From samples to the right paint for the job
Perhaps you have stood in the paint aisle staring at the paint chips on display, wondering what to do next. Well, you are not alone. For many homeowners, choosing a paint color is one of the biggest and most controversial decisions relating to a home purchase. Paint chips are intended to provide a visual sample so a homeowner or renter can take a sample of the color without taking the plunge by having to buy the paint. The issue in many instances is the paint chips are too small to give the purchaser a true prediction of whether or not the color will be a winner or flop.
The paint aisle
In nearly all home improvement stores, the paint aisles are divided by brand and in many instances, type. Exterior paints are specifically formulated to withstand the elements and formulated differently than paints intended for interior use.
What’s in a name?
Once you have selected the type of paint you are looking for, the next step is to select a brand. Do your research and read reviews. One of the biggest differentiators is price. There can often be quite a difference in price, and a higher price does not always mean higher quality.
Matching color
In many ways color isn’t as much of a factor as it used to be. This is in large part because with an increase in technology, many brands as well as home improvement stores can “match” color. The matched color can be created from the smallest of samples, including the tiny dot often placed on top of paint cans.
The right finish
Selecting a finish will likely be your final step. In general, the higher the gloss, the easier it is to wipe. If you have brandnew walls, however, a flat finish may be your best choice for a beautiful smooth finish.
In many instances, home improvement stores will sell you small sample pots that will allow you to test the color in your space at low cost. Some brands provide large samples.