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Types of Bathroom Paint

Pragya T
One needs to make a wise choice from the various types of paint, so that the bathroom walls are well-protected from any moisture damage...
When the question of best paint for bathrooms comes up, many people recommend 'semi-gloss'. Semi-gloss is not a paint color but actually a finish. However, there are many paint colors which come with this finish. These paints save time as one doesn't need an application of finish paint on the paint color layer.
However, many prefer to use two different paints for this job. Also, one has to decide between water-based and oil-based paints. If you are wondering about all this and are confused about choosing the right type of bathroom paint; then consider problems associated with bathroom first, and then decide on the paint(s).

Problems Associated with Bathrooms

Most problems associated with bathrooms are due to moisture. With water constantly splashing on the walls and the humid environment of bathroom, there is a risk of mold or mildew growing on the walls.
One can especially see mold or mildew growing on the bathroom ceiling. Hence, it is very important that one selects a paint which is moisture-resistant. Also, there are many special paints that allow the surface to be scrubbed and cleaned.
There are some special paints that even have fungicide properties. So, one needs to make a smart combination of various types of paint to keep the bathroom walls free from any moisture-related problems.

Various Paints Used for Bathrooms
It is important to prepare the wall surface well, because bathrooms generally need glossy finish. Imperfections on wall show easily if a glossy finish is applied, so ensure you get rid of any imperfections on the wall by using a sealer and primer.
Water-based (Latex) Paint: Water-based paints also called latex or acrylic latex, don't contain latex but are water-based paints. They are cheaper compared to oil-based paints and are eco-friendly.
Their drying time is also faster. So, if you are looking for all these features then consider going for water-based paints. Water-based paints also come with a gloss finish.
Oil-based Paint: Oil-based paints use a hydrocarbon-based solvent, that acts as an alkyd resin. Oil paints are tough-resistant paints, which are good for areas of the house like the bathroom and laundry rooms which need waterproofing. Also, surfaces painted with oil-based paints can stand many falls and hits.
The drying time of oil-based paints is higher as it contains oils or other synthetic resins. As it contains toxic chemicals in it one needs to be more careful when applying these paints. If you are painting a bathroom for children then avoid oil-based paints, and consider latex paints.
Mold and Mildew-resistant Paint: There are some special paints which claim to resist the growth of mold and mildew. Some of these paints are available in white color and can be tinted to a color of your choice, while some manufacturers offer many color options. Consider these colors from Perma-White or from Sherwin Williams.
Anti-condensation Paint: There are some special paints used in kitchens and bathrooms, which prevent the surface from becoming cold to the touch and thus are less conducive to condensation. They often contain a fungicide.
Semi-gloss Finish: This is one of the most popular finish for bathrooms. Paint finishes are just another application of a transparent paint to the walls, which allows the underlying color to show through, but helps protect the surface. Semi-gloss finish can be scrubbed and it can also be used to create faux finish.
High-gloss Finish: This finish is very reflective and gives plastic look. It should never be used to completely paint the walls. If you want, use it to paint bathroom wall trims for a striking look.
Satin Finish: If you don't like the look that semi gloss paint gives, then consider satin finish. This is a very good finish when it comes to painting bathroom ceiling. It can stand light scrubbing and hold to cleaning too. It gives a smooth, velvety finish with a little bit of gloss.

Bathroom Walls Preparation

Before one starts to use the paint color, one should always prepare the surface well. This involves getting rid of any cracking and dry paint off the walls. So, get rid of all the old paint. Clean the walls with a powerful water hose to get rid of any mold, mildew, dust, grime, and old paint.
If previously the walls had any mold or mildew growing on it, then you need to thoroughly clean the walls. So, wear protective gear and get a mold and mildew cleaner and apply the fungicide to the walls. Leave it for the recommended time and wash the walls.
Sometimes multiple applications of a fungicide are recommended. Then let the walls dry completely. It is important that you keep the bathroom space well-ventilated when cleaning the walls and using any chemical cleaners.
After the wall is dry, use a sealer to seal off any cracks, holes, or gaps in the wall. Let it dry, and then sand down any uneven surfaces on the wall. Then clean the walls with a vacuum cleaner and apply a coat of primer and let it dry. Primer helps the new coat of paint to adhere well to the surface.
After the layer of primer, choose any good paint color and apply it to the walls. Choose a suitable oil or water-based paint. Then finally apply a finish to cover the walls and to protect them better.