08/12/2015
Points to ponder while choosing a paint for your home:
Research color choices ahead of time.
If you're trying to match a color you find — whether it's on a piece of clothing, photo, or coffee mug, just bring that item to the paint store. Most large retail stores have paint matching machines that will do the work for you.
To avoid multiple trips to the hardware store, make sure you buy supplies you might need ahead of time. This includes canvas to cover flooring, plastic to cover windows, painters tape, and a fan for ventilation. If you are using an oil-based paint, you may also need a cleaning solvent to clean up brushes, pans, and inevitable spills.
Consider low or no-VOC paint (volatile organic compound). They have environmental benefits plus they are a wise choice if you're sensitive to fumes or your home has poor ventilation. Be aware that although the base paint is low or no-VOC, adding colorant may add VOCs.
When choosing a finish, consider how the space you are painting is going to be used and the location of the room. Mold and mildew-resistant paints are best for kitchens, bathrooms, and damp basements. If you are painting a child's play area, look for scratch and stain resistant paints. Paints come in several finishes (matte, flat enamel, eggshell, satin, semi-gloss, or glossy). As a general rule, the glossier the paint, the more noticeable imperfections are.
Buy a small 4oz sample of the color you're considering and see what it looks like in you home with your lighting. It will be different from how it looks in the store.
