How to choose
Choose the finish from surface, wear, moisture, cleaning and sheen instead of colour alone.
Quick answer
Match the coating to the exact surface and room conditions. Higher wipeability or sheen can expose preparation defects, while a specialist claim only applies to the exact product and application system.
Scope: Identify old coatings and suspect materials before disturbing them, then follow the current product instructions for the exact surface.
Four options to compare
Best for: Living spaces where a flatter appearance and disguising minor surface variation matter.
Main trade-off: Some low-sheen products are less tolerant of repeated scrubbing.
Must check: Exact cleanability claim, surface preparation and previous coating.
Best for: Hallways, family rooms or other areas needing repeated cleaning.
Main trade-off: Extra sheen and toughness can make poor preparation more visible.
Must check: Documented scrub/wash claim, primer and cure before cleaning.
Best for: Rooms with higher condensation or staining where the exact coating supports that exposure.
Main trade-off: Paint cannot solve an unresolved leak, ventilation or persistent damp problem.
Must check: Moisture source, ventilation, mould treatment boundary and product system.
Best for: Trim, radiators, bare metal, masonry or another non-wall surface.
Main trade-off: Using a wall finish can cause adhesion or durability failure.
Must check: Substrate, existing coating, primer, temperature and recoat schedule.
Repair leaks and unstable surfaces first. On older coatings, consider lead before sanding or stripping and use a suitable preparation method.
Coverage changes by product, surface and application. Use the declared figure from the tin or technical sheet in the paint calculator.
What this guide cannot check
Do not claim universal safety, guaranteed suitability, professional approval or permission to undertake protected work. Check current instructions, exact identifiers and local circumstances before acting.