A Simple Field Guide to Paint: A Closer Look at Latex, Alkyd, and Sheen

Michelle Zanatta

Now that you have decided you are going to makeover your room, it would be a good idea to review what the paint department has to offer. Here are some useful tips to make sure your home project doesn't only achieve the best look, but also the best effect on your walls.

Though there is an array of paint choices to choose from such as; alkyd, latex primer, stain-blocker, satin, eggshell, flat paint, enamel, gloss, and semi-gloss - there are really two main types, which are: latex and alkyd. Every other type of pain is just a variation.

Here is a list of facts concerning latex paint:

  • 1. Latex is accountable for about 67 percent of paint sold in the United States according to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

  • 2. Latex paint used to contain rubber, but now most manufactures use resins and acrylic.

  • 3. Latex paint is water base - which makes it easy to clean up!

  • 4. Latex fumes are a lot less than alkyd fumes, but it still does contain toxic chemicals.

Here is a list of facts concerning alkyd paint:

  • 1. Alkyd paint used to be considering oil paint because it had a linseed-oil.

  • 2. Alkyd paint is not water based, and it is not water soluble.

  • 3. Alkyd paint does not clean up with water - instead you will need to dip a rag in mineral spirits.

  • 4. Alkyd paint is very effective at sealing stains.

Important! Some states may have regulations concerning alkyd paints for environmental concerns. Check your local paint store for more information.

I know you want to jump in the home project, but let's consider a few basic reminders about priming that must be done before you transform your room. I know you are probably thinking the following:

  • 1. Do I have to prime?

Yes, you must prime beforehand - or at least if you want good results! Whether you are working with a latex paint, or alkyd paint, a primer is the first step in making sure your room receives the best outcome.

  • 2. I don't want to prime! It is too time consuming!

Sure it is time consuming, but well worth it! If you do not prime, the paint will usually peel off.

  • 3. If my primer is just slightly damp, can I just go ahead and paint over it?

It is not a good idea to paint over the primer if it is not completely dried. Primers are only good when they are able to form a strong bond to whatever you are painting. If the primer is still damp, chances are it hasn't had enough time to bond…

  • 4. I primed, and painted my wall - why do I still see stains?

No matter how good or expensive the paint is that you are purchasing, some stains just continue to bleed through - (I should know, my son has an infatuation with permanent markers!) In this situation it is important to choose a stain-blocking primer.

  • 5. Do stain-blocking primers come in alkyd or latex?

Both - and you may purchase them in an aerosol can or liquid.

What about that sheen?

Okay - now that you aware of the primer you want to use, the color you are going to use, let's talk about that sheen!

There are five different types of sheens to choose from. Let's review each type of sheen so that you are able to make the correct choice for your home project. Here are some common questions:

  • 1. Why is sheen important?

When you walk into your relaxed den, turn on the light, the last thing that you want to do is be blinded by reflections of light popping off the wall. Sheen is important because each type of sheen is measured by how much light is reflected.

  • 2. Depending upon the different type of sheen I get, does it change my paint color?

Yes it can - but only in appearance. For example: a flat sheen only carries about 5 percent of the light that shines on it, whereas a gloss reflects 50 percent. Flat paint will appear dull, and the gloss paint will appear a vibrant color.

What exactly is the difference between the five different sheens? Well…

  • 1. Flat - Flat paint absorbs light - and it can disguise many surface imperfections. It can hide blemish well, and you can often get by with one coat. I know what you're thinking…

"Well then I guess there isn't any reason for me to read any further…"

Unfortunately there is a downside - flat paint easily gets dirty and it can be hard to wash or scrub without ruing your wall…

  • 2. Eggshell - OK - this is a common sheen. Why? It can hide imperfections, and it reflects slightly more light. It is easier to wash and it can last a long while before a person has to repaint.

  • 3. Satin - Satin is a common sheen and it idea for bathrooms, hallways, kitchens, and kids' rooms. It looks good and it can deal with high-traffic rooms. From personal experience, if you have children - you are going to want to get a satin sheen.

  • 4. Semi gloss - This finish is both full of shine, and it is washable. It reflects approximately 50 percent to the light that it consumes. Some people find it way to shiny - but it has its good point. It is durable! Semi gloss sheen is mostly suited for cabinets, doors, and woodwork.

  • 5. Gloss - Alright ladies and gentleman, here is the last sheen. Gloss is very shiny, and become and looks discomforting on the walls. So I know what you are thinking…

"What is the point then of Gloss?"

Well... it is awesome for utility rooms and playrooms because it can handle a lot of abuse. Other words - if you have children, and you have a playroom - use gloss!

I hope you have enjoyed my helpful tips and I would like to end this article with a very important safety alert…

If you are remodeling a home before 1978 - it is crucial that you have it checked for lead! Lead can be extremely hazardous toward children and it can be hidden beneath one or more top coats of paint in your home.

Here are additional articles written by this contributor:

Brushes and Rollers: Quality Vs. Disposable
Preparing to Paint a Room the Right Way!
The Colorful Language of the Color Wheel