• They provide even light reflection, to give the surface a softer, more uniform look.

• They don't highlight surface imperfections like higher sheen paints, so they usually don't require as much surface preparation (like patching, texturing or sanding) prior to painting.

• They are much less likely to show 'lap marks', so they are generally easier to apply and touch-up than higher sheen paints. (When one painted section dries before the next section is painted, the two sections won't flow together into a uniform film, resulting in a 'lap mark'.)

• They don't need to be sanded or deglossed before repainting, unlike higher sheen paints.

What are the disadvantages of flat and lower sheen paints?

• They are less stain and scuff resistant than higher sheen paints, so they should not be recommended for high-traffic areas or on surfaces that will be handled, washed or scrubbed frequently.

• They are less washable and less moisture resistant than higher sheen finishes, so they are not the best choice for areas that are exposed to high humidity levels, or on surfaces that will be washed frequently.

• They have better stain resistance, so they resist dirt pick-up and stay cleaner longer.

• They have better scuff and wear resistance, so they're good for high traffic areas and on surfaces that are handled, washed or scrubbed frequently.

• They have better moisture resistance, which makes them ideal for surfaces and areas that are frequently exposed to high humidity levels.

• They have a smooth, bright, more lustrous finish that some people prefer.

• They tend to highlight any surface imperfections, so more surface preparation (like patching, texturing or sanding) will usually be needed before painting.

• They are harder to touch-up than lower sheen paints, because the higher sheen tends to highlight the slightly raised surface of the film where the touch-up was done.

• They usually need to be sanded, deglossed or primed prior to repainting, to ensure good adhesion of the new paint.

How to select interior color

• Light colors will help lighten a dark or poorly-lighted room, and provide a psychological lift. Light colors also make walls and ceilings appear to be further away, and can be used to make small rooms appear larger and more open.

• Dark colors can give a room a dramatic look, and create a sense of intimacy. They can also make walls and ceilings appear to be closer, and can be used to make a large room appear smaller and more cozy.

• Bright, vibrant colors will give the room a cheerful feel, and a sense of excitement. Reds, yellows and oranges are warm colors. When these colors are used in a room, they make the walls appear closer, creating the illusion of a smaller room. Violets, blues and greens are cool colors. When these colors are used in a room, they make the walls appear farther away, creating the illusion of a larger room.

• Tans, greys, and off-whites tend not to attract attention, and can be used to create a restful, relaxing atmosphere. They are also easier to coordinate with other colors in the room. For long, narrow rooms, paint the shorter walls a darker color. This will make these walls appear closer together, so the room will seem less like a tunnel.

• For square rooms, paint one wall a different color, preferably the wall first seen when entering the room. This will give the room a more dramatic look and make it seem less 'boxy'.

  What are the advantages of latex paints?

• They have a less objectionable odor, which makes them good for repaints and painting in occupied areas, where solvent odor is an issue. They clean up with soap and water; there's no need to work with hazardous and/or flammable solvents, and no used solvent to dispose of afterwards.

• Latex paints dry faster, and can be recoated sooner; this makes them a good choice for painting in occupied areas, where someone might touch or brush up against the freshly painted surface.

• Latex paint binders hold up better in sun-exposed areas, because they're more resistant to UV (ultraviolet) radiation; alkyd and oil binders will absorb more of this radiation and break down more quickly.

• Latex paint films are less prone to yellowing over time, especially with white, light off-white and pastel colors.

• Latex paint films are more breathable; they allow small amounts of water vapor to pass through the film, so the chance of blistering is reduced. This is especially important when the surface being painted is slightly damp.

• Latex paint films have better gloss and color retention, so they'll keep a 'like-new' appearance longer. Latex paint films are more elastic, so they can expand and contract with the substrate better; this means they'll be less likely to crack and peel over time.

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