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The 10 Best Paints for Interior Walls for 2023

Sherwin-Williams Cashmere Interior Acrylic Latex is our top choice

By

Theresa Holland

Theresa Holland

Theresa Holland is a freelance writer specializing in home improvement, cleaning, and bedding. She shares her favorite life hacks on her blog The Taboo Textbook.

Learn more about The Spruce's Editorial Process

Updated on 02/10/23

Reviewed by

Deane Biermeier

Reviewed by Deane Biermeier

Deane Biermeier is an expert contractor with nearly 30 years of experience in all types of home repair, maintenance, and remodeling. He is a certified lead carpenter and also holds a certification from the EPA. Deane is a member of The Spruce's Home Improvement Review Board.

Learn more about The Spruce's Review Board

We independently research, test, review, and recommend the best products—learn more about our process. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.

The Spruce / Lecia Landis

Perhaps the biggest issue when selecting paints for interior walls is that there are simply so many choices. "Ask yourself what type of space it's for—residential, commercial, rentals, high-end, etc.—and what type of use the space will endure," says Louis DeCrosta, owner of L.A. Painting.

With expert tips from DeCrosta in mind, we researched and tested a range of paint brands, including options with various finishes, dry times, and cleaning requirements. Our number one pick is Sherwin-Williams Cashmere Interior Acrylic Latex, a paint-primer hybrid that goes on evenly and promises a buttery-smooth finish.

Frequently, you can find our selections at manufacturer retail outlets or at big-box stores. Many brands, however, are available only from one store.

Our Top Picks

Best Overall:

Sherwin-Williams Cashmere Interior Acrylic Latex at Sherwin-williams. com

Best Budget:

Glidden Interior Paint at Home Depot

Best Splurge:

Backdrop Standard Finish Paint at Amazon

Best Paint-Primer:

Benjamin Moore Regal Select Paint and Primer at Ace Hardware

Best for High-Traffic Areas:

Sherwin-Williams Duration Home Interior Paint at Sherwin-williams.com

Best Stain-Resistant:

BEHR Ultra Scuff Defense Paint & Primer at Home Depot

Best for Dark Walls:

Valspar Signature Interior Paint + Primer at Lowe's

Best Single-Coat:

HGTV Home by Sherwin-Williams Infinity Paint + Primer at Lowe's

Best Quick-Dry:

BEHR Dynasty Interior Stain-Blocking Paint & Primer at Home Depot

Best Chalk:

Rust-Oleum Chalked Paint at Amazon

In This Article

Courtesy of Sherwin-Williams

View On Sherwin-williams. com

What We Like

What We Don't Like

The best paint for interior walls depends on your goals and preferences, but we believe Sherwin-Williams Cashmere is an all-around winner. This paint-primer combo boasts buttery-smooth application, automatically leveling out to a perfectly even layer. Which means you shouldn't have to worry about permanent brush strokes or roller marks.

This paint is available in five sheens and endless hues, as well as custom colors. It effortlessly hides existing colors and imperfections. Cashmere also dries to the touch in an hour. When it sets, you're left with an ultra-rich finish that looks great from every angle. It's super easy to scrub clean, too.

This wall paint can only be purchased directly from Sherwin-Williams, and at upwards of $50 per gallon, the price is slightly steep. Still, we think the stunning, durable results are well worth it.

Intended Surface: Walls, trim, doors | Coverage Area: 400 square feet | Dry Time: 1 hour

Courtesy of The Home Depot

View On Home Depot

What We Like

What We Don't Like

On a budget? At less than $20 per gallon, Glidden Essentials interior paint gets the job done without breaking the bank. Whether you're refreshing your living room, entryway, kitchen, or bathroom, you can count on excellent coverage, with a brush, roller, or sprayer, and an easy-to-clean finish with soap and water.

This wall paint is available in flat-matte, as well as eggshell and semi-gloss textures, and can be tinted into upwards of 1,000 colors. We also appreciate that this is a low-volatile organic compound (VOC) latex formula, with minimal odors.

We recommend this paint although we note that its budget price may come with some less-than-spectacular results, based on the surface or other factors. However, the manufacturer backs it with a 15-year warranty.

Price at time of publish: $18

Intended Surface: Walls, trim, doors, bathroom | Coverage Area: 350 square feet | Dry Time: 2–4 hours

Courtesy of Backdrop

View On Amazon View On Backdrophome.com View On Urban Outfitters

“Curated and DIY”: Backdrop Paint

What We Like

What We Don't Like

"If we are aiming for a high-end look, we may want to look into . . . a design-forward paint brand with great color choices and strong pigments," says DeCrosta. Backdrop was a hit with our home tester, who liked the curated, on-trend color options and accurate adhesive samples you can stick to your wall.

"For the convenience of the curated color choices, self-adhesive sample, and the option to shop for paint supplies on the site, I loved the Backdrop experience," she said in her full product review. "However," she continued, "I paid about $20 per can more than I normally would and didn’t notice a huge difference in paint quality." 

About $70 a can is undoubtedly expensive, but the premium, water-based formula is conveniently self-priming. Based on where you purchase it, you can select from 74 colors with whimsical names such as "Night on Earth" (a bold olive green) and "Stromboli Chess Club" (a cornflower blue). It's also low-VOC, and thanks to the acrylic resin component, easy to apply and quick-drying, with minimal odors. But you need to wait 3 or 4 hours to apply a second coat, which you almost assuredly need.

Price at time of publish: $75

Intended Surface: Walls, trim | Coverage Area: 400 square feet | Dry Time: 1 hour

Courtesy of Benjamin Moore.

View On Ace Hardware View On Benjaminmoore.com

What We Like

What We Don't Like

Anyone who has painted knows how much of a hassle it can be to apply primer before the main coat. We like Benjamin Moore Regal Select, which combines primer and paint. We especially appreciate that you can purchase it flat, matte, eggshell, pearlescent, or semi-gloss finishes and nearly 4,000 hues. The manufacturer notes that this paint adheres well to most surfaces, including wallboard, plaster, wood, and metal. It should apply well whether you use a brush, roller, or sprayer.

The self-priming formula hides existing wall paint colors and imperfections, but bear in mind you likely need two coats. We also like that it has a mildew-resistant coating, plus stain-release technology that makes it incredibly easy to clean. The manufacturer notes this paint is VOC compliant in all areas but may not be available everywhere because of state VOC regulations.

Price at time of publish: $83

Intended Surface: Walls, trim, doors, wood | Coverage Area: 400 square feet | Dry Time: 2 hours

The 12 Best Paint Roller Covers of 2023 for Any Project

Courtesy of Sherwin-Williams.

View On Sherwin-williams.com

What We Like

What We Don't Like

We recommend Sherwin-Williams Duration as the best interior paint for busy households and high-traffic areas. The combination paint and primer is available in all Sherwin-Williams colors, as well as textures that include flat, matte, satin and semi-gloss. ("If you are in a space that will have very high traffic and/or high humidity/moisture, I recommend a semi-gloss to a high-gloss," says DeCrosta. "The sheen provides a barrier.")

The manufacturer says its antimicrobial agents promise to inhibit mold and mildew, while stain-blocking technology hides old marks and helps new ones wipe clean. We have noted that it's possible to apply two coats (needed) in one regular day; expect 2 hours or so for a coat to dry enough for a second coat.

Though $80 is a lot for a gallon of paint, it's backed by a lifetime warranty.

Price at time of publish: $81

Intended Surface: Walls, trim, doors, bathrooms | Coverage Area: 400 square feet | Dry Time: 2 hours

The 11 Best Paint Brushes of 2023

Courtesy of BEHR.

View On Home Depot View On Behr.com

What We Like

What We Don't Like

For a surface benefiting from a flat finish, such as a dining room or bedroom, BEHR Ultra Scuff Defense is a great option. It's so durable, it's virtually un-scuffable, making it a perfect choice for high-traffic areas and homes with kids and pets. Not only that, but it conceals existing imperfections and offers ongoing resistance to stains and mildew growth. While the manufacturer positions this paint as a combination paint and primer, we note that some surfaces may need priming first.

This is not a paint to use for a quick job. Generally, glossy surfaces need scuffing and sanding before applying a flat paint. The manufacturer specifies 2 hours drying time before applying a second coat, which we've found to be slightly longer than average. Dark colors may need more time. And this paint requires 30 days to fully cure. You also need 30 days for any new plaster to cure before painting. Also, this is sold exclusively at The Home Depot, but you can find a store in most communities of any size.

The price is comparable to many paints we've evaluated. The manufacturer also offers a lifetime warranty.

Price at time of publish: $43

Intended Surface: Walls, trim, doors, bathrooms | Coverage Area: 400 square feet | Dry Time: 2 hours

The 9 Best Paint Rollers of 2023

Courtesy of Lowe's

View On Lowe's View On Valspar. com

What We Like

What We Don't Like

If you need to cover a darker existing wall color or stubborn stains, the best indoor paint is Valspar Signature. The 100 percent acrylic formula delivers rich color that goes on smooth and hides everything underneath. You can use it on many platforms, including drywall, plaster, wood, fiberglass, and metal. It's a combined paint and primer, and can be used as a primer before applying the main coat. However, the manufacturer recommends that you apply a primer for best results, and then paint two coats on "properly prepared" walls or ceilings.

You can purchase this paint in eggshell, flat, satin, or semi-gloss finishes. Its dry time, at 77 degrees Fahrenheit is 30 to 60 minutes to the touch, and 2 hours for a second coat. Backed by a lifetime warranty, it's also resistant to mildew, stains, scuffs, and fading. Once dry, this durable paint can be cleaned as needed with soap and water.

While you can order this paint online from the manufacturer, it's available for pickup only at Lowe's stores.

Price at time of publish: $40

Intended Surface: Walls, trim, doors, wood, concrete | Coverage Area: 400 square feet | Dry Time: 2 hours

The Best Paint Edgers to Get Professional Results for Any DIY Project

Courtesy of Lowe's.

View On Lowe's

What We Like

What We Don't Like

No time for two coats? This one-and-done, self-priming wall paint promises ultra-smooth perfection in a single layer and can be tinted to pretty much any color imaginable. You can use it effectively on many surfaces besides drywall, including concrete and masonry, and wood. We like that unlike many self-priming paints, this paint is effective to be used on basement walls and doors, according to the manufacturer.

The high-performance acrylic formula repels stains, scuffs, scratches, and mildew, with a lifetime warranty to back up its durability. It's also a breeze to wash off with soap and water.

While we note that many users agree that one coat is enough to cover white or light-colored walls, darker surfaces may require additional coats. The manufacturer doesn't specify the dry time for additional coats, but we recommend at least 2 hours. This paint, with a limited lifetime warranty, is available only at Lowe's stores.

Price at time of publish: $66

Intended Surface: Walls, trim, bathroom, wood | Coverage Area: 400 square feet | Dry Time: 30–60 minutes

Courtesy of BEHR.

View On Home Depot View On Behr.com

What We Like

What We Don't Like

BEHR Dynasty is dry to the touch in an hour and not tacky whatsoever after 4 hours. For that reason, you can use it on doors and drawers. You can purchase this paint in matte, eggshell, satin, and semi-gloss finishes. it is available only at The Home Depot stores.

The manufacturer positions this brand as its most durable one-coat paint, resisting scuff marks such as shoe heels. If you're repainting existing light-colored surfaces, you can likely get away with a single coat. But the manufacturer agrees that darker colors might take a little longer to cure.

We appreciate that this paint has an antimicrobial finish that repels stains and wipes clean with minimal elbow grease. The manufacturer also offers a lifetime limited warranty.

Price at time of publish: $60

Intended Surface: Walls, trim, doors, wood, concrete | Coverage Area: 400 square feet | Dry Time: 1 hour

How to Choose Paint at Home Depot

Courtesy of Walmart

View On Amazon View On Home Depot View On Walmart

What We Like

What We Don't Like

Chalk paint, which has been around since 1990, is good for quick jobs, or for leaving a matte, perhaps intentionally distressed appearance. You can use it right out of the can with no priming. Besides painting your walls, you can use it to transform wood furniture, metal fixtures, and ceramic items. (Note this type of paint should not be confused with chalkboard paint, which creates a chalkboard-like surface when applied.)

While the original chalk paint was created by the Annie Sloan brand, there are many versions now. But we recommend Rust-Oleum Chalked as the best chalk paint. The ultra-matte formula creates a semi-distressed look, ideal for rustic and vintage-inspired interior design schemes. This low-odor latex paint is easy to apply, effortlessly adhering to most surfaces, and is dry to the touch within 30 minutes.

The manufacturer claims that one coat is enough for most surfaces, but applying a topcoat 8 hours after the first coat has dried adds extra protection. Just bear in mind the flat finish is more prone to scuffs and stains than glossier sheens.

While many paint brands are available only through manufacturer retail stores or selected big-box stores, you can buy Rust-Oleum at many places. We also note that this brand costs considerably less than other types of paint. But the look is not for everyone.

Price at time of publish: $32

Intended Surface: Walls, furniture, fixtures | Coverage Area: 150 square feet (1 quart)| Dry Time: 30 minutes

Final Verdict

Overall, for most uses, we like Sherwin-Williams Cashmere Interior Acrylic Latex. This interior paint boasts buttery-smooth application, effortlessly hiding existing wall colors and drying perfectly even. If you're on a budget, consider Glidden Essentials Interior Paint. And if you're looking for a single-coat, high-coverage formula, HGTV Home by Sherwin-Williams Infinity Advanced Performance Paint + Primer is your best bet.

Intended Surface

When buying interior paint, first consider whether you plan to use it on drywall only or the trim and doors as well. Louis DeCrosta, owner of L. A. Painting, recommends thinking about your overall goal and what type of use the space will endure. "For example, if the paint is for a rental, we would want something low- maintenance (easy touch-ups and durable)," he says. "If it's a space that will endure humidity or moisture, we want to use a paint that is rated for these areas."

Color

The color you pick is likely your second biggest consideration when selecting interior paint. Even if you already know which color interior paint you want, there are many shade choices. Most major paint manufacturers offer an extensive selection of color chips. Use them to narrow down your options, then consider purchasing a pint-sized paint tester to try out the color at home. Note that colors appear differently depending on the room light. So make sure to examine the color under the most prevalent lighting conditions.

If you can’t find an exact match in the color swatches, typically, you can have a custom color mixed at your local paint store. Bring in a sample of the shade you’re imagining—it can be anything, even a pillow or a favorite sweater—and a color code machine called a spectrophotometer scans and deciphers the color. The machines aren’t perfect, so visually check the color to see if it’s on target with what you were imagining. The paint mixer should be able to tweak it further, if necessary.

Another option is a small device, the Color Muse (view on Amazon), which can scan a wall, counter, or other object and find you the closest color match among top paint brands. The device reads the RGB (red, green, blue) values of the color and identifies paint choices that match. If no matching shade is found, the device provides you with the RGB code to create a custom paint shade. Paint color options are limitless. The bigger task is selecting your top choice for your space, style, and furnishings.

Finish

The finish you choose depends on where you are painting and how resilient you want the surface to appear. You have three basic finish categories to choose from, and sometimes paint is categorized by these finish types. Select from a flat finish, low-luster (which can include "eggshell" and "satin"), or glossy finish. High gloss finishes add drama, while flatter finishes might play into calmer surroundings.

Flat paint, also called a matte finish, is exactly as it sounds—the resulting finish doesn’t reflect much light. This type of interior paint is good for surfaces that won’t see much action, like ceilings. It’s usually the least expensive type of interior paint, but it can be difficult to keep clean and look fresh. Only use flat paint if you’re on a tight budget and using it on an out-of-the-way location. On the plus side, matte paint hides imperfections better than shinier finishes.

The next type of finish is low-luster, which reflects light only slightly. Low-luster paints include eggshell and satin finishes. Of the two, eggshell is slightly flatter. But compared to a true flat finish this one is versatile, and offers increased durability and ability to keep clean. Satin or eggshell finish is appropriate for most walls of your home, including the living room, bedroom, hallways, bathrooms, and more.

Finally, paints with glossy finishes offer a high amount of sheen or light reflection and a harder finish than flat paints. This category includes semi-gloss paints that are slightly flatter than their glossy counterparts. Glossy paint is best used on windowsills or handrails, while semi-gloss paints are popular in higher-humidity areas such as kitchens or bathrooms. Glossy paints look beautiful but magnify any imperfections in their surfaces.

VOCs

If you've ever experienced a headache, nausea, or nasal irritation during or after painting a small, enclosed space, it's likely the result of inhaling volatile organic compounds (VOCs).

The federal Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) defines VOCs as "any compound of carbon, excluding carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, carbonic acid, metallic carbides or carbonates, and ammonium carbonate, which participates in atmospheric photochemical reactions. " These gases are emitted in some quantity by paint along with many household liquids. In sufficient quantities and prolonged exposure, they can be harmful to health.

The EPA has established a limit of 2.1 pounds of VOC per gallon. You should examine the paint can label and ask your seller about how much VOC is contained in each gallon.

As a general rule, when painting indoors, allow yourself the best ventilation possible.

Additives

Some interior paints have additives to enhance the application or finish of the paint. Consider what you’re trying to achieve with your painting project to determine which—if any—additives are necessary for your purposes.

Enamel is one of the most common additives found in interior paint. The addition of enamel to the paint formula results in a harder, more durable finish. This could be important for high-traffic areas where dirt might infiltrate the paint, or if the finish is subjected to lots of touching and bumping.

Coverage and Dry Time

Interior wall paints are often dry to the touch and ready for a second coat within 1 to 2 hours. However, some paints take up to 4 hours to dry, and others take several days or more to fully cure—meaning the finish is no longer tacky. Darker colors may take longer to set than lighter colors. Also, if you need to apply more than one coat, you may have to wait longer before the first coat is dry enough. This can take 8 hours or longer.

Durability and Maintenance

Ideally, wall paint should resist stain and be easy to clean, especially when applied to high-traffic areas and homes with pets or kids. According to DeCrosta, something with at least a semi-gloss finish is easiest to clean. "People [often] ask for an eggshell finish because it isn't too shiny, and you can wipe fingerprints and dirt off the wall easily," he says.

FAQ

Theresa Holland is a seasoned commerce writer and product tester specializing in home improvement and decor. For this story, she interviewed Louis DeCrosta, owner of L.A. Painting, who provided insight into the varying finishes and maintenance requirements of interior wall paints. After considering dozens of options and notes from our home testers, she narrowed it down to the most user-friendly, easy-to-clean, high-performance formulas with stunning finishes.

The Best Exterior Paints of 2023

Updated by

Lauren Murphy

Lauren Murphy

Lauren Murphy is a DIY expert and writer focusing on cooking, crafting, and making home decor projects.

Learn more about The Spruce's Editorial Process

Article Sources

The Spruce uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.

  1. The Latest Color Updates: Faster and Easier than Ever. PPG.com

  2. Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs). Minnesota Poison Control Agency.

  3. What is the definition of VOC? U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

  4. Volatile Organic Compounds' Impact on Indoor Air Quality. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

  5. Architectural Coating Rule for Volatile Organic Compounds. U. S. Environmental Protection Agency. 

The Best Interior Paints Tested in 2023 - Top Picks from Bob Vila

We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs.

Photo: Glenda Taylor

Whether painting walls, furnishings, cabinets, or trim, quality interior house paint is the key to good-looking, long-lasting results. But the sheer variety of interior paints to choose from at home improvement centers and hardware stores can be confusing. Purchasing the wrong one could negatively affect your project’s ease, speed, and durability—and even impair indoor air quality.

With so many recent improvements in paint formulations, including an increasing number of eco-friendly options, we were curious about which of the brands and types available today were really the best—so we tested them. We researched and analyzed all the top brands from the top manufacturers, then narrowed it down to eight options. We tested each of the paints by brushing and rolling them on, and we analyzed how well they covered and whether they stood up to typical cleaning.

Ahead, learn more about selecting the right paint for any interior project, and discover why the following products are among the best interior paint options for most users. Don’t miss our test results—we reveal the pros and cons of each pick!

  1. BEST OVERALL: Sherwin-Williams SuperPaint Interior Acrylic Latex
  2. BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Glidden Premium PPG Eggshell Interior Latex Paint
  3. UPGRADE PICK: Sherwin-Williams Emerald Designer Interior Latex
  4. BEST FOR KITCHEN AND BATH: Behr Premium Plus Interior Satin Enamel Paint
  5. BEST STAIN-BLOCKING: Sherwin-Williams Duration Home Interior Acrylic Latex
  6. BEST INTERIOR ENAMEL: Sherwin-Williams Emerald Urethane Trim Enamel
  7. BEST FOR CEILINGS: Behr Ultra Stain-Blocking Ceiling Paint
  8. BEST ONE-COAT PAINT: HGTV Home Infinity Interior Paint & Primer

Photo: Glenda Taylor

Types of Interior Paint Finishes

All of our recommendations are available in various finishes, including the ever-popular eggshell and satin. These finishes are the most widely used for bedrooms, living rooms, and dining rooms thanks to how they balance the durability of glossier paint finishes with the forgiveness of more matte ones—meaning they aren’t so glossy that they highlight imperfections in the wall. If painting a bathroom or a kitchen, consider bumping up the sheen one level to a semi-gloss for extra resistance to water. When researching interior paint reviews, try to notice whether the user mentions the quality of the finish.

Paints are available in five sheens: gloss, semi-gloss, eggshell, satin (velvet), and matte (flat). Matte or flat paints are the less expensive options, but they are harder to keep clean and are less durable. Flat paints are best for ceilings and low-traffic areas. Gloss is the easiest to clean, lasts the longest, and tends to be more expensive. Gloss paints work best on high-touch surfaces such as doors, trim, and cabinetry. Higher-sheen paints also take longer to cure.

What to Consider When Choosing the Best Interior Paint

A new coat of paint is a simple and affordable way to update the interior of a home. Although the color is crucial to achieving the desired overall effect, choosing the best paint for interior walls is just as essential to ensure pleasing results. Weigh these factors in any paint product to avoid common pitfalls.

Viscosity

Viscosity refers to a paint’s thickness and structure, also known as the paint’s body, which will generally be either dense or flowing. Paint with higher viscosity is a thicker, slower-moving paint. High-viscosity paints splatter and drip less but take longer to dry. Low-viscosity paints are thinner and tend to drip and splatter more, but they dry quickly.

A paint’s viscosity also informs which application method can be used with success. Ceiling paint has a higher viscosity than most wall paints and poses a lower risk of drips and splatters when applying overhead. Some types of interior wall paint have a lower viscosity, so they tend to drip off the brush or roller more readily. Their quicker dry times mean less waiting to put on a second coat.

Durability

Oil-based paints are more durable than water-based (a.k.a. latex or acrylic) paints. Oil-based paints are best for high-traffic areas or exteriors. Manufacturers offer only a few oil-based paints for interior use these days because they typically emit unpleasant, potentially unhealthy fumes. Fortunately, latex paints have become more durable and of higher quality.

A paint’s durability also goes hand in hand with sheen level, whether it’s oil- or water-based. The higher the sheen (such as semi-gloss or satin), the easier it is to clean and the longer it will last. However, higher-sheen paints can typically highlight any imperfections on the surface.

Suitability for the Surface

Interior paints come in a few varieties: acrylic or latex (water-based), alkyd (oil-based), and newer water-based alkyd varieties that perform like oil paints but emit less harmful fumes. Shoppers will want to choose the type that holds up best on the surface they plan to paint.

Opt for the more consistent finish and fade resistance of latex or acrylic paint for walls, seldom-used furnishings, and cabinetry in dry areas. Consider the more impact- and rot-resistant oil-based or water-based alkyd paint for trim work, kitchen and bathroom cabinets, and everyday furnishings.

VOCs

Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are chemicals found in many oil- and water-based paint products that easily evaporate and can emit toxins into the surrounding air. VOC exposure can induce headaches, nausea, or liver and kidney damage, so the lower the VOC content, the more eco-friendly the paint. Seek out paints labeled “zero-VOC” or “low-VOC” to minimize exposure to harmful fumes. When painting outdoors, fumes are not as big a deal, but when applying paint for interior walls, most users prefer one that doesn’t smell too strongly or give them a headache.

Dry Time

Because VOCs can be emitted into the air from the time of paint application up to a few months after the paint cures, choosing a paint that dries and cures quickly can help minimize VOC exposure. Look for water-based paints that dry to the touch in 1 hour and cure within 30 days. Oil-based paints should optimally dry to the touch in a few hours, can be recoated by 4 hours, and fully cure within 7 to 14 days. Most paints require the full 14 days to be cured sufficiently for washing or scrubbing.

Should You Buy a Paint and Primer in One?

Self-priming interior paints, usually labeled “paint and primer,” are worth considering: They have a built-in binding agent that improves adhesion to the surface, and no separate primer coat is required. For those with busy lifestyles, hunting for the best interior paint primer and the best paint for walls takes more time than necessary. When buying the best paint-and-primer-in-one product, it’s a good idea to look at a reputable brand, such as Benjamin Moore or Sherwin-Williams. Since shoppers will only be buying and applying a single product, they will want to make sure it’s a top-quality interior wall paint.

Photo: Glenda Taylor

Our Top Picks

Below are the top interior paint performers from our hands-on testing. While they differ slightly in type—some are better suited to ceilings while others proved ideal for walls in children’s rooms—they all excelled in our tests. Whether they’re looking for a high-end paint for an accent wall or a hard-working one that will resist stains, shoppers will likely find it in this lineup of the best indoor paint for most projects.

Photo: sherwin-williams.com

SEE IT

The Sherwin-Williams SuperPaint line is one of the best paints for walls, and it’s popular with professional painters because of its superb coverage. With just one coat, this high-quality paint easily covered a circle we drew with a thick black marker on our drywall test board. We tested a color called Berry Frappe in a satin finish, and we were impressed with the high amount of pigment in this acrylic paint. After the recommended 4 hours, we added a second coat, and it dried to form a hard, smooth finish on the test board. This is a relatively thick paint with high viscosity.

SuperPaint is advertised as having “air-purifying” technology. While we can’t confirm that it purified the air, we can say that it had virtually no odor. For anyone sensitive to typical paint fumes, consider trying this low-VOC paint.

We gave the painted swatch 2 weeks to cure completely and then sprayed all-purpose cleaner on the painted area and scrubbed with a white rag. No paint color came off on the rag, so we deemed it to be indeed scrubbable.

Using a roller, we also tested how SuperPaint went on a larger drywall sheet. We found it easy to apply—no runs and no globs—and it smoothed out as it dried, so there were no visual stipples (texture) left behind from the roller.

In terms of downsides, SuperPaint is pretty pricey and it’s only available at Sherwin-Williams stores, although users can order online and then pick the paint up locally.

Product Specs

Pros

Cons

Get the Sherwin-Williams SuperPaint interior paint at Sherwin-Williams.

Photo: homedepot.com

SEE IT

Good-quality paint can be costly, but we found that Glidden Premium interior paint in an eggshell finish provided coverage as good as some of the more expensive brands we tested—at a more reasonable price. Glidden Premium is a combination paint-plus-primer product, so we expected it to cover well, and it did. After applying a single brushed-on coat, we could no longer see the black permanent marker circle we’d drawn on the test board. This may have been partially due to the dark tone of paint we tested, called Royal Indigo, but it was still impressive. We repainted the test board after 2 hours—the time recommended by the manufacturer—although we felt a single coat would have been sufficient. We also rolled the paint on a larger drywall sheet, and it went on smoothly and uniformly.

Now for the minor downside: After waiting 2 weeks for the paint to dry and harden completely, we sprayed on a little all-purpose cleaner, scrubbed the surface with a white rag, and found a slight purple stain on the rag. That indicated some of the paint was rubbing off—not much, but enough to see the color. The paint’s finish still looked good after it dried. We could not tell the difference where we’d scrubbed.

We feel this Glidden product is still an excellent paint, especially because it comes at an affordable price point. It offers great coverage and a smooth finish. Because we removed some of the color with a rag, however, we suggest using this paint in adult bedrooms rather than children’s bedrooms or playrooms where it might not hold up to frequent scrubbing.

Product Specs

Pros

Cons

Get the Glidden interior paint at The Home Depot.

Photo: sherwin-williams.com

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We really liked the finish we achieved with Sherwin-Williams Emerald interior paint—the color was so rich and bold, and the surface was almost velvety to the touch. We tested this paint in Ripe Berry, in an eggshell finish that Sherwin-Williams oddly calls “Eg-Shel. ” It went on uniformly with both a roller and a paint brush. The first brushed-on coat completely covered the permanent marker circle. To be fair, Ripe Berry is a pretty deep shade, so we can’t be sure a lighter shade would have covered the marker quite as well. We applied a second coat as recommended after 4 hours and then let it dry for 2 weeks before spraying with all-purpose cleaner and wiping it with a white rag. No paint color came off on our rag.

This is low-VOC paint, and while we detected a faint odor, it didn’t bother us. One of the nicest things was the way this paint self-leveled to a very smooth surface. Even when we took the test board outdoors in the sunlight to examine it closely, we couldn’t make out any brush marks. Impressive

Emerald is a pricey paint, but we feel it’s among the best low-VOC interior paint options. It imparts a high-end look and feel and is washable to boot. There are more than 200 colors in the Emerald Designer line, so there’s a color for every taste. The way the paint self-smooths may just make a DIY paint job pass for one by a professional painter.

Product Specs

Pros

Cons

Get the Sherwin-Williams Emerald interior paint at Sherwin-Williams.

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Kitchens, bathrooms, and laundry rooms tend to be high-moisture areas, so it’s always best to paint them with washable, moisture-resistant paint. We found that Behr’s Premium Plus Enamel fit the bill. This is a combo paint-plus-primer, and it covers well—we could only see a faint outline of our permanent marker circle on the test board after the first coat of Premium Plus, which was in a satin finish and a mid-purple tone called Unimaginable. After waiting the recommended 2 hours, we added a second coat, and we couldn’t see a trace of the marker.

This is a relatively thick paint, but it went on smoothly when using a brush on the test board and when rolling on a larger drywall sheet. When the second coat dried, we could barely see the brush marks—it smoothed out so nicely. We did detect an odor when applying Premium Plus, but it is a low-VOC product.

In the scrubbability test, we got a faint hint of the paint color on our white rag—barely enough to be noticeable. Behr also boasts something new: a pourable funnel that fits right on the can lid. Typically, after pouring paint from a can into a roller pan, the paint runs down the side of the can and makes a mess. With Behr’s new funnel lid, we had no drips or mess. We hope other manufacturers follow suit.

Product Specs

Pros

Cons

Get the Behr Premium Plus interior paint at The Home Depot.

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Painting over walls that have stains can be frustrating if the paint dries and the old stains bleed through. Duration Home paint from Sherwin-Williams is designed to block stains, and it’s also formulated to resist new stains and mildew. While we didn’t have a way to test whether it genuinely discourages mildew growth, we can verify that a single coat of Duration Home on our test board completely covered the circle we’d drawn with a permanent marker.

We tested a color called Morning Glory in a semi-gloss finish. This combo paint-and-primer product goes on smoothly and evenly with both brush and roller. The manufacturer doesn’t recommend a second coat, and we felt one coat was sufficient—as long as we applied it liberally (not so much that it ran, but enough to form a reasonably thick layer). We didn’t skimp, so we didn’t have to add a second coat.

We waited 2 weeks before spraying it with an all-purpose cleaner and rubbing it with a white rag. We didn’t find any coloring at all on our rag. This paint dries to a nice, hard finish that would be well suited to children’s bedrooms, playrooms, and family rooms.

Product Specs

Pros

Cons

Get the Sherwin-Williams Duration Home interior paint at Sherwin-Williams.

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Let the kids play! With Sherwin-Williams Emerald enamel on walls, doors, and trim, smudges and smears from little fingers wipe off with ease. We’ve used a lot of Sherwin-Williams paint over the years, but this was our first experience with their Emerald urethane-based enamel, and it won us over.

We tested Emerald in a deep tone called Clematis in a semi-gloss finish. The paint was pretty thick, which usually indicates good coverage, and with just one coat brushed on our test board, Emerald completely covered our permanent marker circle. We brushed on a second coat 4 hours later (the suggested wait time), and we also rolled the enamel on a larger drywall sheet. It rolled on smoothly and covered uniformly. Because this is an enamel often used on wood, we also brushed two coats of paint on a wood baseboard. Emerald created a hard, attractive, and durable finish on all three materials. We detected a mild odor during testing, but at less than 50 grams of VOCs per liter, Emerald enamel qualifies as low VOC.

The paint also excelled in our scrubbability test. After a week, we sprayed the painted test board with an all-purpose cleaner and scrubbed it with a white rag—no color came off on the rag. This is likely due in large part to the inclusion of urethane, which helps create a rigid, impermeable shell. Though a pricey paint, it’s excellent for those who want quality coverage, a uniform finish, and the ability to scrub the walls without removing the paint. We would suggest it for walls and trim in high-usage rooms.

Product Specs

Pros

Cons

Get the Sherwin-Williams Emerald interior paint at Sherwin-Williams.

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Ceilings are more challenging to tape and mud smoothly, so many builders apply a textured surface to ceilings. For the best finished look, flat ceiling paint is also used. We think Behr’s stain-blocking ceiling paint is worth considering.

It was the only paint we tested that came in white rather than a color, but white is traditional on ceilings. A single coat of Ultra ceiling paint didn’t entirely cover the circle we’d drawn on the test board with a permanent marker. We could still see the marker—but just faintly—after the second coat dried. We waited another 2 hours (recommended time between coats) and then applied a third coat. The directions on the can advise a third coat may be necessary. After the third coat dried, we could no longer see evidence of the marker—just a smooth, white surface.

After a 2-week wait, we sprayed the ceiling paint swatch with an all-purpose cleaner and wiped it off with a navy blue rag. We spotted a faint white color on the dark rag, but not enough to concern us. The Ultra ceiling paint dried almost as smoothly as the more expensive paints we tested, and we couldn’t discern any brush marks.

This is low-VOC paint, and we could not detect any odor from it at all. It was also mess-free to use, as it came in one of Behr’s new funnel-type paint cans that allowed us to pour it into the roller pan without the paint running down the side or dripping.

Product Specs

Pros

Cons

Get the Behr Ultra interior paint at The Home Depot.

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In our experience, oftentimes paint advertised as “one-coat” will need a second coat for full coverage. We were prepared for HGTV Home’s Infinity paint to need a second coat to cover the circle we drew in permanent marker on our test board. We were wrong. We brushed on a single coat—this paint-and-primer combo is relatively thick—and we could not see any evidence of the marker beneath the paint when it dried.

We were especially impressed because we tested a light-medium tone called Magical in a satin finish that we felt sure would show through. Typically only deep or dark colors cover stains with a single coat. We must mention that this is a Sherwin-Williams interior latex paint explicitly made for HGTV Home, and we can verify it lives up to Sherwin-Williams’ quality standards.

We left the paint swatch for 2 weeks to cure fully before spraying the surface with all-purpose cleaner and wiping it down with a white rag. None of the paint color came off on our rag. We also rolled the paint on a larger drywall sheet, and it went on evenly and covered well. We didn’t detect any odors from this low-VOC paint.

One slight downside, however: Both the rolled and the brushed-on paint left applicator marks—not large ones, but we could still see brush strokes and stipples from the roller. For that reason, users who apply this paint might get the best results by using a roller and following good painting techniques. These include applying the paint with a wool nap roller (costs more but worth it!), keeping a wet edge at all times, and using a very light touch on the wall.

Product Specs

Pros

Cons

Get the HGTV Home interior paint at Lowe’s.

Our Verdict

The Sherwin-Williams SuperPaint interior paint came in as our top pick because it’s an all-in-one paint and primer that creates a lasting finish and durable surface that holds up to scrubbing. It’s popular among professionals and comes in a range of finishes and colors. However, the best type of paint for interior walls need not break the bank. Our Best Bang for the Buck pick, the Glidden interior paint, took top honors for a paint that offered excellent coverage in an affordably priced product.

How We Tested the Best Interior Paints

We looked at more than three dozen brands and types of interior paints in selecting the ones to test. We considered brand reputation to an extent—it’s tough to beat the quality of Sherwin-Williams’ paint products, but we didn’t automatically eliminate other brands. We also looked at overall customer satisfaction and considered the paint’s versatility, usability, and price. Low-VOC products also piqued our interest, and fortunately, low-VOC paint technology has reached the point where most interior paints emit few fumes.

For the actual testing, we cut drywall into rectangular pieces and used painter’s tape to create a square in the middle. We drew a circle using a thick black permanent marker in the middle of each square. We applied the different paint products on each square via a paint brush. Our intent was two-fold: We wanted to see how many coats it took to conceal the drawn-on circle completely, and we were also looking for the degree of self-leveling—a term that refers to how smoothly and mark-free the paint dries. High-quality paints tend to smooth out well, while lower-quality paints can leave distracting brush marks.

We also used a roller to apply the same paints to a larger sheet of drywall to compare rolled-on coverage and to determine how much paint was needed to impart a uniform color on the drywall (no thin spots). With enamel paint, we also brushed it on a wood baseboard, as this formula is typically designed for hard-working trim and cabinets. We applied the number of coats recommended by the manufacturer, and then we examined the painted swatches to see how well the paint covered the drywall and camouflaged discrepancies.

We awarded points based on a rubric during each test and examination—the better the paint did on a test, the higher the points. After testing, we added each product’s points and averaged them, using the final figures and assessing the paint’s strongest points to categorize the top picks on our list.

FAQs

Before making a final selection, the following answers to frequently asked questions may provide additional insight into the optimal procedures for selecting the best type of interior paint for walls.

Q. What brand of paint do professional painters use?

Benjamin Moore and Sherwin-Williams are two of the best-selling brands on the market among professional painters.

Q. What paint colors are best for bedrooms?

The best colors for bedrooms are nonvisually stimulating hues such as blues and greens or cool grays and neutral creams. However, the best paint to cover dark walls is often another deep or dark tone.

Q. What type of paint makes a room look bigger and brighter?

Light paint colors make a room look bigger and brighter.

Q. What is the 60-30-10 rule, and how do I use it to choose interior paint?

This rule states that 60 percent of the room should be a dominant color, while 30 percent should be the secondary color or texture, and 10 percent should be an accent color. The room’s main color—the walls—should be 60 percent. Use the 30 percent or secondary color in the draperies, accent chairs, bed linens, or on an accent wall. The remaining 10 percent should be in the accent decor, such as wall trim and throw pillows.

Q. Should I paint my ceiling and walls the same color?

Painting your ceiling and walls the same color will draw the eye up, creating the illusion of a larger room and higher ceilings. However, using a dark color can have the reverse effect and make a room look smaller and closed-in, especially if there isn’t enough natural light.

Why Trust Bob Vila

Bob Vila has been America’s Handyman since 1979. As the host of beloved and groundbreaking TV series including “This Old House” and “Bob Vila’s Home Again,” he popularized and became synonymous with “do-it-yourself” home improvement.

Over the course of his decades-long career, Bob Vila has helped millions of people build, renovate, repair, and live better each day—a tradition that continues today with expert yet accessible home advice. The Bob Vila team distills need-to-know information into project tutorials, maintenance guides, tool 101s, and more. These home and garden experts then thoroughly research, vet, and recommend products that support homeowners, renters, DIYers, and professionals in their to-do lists.

What is the best facade paint, reviews and photos

Contents

  1. Requirements for paints for house facades
  2. Which facade paint to choose: types and recipes
  3. Teknos facade paints and varnishes
    3. 1. Acrylate
    3.2. Silicate
    3.3. Oily

The house faces the world with a painted façade that forms the first impression of the dwelling and the owners. With the right choice of paint and varnish material in the next 5-7 years, the owner does not wonder which facade paint is the best.

But choosing the right dye is not easy. Along with decorative functions, the coating layer protects the structure from adverse factors and retains its protective properties for more than one year.

Requirements for

paints for house facades

When painting exterior walls and architectural elements, strict requirements are imposed on coatings in a number of parameters.

When looking for the best paint for wooden facades, look for additives to repel woodworms, as well as flame retardants that reduce the combustibility of wood.

Which facade paint to choose : types and recipes

The variety of facade materials and conditions of use predetermined the difference in compositions of coatings for outdoor use. The basic components of any paint are a solvent and a binder, on which adhesion to the painted surface and other properties depend. After drying, the protective film on the surface is formed by the binding base, which is used as synthetic and mineral components:

The proportion of these substances is directly related to the quality of the paint product.

Use organic compounds or water as a solvent. For indoor painting, there are more stringent safety requirements that limit the use of solvent-based coatings. There are no such prohibitions for outdoor work. But giving priority to high-quality and environmentally friendly products, Teknos also produces the best paints for the facade of the house on a water basis.

Teknos facade paints

The Teknos catalog contains paints for outdoor use on various surfaces.

Acrylate

Acrylate-based waterborne paints are available in several products.

Silicate

Traditional paints that are easy to work with, withstand the harsh conditions of the Russian north and are a stylish solution for the architectural ensemble.

The disadvantages of the products include insufficient elasticity and a limited choice of colors within the Siloksan color chart.

Oil

Teknos offers oil-based coatings primarily for wood staining.

Before buying, consult with our managers about the compliance of the selected exterior paint with the conditions of use and the possibility of tinting in the desired color.

The best wood paint for outdoor use - painting a wooden house

Paint base - which one to choose?


Much depends on the base of the paint - its service life, consumption, drying time, environmental safety, choice of primer, solvent and application method. Facade paints for wood are usually made on one of three bases: acrylic, alkyd or oil.

Acrylic paint

Acrylic (also called Water Dispersion ) Exterior Paint has a range of advantages over alkyd and oil paints :

1. Environmentally friendly. In the manufacture of such paint, the usual organic solvents (white spirit, solvent, and others) are not used. This material is based on water with acrylic polymers dissolved in it that carry color.

2. A slight smell also follows from the manufacturing technology, when painting, you do not need to wear a respirator or be afraid of a headache.

3. Long service life, the longest among wood paints.

4. Fast drying - at room temperature up to 1-2 hours.

Of the minuses of water-based wood paints are less bright shades compared to alkyds and a lower level of wood protection due to a lower water repellency.

Alkyd enamel

Enamel based on alkyd resin with the addition of an oil modifier. The main advantages of over acrylic paints :

1. High weather resistance, wide temperature range.

2. Chemical resistance.

3. Vibrant colors, available in gloss or semi-gloss.

4. No drying shrinkage, the paint remains flexible after drying (especially important when painting wood that has not been completely dried).

5 . Best hiding power, no streaks at normal use.

Alkyd paint dries at room temperature much longer than acrylic paint - up to 12 hours, although complete drying occurs approximately simultaneously - after 1-2 days.

The main disadvantages of such paint are low environmental friendliness and high fire hazard during work.

Oil paint

Oil paints use natural drying oil as a base. Foreign representatives rarely have such materials in their assortment, usually these paints are domestic. They are worse than both acrylic and alkyd coatings in almost all respects, however, a tree previously painted with oil paint will only have to be painted with oil paint in the future.

Compared to other types of oil paints :

1. Dry worse - primary drying occurs no earlier than a day later.

2. Possess the worst hiding power - blisters and paint smudges are not uncommon.

3 . The most toxic - safe natural drying oil is too expensive to produce, so these paints are based on resin-based drying oils - usually alkyd.

4. The least resistant to adverse environment: they have low moisture resistance and frost resistance.

Summing up , we can say that you need to choose which paint to paint a wooden house between materials based on acrylic or alkyd. In general, now there is no point in choosing oil paint for wood for outdoor use, except when a similar material has been used before.

Alkyd enamel is better for those who want a bright glossy or semi-gloss color, for the walls of houses in severe frosty conditions, for fresh clapboard or block house lining.

Acrylic paint is a good choice in almost any other occasion.

Established wood facade paint manufacturers

Domestic

Tex

The largest manufacturer of paints and varnishes in Russia. Of the features - its own tinting table with more than 500 colors. Under its own brand, it produces the entire set of paintwork.

Yaroslavl colors

Another large paint and varnish factory. Works under the brands Premia and Bright. It produces both familiar brands of materials (for example, YARKO PF-115 enamel), as well as innovative lines.

Rogneda

It produces facade paints for wood under the Dali brand. It has its own laboratory for the development of materials, has proven itself well in the market for 20 years.

Neomid

The youngest company on the list, operating since 2005. Nevertheless, it has a powerful scientific potential, supplies coatings to most Russian car factories. It is known more for its protective compositions, but it also produces paints with enamels.

Foreign

Belinka

Slovenian manufacturer of a full range of wood protection materials. It has been producing paint and varnish products since the middle of the 20th century, they appeared in Russia at the beginning of the current century, but managed to prove themselves.

Tikkurila

Finnish company specializing specifically in wood materials. Production is currently concentrated in Russia, but there are no quality problems. Of the advantages, in addition to time-tested quality, there is a large network of tinting centers.

Pinotex

Brand of AkzoNobel holding, one of the world's largest chemical concerns. This holding also owns the Dulux brand.

How to paint a wooden house?

Painting a wooden building is a job that almost everyone can do. However, despite the seeming simplicity, there are a number of nuances in this lesson, failure to comply with which will lead to rapid wear of the coating or an unplanned visit to the store.

Material calculation

Before picking up a roller, you need to purchase the required amount of paint, primer, and the right tool.

First of all, you need to calculate the area of ​​​​the surfaces to be painted and, based on the type of paint chosen, calculate the required amount of material. Average consumption per coat per 1 m 2 for different paints is:

Next, you need to calculate the amount of soil needed to prepare the surface:

Material consumption will be higher on rough surfaces and previously unpainted walls. To the resulting amount of paint and primer, it is worth adding 7-10% for the stock - usually this is enough for unaccounted surfaces and compensating for overspending. In addition, consumption increases when using a spray gun.

In addition to paint and primer, you will need :

If the paint is applied to a previously painted or unprepared surface, the following may also be useful:

To eliminate defects in the wall, you will need to use wood putty.

Work technology

Walls must be cleaned of dust and peeling paint. Existing damage (holes from knots, defects in boards, etc.) should be repaired with putty.

To do this, you can take high-quality stationery tape, stick a strip to the wall and, after waiting 2-3 minutes, tear it off with a sharp movement. If there is paint left on the adhesive tape, it must be removed completely. To do this, use washes, a building hair dryer, a brush or a grinder. The chosen method of removing the old coating depends on the availability of the tool, time, financial possibilities, etc.

The coating is done in two layers. The usual drying time for primers for applying the second layer is 3-4 hours, for natural drying oil - about a day. The exact time of readiness is indicated on the package. The use of soil is not necessary, but it extends the life of the coating by 1.5-2 times. In extreme cases, you can use paint diluted with a solvent in a ratio of 1: 1 instead of a primer.

It is important to observe the layer thickness and not to exceed it - paint applied in 1 layer with a consumption of 300 g/m. 2 at a rate of 130 g/m 2 will quickly begin to peel off. It is best to paint in 2 layers with a difference of a day between applications.

Keep track of the condition of the coating, you still have to paint the house every 5-10 years, and restoring damaged wood is expensive and not always successful.

Facade painting works are carried out in dry weather, at a temperature not lower than 5-10°C.

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