Specialist paint for your home

Some household surfaces and materials need more than just regular paint – find out about specialist paints and why you might need to use them here.

Specialist paints are now
available for your home

Painting is one of the best ways to instantly refresh or redesign your property, both inside and out - it’s always a quick, relatively cheap and easy home improvement project. There are also a huge variety of paint types and colours available, making the choice more confusing. The most commonly used paints are:

Emulsion paint – a thick water based substance which is good for ceilings and walls because it’s easy to use and dries quickly. Emulsion paint also comes in matt or silk finish according to the look you want to achieve.

Solvent based paint – is less used now in its original form as it contains volatile organic compounds (VOCs) which are harmful to the environment and to health. EU law now regulates levels of VOCs in paint and new natural or eco-paints are becoming a popular alternative.

Water based paint – isn’t harmful and is an easy to apply, fast drying option. Water based paints tend to be thinner than other types, so you will need more than one coat though.

Apart from these main types of paint, specialist options are available such as:

Metal paints – bituminous paints are ideal for metal materials and surfaces like aluminium window frames, iron gutters, pipes, tanks and railings. This type of paint resists water so doesn’t rust.

Wood/micro porous paint – although regular paint or gloss can be applied to wood, specialist options are also available. Micro porous paints are particularly good for untreated wood as it resists moisture while also allowing wood to breathe. Wood, especially that found on the outside of your property, needs to be regularly sealed to prevent rotting.

Floor paints - special paints which are suitable for concrete, uPVC or wooden floor surfaces are available.

Hire an experienced painter
for best results

Painting radiators – normal metal paints can be used, but specific radiator paints are tougher and offer a higher heat resistance. When painting your radiator always make sure it is cool and don’t switch it back on until the paint has completely dried.

Heat resistant paints – similar to radiator paints, these can be applied to areas and appliances which sustain high levels of heat such as boilers, chimneys or BBQs.

Fire resistant paint – helps to repel flames.

Cost of hiring a painter

For best results it’s a good idea to hire a professional painter, whatever your painting requirements may be. They will be able to advise you on the best kinds of paint to use and carry out the work safely, efficiently and to a high standard. Always check reference and insurance credentials before you hire and get at least three quotes for the work. Home painting work is usually quoted as a lump sum, although it can be charged as a rate per hour or day, and will vary depending on the scale of the project and the type of paint you use.