main competition came when synthetic latex paints were introduced after World War II.
Is air dry enamel softer than water based enamel?
In reality, air-dry enamel paints are far softer than true enamels formed in a kiln. Paint manufacturers have further widened the definition by sometimes attaching the word enamel to water-based paints, thus losing the one ingredient that usually ties together all enamel paints: solvents.
Is enamel paint similar to glass?
Yet enamel paint bears no similarities with the enamel of molten glass, as there is no glass content in this kind of paint. Even traditional baked enamel finishes, long used for vehicles, have nothing to do with glass. The baking is simply a fast route to eliminating solvents and VOCs .
What Is Enamel Paint?
The history of painting itself goes back many centuries, for even in the Stone Age, paint was part of cave paintings. Then, in the 19 th century, the paint began to play a more active role in society and paint factories began to pop up all over the world.
Recommended Enamel Paints
When out shopping for paints, it can seem overwhelming as you have so many choices available. In most hardware stores, those that work there are knowledgeable about paints. So, if you do get stuck, simply ask for help. Below are our two recommended paints for both water-based and oil-based enamel paints.
What Surface Is Best for Applying Enamel Paint?
What is enamel paint used for? At home, there are lots of surfaces you can apply enamel paint to. You can also use various forms of application from using a brush, roll-on paintbrush, or spray. This should provide you with a glossy, durable, and solid surface. Here are a few examples of some more popular surfaces in and around your home.
How to Paint With Enamel Paint
In this article, we have already considered what enamel paint is some of the differences between the enamel paint as well as the acrylic paint, and what surfaces you can apply it to. Let us now move on to the painting process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Many people use enamel paint incorrectly and end up with very poor results. Enamel paints are either water or oil-based and give you a durable hard opaque finish, and they are mainly used on metal surfaces or the interior of your home.
What does matte paint mean?
This means that what one paint manufacturer calls "matte" may resemble the "flat" finish of another manufacturer, or vice-versa. The best way to make sure you are getting the finish you want is to purchase a sample and test it on the desired wall or surface. Kelly Smith has been writing professionally since 2010.
What is matte finish paint?
Matte. According to Better Painters, matte finish paint is sometimes referred to as suede or velvet finish. Matte finish paint is low-gloss, but usually has more shine than flat finish paint. The small amount of gloss in matte finish paint gives it the ability to cover imperfections, while still being easy to clean.
How does the finish of paint affect the color of the wall?
The finish of your paint can affect the way the color appears when it is applied, as well as the paint's durability. The terms "matte" and "flat" are often used interchangeably.
Does paint reflect light?
This means the paint does not reflect light, making it a good solution for masking imperfections or irregularities on walls, ceilings, or other surfaces. Better Painters also notes that it is easier to add touch-up coats to flat finish paint, because it blends in better than with paints having a glossier finish.
What is Matte Paint?
Matte paint is painted with an extremely low sheen level. This means it doesn’t look shiny or reflect sunlight. It holds a large amount of pigment compared to other types of paint. Because of this, it is amazing at covering up imperfections on ceilings or walls. Matte paint also requires fewer coats than other paint types due to the fact that it has such high amounts of pigment. This makes it cost-effective and easy to work with.
Why is matte paint so popular?
It holds a large amount of pigment compared to other types of paint. Because of this, it is amazing at covering up imperfections on ceilings or walls. Matte paint also requires fewer coats than other paint types due to the fact that it has such high amounts of pigment. This makes it cost-effective and easy to work with.
What is the best paint for a wall?
If you are lucky enough to have huge pieces of artwork that you want to be the focal point of your room, matte paint is the perfect background. Matte paint provides a smooth, velvety backdrop for all things art. If you have bright art with a gold frame, try painting your wall a matte gray.
What is the finish of a paint?
The finish of your paint can be just as (if not more) important when transforming your space. Whether you are a boho queen or an expert on everything high-end, the finish of your paint can leave you with the space of your dreams. From satin to glossy, matte, and more, your paint selection will elevate your space.
Why is it important to paint small areas?
It is important to try to paint as small of an area as possible in order to make sure the colors look the same. Feathering the edges of wear you paint can help the paints blend in better together. If you have a spot that is covered by furniture, touching up the paint will not be noticeable either.
How to blend paints together?
If you have a small blemish that needs to be covered up, using a small foam roller or something similar can help it blend in. It is important to try to paint as small of an area as possible in order to make sure the colors look the same. Feathering the edges of wear you paint can help the paints blend in better together. If you have a spot that is covered by furniture, touching up the paint will not be noticeable either.
Is it stressful to pick the right paint color?
But, it is not right for every room or every project.
What is flat enamel?
Flat enamel is ideal for bathrooms, kitchens or powder rooms, since these surfaces tend to be cleaned more frequently and are exposed to more moisture.
What is satin finish paint?
With a bit more gloss than an eggshell finish, satin finishes produce a shinier look . Commonly used for interior wood trim, hallways, ceilings and windows, paint with a satin sheen can also be used for wall paint virtually anywhere—the kitchen, the dining room and children’s bedrooms. Satin finish is designed to withstand cleaning and light washing, which makes it suitable for rooms or areas with lots of traffic.
What is the best finish for a wood panel?
With a very minor shine or gloss, eggshell finish holds up better than a matte or flat finish when cleaning. The ideal use for an eggshell finish is for wood such as interior paneling, living rooms, bedrooms, wallpaper and other previously painted textures.
What is the difference between oil based and water based paint?
Another decision you will probably be faced with in your painting project is whether to choose an oil-based or a water-based paint. Oil-based paint takes a longer time to dry and can be more durable than latex. Clean-up is more of an effort, since you need to have paint thinner on hand. Some homeowners choose oil-based paint for trimwork, since these parts of your home tend to experience more wear and tear over time. Water-based (latex or acrylic) paint is most commonly used, since it’s easier to work with, colors stay vibrant for a longer period of time, there is less of an odor and this type of paint dries more quickly.
Is semi gloss paint good for kitchen cabinets?
Semi-gloss is easy to clean and produces a subtle shine without being too bright when reflecting light. Semi-gloss is not ideal for poorly prepared walls or surfaces due to the semi-gloss producing a highlighted effect; imperfections stand out when covered in semi-gloss paint. This type of paint is ideal for doors, kitchen and bathroom cabinets.
Can you use gloss paint on walls?
While not commonly used for home interiors, namely wall paint, gloss has been used for a dramatic effect on cabinets and trim within formal or contemporary designs. Walls with imperfections should not be painted with gloss due to its ability to illuminate them.
Can you use primer on a wall?
Primer doesn’t adhere as well onto clean surfaces, so applying a coat of primer onto a wall that’s in good condition may be unnecessary. If the base color you are applying is similar in color to the existing paint, you don’t need the help of primer to have a better base for your new color.
What is flat paint?
Flat paint has more pigment than any other finish, which is why it's also known as concealer paint—it's also called matte paint. It's completely nonreflective, so the paint will soak up any light directed at it. Flat paint tends to be easier to apply than other finishes, and it also usually a less expensive option.
When should I not be using flat paint?
But, if you're using a high quality flat paint, you'll be able to scrub away any imperfections on the wall after 30 days of painting the surface. Also important to keep in mind: fFlat paint is not resistant to moisture, making it the worst choice for a bathroom wall.
Can you use flat paint on a wall?
You should be using flat paint on walls and areas that have a lot of bumps, scratches, or holes. Since it can conceal these blemishes easily, it'll be the one paint finish you'll want to be using. It's best for low-traffic rooms that have a ton of light like offices and more formal rooms, like dining rooms.
What is the difference between matte and gloss paint?
The less light reflected, the less durable the finish; however, fewer imperfections are shown. Matte will reflect little to no light , satin retains a pearl-like sheen , whereas semi-gloss and gloss finishes reflect the most light. Let’s review the pros and cons of each in detail.
Which paint finish has more pigment?
Matte and flat paint finish have more pigment and often provide more coverage, which can save you money.
Can you combine paint finishes?
In addition to choosing a paint finish that falls into one of these types, you also can combine types to create the perfect finish. Before meeting with your professional painter, use the guide below for our professional recommendation based on each room in your house:
