What is the difference between latex and oil-based paint?

Latex (water-based) paint dries faster, has lower odor, and is easier to clean up. Oil-based paint creates a harder, smoother finish and is ideal for doors, trim, cabinets, and high-wear surfaces. The best choice depends on surface type, durability needs, and environment.

What paint finish is best for interior walls?

Eggshell and satin finishes are the most popular for interior walls. Eggshell offers a slight sheen and is easy to maintain, while satin is more washable and durable for high-traffic spaces. Flat finishes work best for ceilings and low-traffic areas.

What are low-VOC paints?

Low-VOC (Volatile Organic Compound) paints reduce odor, improve indoor air quality, and are safer for families, pets, and businesses. Modern low-VOC paints offer excellent coverage and durability comparable to traditional paints.

Paint Types & Finishes: Choosing the Right Paint for Long-Lasting Results

Not all paint is the same — and choosing the wrong product can lead to peeling, poor coverage, odor issues, or premature failure. At Fagan Painting, product selection is a critical part of our professional painting process.

This page explains paint types, finishes, primers, VOC considerations, and brand quality differences, so you understand why the right materials matter as much as proper application.

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Paint Types: Latex vs Oil-Based Paint

Choosing the right paint type depends on the surface, environment, and use of the space.

Latex (Water-Based) Paint

Latex paint is the most common choice for modern homes and businesses.

Benefits include:

Faster drying time
Easier cleanup
Lower odor
Better flexibility over time
Improved resistance to cracking

Latex paints are commonly used for interior painting and many exterior painting projects when paired with proper preparation and primers.

Oil-Based Paint

Oil-based paints are still used in specific situations, especially for durability and leveling.

Often used for:

Doors and trim
Cabinets
High-wear surfaces
Specialty applications

Oil-based paints take longer to cure and require more ventilation, which is why professional handling matters — especially in occupied spaces.

For a deeper comparison, visit our Latex vs Oil-Based Paint guide.

The Role of Primers (Why Skipping This Step Causes Failure)

Primer is not optional — it's a bonding layer that ensures proper adhesion and uniform appearance.

Primers are used to:

Seal porous surfaces
Block stains
Improve adhesion
Prevent bleed-through
Extend paint lifespan

Primer selection varies based on surface type, previous coatings, and environmental conditions. This is a key step in our painting process.

Paint Finishes Explained (Flat to High-Gloss)

Paint finish affects durability, cleanability, and appearance.

Common Interior Finishes

Flat / Matte – Hides imperfections, low sheen
Eggshell – Slight sheen, easy to maintain
Satin – Durable, washable, popular for living spaces
Semi-gloss – Moisture resistant, ideal for trim and bathrooms
Gloss – High durability, highlights surface details

Finish selection is especially important for kitchens, bathrooms, and high-traffic areas. Learn more about room-specific considerations on our Interior Painting Services page.

For a complete breakdown, visit our Paint Finishes Explained guide.

VOCs & Indoor Air Quality

VOC (Volatile Organic Compound) levels affect air quality, odor, and occupant comfort.

Low-VOC and zero-VOC paints:

Reduce lingering odors
Improve indoor air quality
Are safer for families, pets, and businesses
Are commonly used in occupied homes and offices

We frequently recommend low-VOC options for residential painting and commercial painting projects where spaces remain in use during painting.

Learn more on our Low-VOC Paint Options page.

Paint Brands & Product Quality

Not all paint brands perform equally — even if colors appear similar.

Professional-grade paints:

Offer better coverage
Require fewer coats
Maintain color consistency
Last longer under wear and weather

Product selection is matched to the project, surface, and environment — never chosen based solely on price.

Matching Paint to Surface Type

Different surfaces require different coating systems:

Drywall – Proper priming for uniform absorption
Wood – Flexible coatings to prevent cracking
Brick & masonry – Breathable paints
Trim & doors – Harder finishes for durability
Exterior siding – Weather-resistant coatings

Surface evaluation and material selection are part of every estimate we provide. For surface-specific guidance, explore our Best Paint for Walls, Trim & Cabinets guide.

Why Paint Knowledge Matters

Paint science affects:

Durability
Appearance
Maintenance
Long-term cost

Using the wrong paint — even if applied well — leads to failure. That's why material selection is fully integrated into our professional painting process.

If you're comparing value alongside materials, explore our Painting Costs Guide to understand how product choice impacts pricing.

Get Professional Guidance on Paint Selection

Choosing paint shouldn't feel overwhelming. Our team helps you select the right products based on your space, goals, and budget. We'll evaluate surfaces, explain options, and recommend the best materials for long-lasting results.

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