Quality House Painting
What is quality when it comes to Paint? A good quality paint will do what is expected and required of it. In objective terms, this includes covering imperfections, not fading, resisting marks stains and damage. It should also be easy to apply. In subjective terms the paint should look good, be the right colour to suit the décor, and reflect light in a pleasing manner. In some cases, the application determines the best type of paint. A good interior paint for most rooms might not be suitable for a bathroom or exterior surface, despite being good quality. We compare some popular brands available in Australia, such as Taubmans and Dulux, so homeowners make an informed decision.
Key Qualities of High-Quality Interior Paint
Covering Imperfections
The superior quality paint should have good covering ability. This is because walls invariably have some imperfections such as small cracks, dents, and uneven textures. Even a well-repaired imperfection can show through if the paint is substandard. Good quality paint will largely conceal any underlying imperfections. Of course, a good undercoat/primer also goes a long way to covering imperfections, but that only means we are looking at the quality of the undercoat/primer paint. Really, both the undercoat and the final paint should have good covering ability. This is more noticeable when repainting a home, as new buildings have minimal imperfections on the walls.
Stain Resistance
Stain-resistant paints are designed to repel dirt, grime, and other stains, making them easier to clean. Glossy finish paint or eggshell paint tends to give good results here. Basically, the stain does not soak into the paint surface. Matt paint, though they look good, tends to be a little more prone to staining. This anti-stain quality is particularly important for high-traffic areas like kitchens and hallways, where walls are more likely to encounter spills and smudges.
Scrubbing Resistance
Scrubbing resistance refers to a paint’s ability to withstand cleaning without losing its finish. High-quality paints maintain their colour and integrity even after repeated scrubbing, which is essential for homes with children or pets.
Painting without Running, Sagging, or Dribbling
The viscosity of the paint is important. If the paint runs, sags, or dribbles it will create unsightly marks and an uneven finish. Nobody likes this. Quality paint maintains its consistency and adheres well to the wall surface. This gives a smooth application that stays in place until it dries. It also means the paint is a little easier to apply.
Fade Resistance
Over time, exposure to sunlight can cause some paints to fade. This is most noticeable when only part of the wall is exposed to the sunlight, leaving you with walls that are uneven in colour. Fade-resistant paints retain their colour longer, ensuring that the interior remains vibrant and fresh-looking even in sunny rooms.
Other Paint Quality Considerations
In some circumstances, a paint might need other qualities, such as mould resistance in a damp environment, or a certain amount of stretchiness on a surface that flexes. Sometimes paint needs to be super durable for high-traffic areas, or just not reflect light in a harsh manner.
Popular Paint Brands in Australia
Two of the most popular paint brands in Australia are Taubmans and Dulux. Both brands offer high-quality paints, but they have different characteristics that make them suitable for different situations.
Taubmans vs. Dulux
It is a mistake to assume that there is a single “best” paint brand for all interior applications. Really, the best paint for the job will vary depending on a specific job. It might need needs mould resistance, UV fade resistance, hardness, stretchiness, or a texture that reflects light in a certain manner.
Australian Paint Performance Comparison
Choice, a consumer advocacy group, tested 24 interior wall paints available in Australia, evaluating them based on hiding power, stain resistance, scrubbing resistance, and cost. The top three paints were:
Resene Zylone Sheen:
- Best scrubbing resistance.
- Suitable for high-traffic areas requiring frequent cleaning.
Dulux Wash and Wear Plus Superhide Low Sheen:
- Best stain resistance.
- Ideal for areas prone to spills and stains.
Taubmans Endure:
- Best overall compromise on hiding power, stain resistance, and scrubbing resistance.
- Good all-around paint for various interior surfaces.
Practical Considerations
Professional painters may have a paint preference based on their style or work. Dulux is known for its thicker consistency, which provides excellent coverage and minimizes the risk of runs or sags. This makes it a good choice for Korean painters who apply thicker coats. In contrast, Taubmans has a thinner (more viscous) consistency, which might lead to sagging if not applied carefully. But this does allow the same amount of paint to cover a larger surface area. However, both brands offer excellent final results, making the choice largely dependent on the painter’s technique and the specific requirements of the project.
Other Considerations
While premium paints like Resene, Dulux, and Taubmans offer superior all-around performance, a few cheaper paint brands can still provide decent results in terms of hiding power and stain resistance. What we need to watch out for is their scrubbing resistance. They can be more likely to wear away with frequent cleaning. If they were used on a ceiling or area that is rarely touched, they might work quite well.
But areas subjected to constant use, or that require regular maintenance, will need high-quality paint that will stand up to the harsh conditions.
Conclusion
Selecting the best type of paint for home interiors involves considering various qualities such as covering imperfections, stain resistance, scrubbing resistance, and consistency during application. In Australia, brands like Taubmans and Dulux offer top-notch options, each with unique strengths suited to different needs. By understanding these factors and choosing the right paint, homeowners can contact us today to ensure an attractive and durable finish for their home interiors.
