Are you building a new home or space but need ideas on finishing your walls? Or do you ever look at your home’s or office’s walls and wish they looked more eye-catching or appealing? If you answered yes to either of these questions, a particular type of paint may just help solve your design dilemmas.
Enter glossy paint that can be applied to walls and wooden surfaces like trim, cabinet doors, and furniture. For many years, industry experts have recommended glossy finish paint because it has a distinct shine and sheen to it, perfect for homeowners looking to add some style to their space alongside other characteristics.
You can find multiple types of gloss paint on the market, with finishes that can range from very subtle (eggshell), to silky (satin), to downright shiny (high-gloss).
Switch up the vibe of your home or office today with the help of reliable glossy paint. Learn more about the benefits of this type of paint and how you can seamlessly apply it to surfaces. Plus, if your walls are looking a little flat, learn how to make matte paint appear glossy.
Why Glossy Paint Is a Go for Your Project
So what makes glossy paint stand out from other types of paint anyway? Here is a rundown of some of the benefits linked to it:
- Ability to reflect light around a room: Glossy paints have a shine or sheen to them, which allows the product to bounce light in a room. Because of this, some rooms that are small in dimension can feel larger.
- Durability: The combination of products found in glossy paint creates a mixture that helps resist water, dirt, and other contaminants. Glossy paint can even withstand bumps, scrapes, and scratches from furniture pieces that are being moved or even from beloved pets. Because of these qualities, high-gloss paint is a good choice for high-traffic areas in homes.
- Ease of clean-up: If you are looking for paint that does not have to be constantly cleaned up, glossy paint is the choice for you. Many glossy paints offer between 60% and 85% sheen, and surfaces painted with them can be easily washed or wiped if they become dirty. This way, they can maintain their shine and look as good as new (even when they are not).
- Offers water resistance: Glossy paints contain binders that result in stronger bonds and help shield the surface against water and moisture. This feature is one reason why glossy paint is often recommended for bathrooms, washrooms, and kitchens.
- Achieves a polished and modern aesthetic: If you are aiming for a specific look that is luxurious, classy, and glamorous, then this paint is for you. Expertly applied glossy paint, whether it’s white, blue, or any other available color, delivers an intense color and a bold finish to your walls. However, if you don’t want your space to be all glossy, you can still use this type of paint as an accent wall or apply it to other focal points of the room like stair banisters and woodwork.
- Ability to pair well with other paint finishes: This type of paint is said to pair well with paints that have matte or semi-gloss finishes.
How to Apply Glossy Paint Like a Pro!
If you are keen on using glossy paint for your home, take note of this step-by-step guide regarding application:
- Use sandpaper to wipe the surface you are working with. Once done, double-check for and clean dust, dirt, or other imperfections on the surface. Let the surface dry properly.
- Prepare the surface for glossy paint application using a high-quality paint primer. Thoroughly read package instructions regarding application, drying time, and product storage.
- Once the primer has dried, you can apply preferred glossy paint. Use a brush, roller, or spray to apply glossy paint to the surface. Read product instructions and take note of drying times and paint-to-thinner ratios.
However, if you only have matte or flat paints on hand, but have changed your mind and want a glossy paint finish instead, don’t worry. You can transform matte paint into glossy paint by combining two types of lacquer:
- Mix 10% to 20% of Island Chemicals Apollo Dead Flat Lacquer with 80% to 90% of Island Chemicals Apollo Clear Gloss Lacquer in a large container.
- Stir the resulting mixture thoroughly until you reach the desired glossiness or sheen.
- If you want more shine, add more of the clear gloss lacquer gradually. Test and mix as you go.
On the other hand, if flat paint has been applied to the surface, you can still make it glossy with the help of the Apollo Clear Gloss Lacquer. Sand first the surface and apply one to two coats of Apollo Clear Gloss Lacquer over the surface. Follow package instructions. Remember to always check the compatibility of the existing coating with the glossy clear coat you intend to use for overcoating.
On a final note, whether you are working with glossy paint, flat paint, varnish, or all of the above, wear proper safety gear like face masks, goggles, and gloves. These products do contain some chemicals that can be harmful to the body when inhaled or irritate the skin. After you are done using these products, take note of proper storage and/or disposal guidelines that will help keep you and the environment safe. If you have questions, ask an industry expert who can help you with the ins and outs of glossy paint as well.
Get ready to go for the gloss and add some sparkle to your rooms with expertly applied glossy paint! With Island Chemicals products, you can create a unique space that is equal parts impressive and long-lasting. Check out these insightful tips that can help you expertly decorate and transform your home today.
References:
https://www.homesandgardens.com/interior-design/paint/gloss-paint-guide
https://www.houselogic.com/remodel/painting-lighting/paint-sheen-guide/
https://www.housebeautiful.com/home-remodeling/interior-designers/g26802172/what-is-high-gloss-paint
https://www.hunker.com/13412950/how-to-make-flat-paint-shiny
https://shorelinepaintingct.com/blog/benefits-of-high-gloss-paint/
https://woodworkingclarity.com/how-to-make-matte-paint-glossy/