Paint
How to choose paint
Substrate
Substrate first. Pick a material match: wood, metal, plastic, or combos like wood/metal/plastic. Universal options help mixed surfaces but dedicated metal paint beats them on rust control.
Finish
Finish choice. Silk and acrylic resist marks and wipe clean, but they show uneven surfaces. For rough walls, check the product's listed sheen before buying.
Colour
Colour scope. The ten listed hues cover standard rooms. If you need a non-listed shade, this range will not serve you.
Format
Format and sub-type. Building Consumables tins cover walls and large areas. Painting Consumables sprays fit crafts and small items. Hardware aerosols target metal and small fittings. Choose by project scale.
Tier
Tier match. Trade brands suit painters who return often. Consumer or decorative brands like Mylands, Farrow & Ball, Vintro Paint, Craig & Rose and Landlords suit one-off refreshes.
What's good
- You can match the material axis exactly. Paints listed for wood, metal, steel, tin, plastic, or wood/melamine let you coat the substrate without guessing.
- Trade-tier lines from Crown Trade, Leyland Trade, Macpherson, Johnstone's Trade and Dulux Trade give high opacity for repeated professional use. Consumer lines like Dulux or Johnstone's suit a single room refresh.
- The colour axis spans white, blue, green, grey, black, pink, brown, yellow, red and cream. That covers most UK decor schemes without custom mixing.
- Silk and acrylic finishes resist moisture in kitchens and bathrooms. They wipe down after cooking splashes.
- Spray formats under Painting Consumables and Hardware speed up small metal or craft jobs. They reach awkward corners a brush misses.
Things to watch
- Metal and steel formulas need bare, rust-free surfaces. They fail on plastic unless you pick a wood/metal/plastic variant.
- Silk finish paints highlight surface imperfections. They suit smooth furniture, not aged plaster walls.
- Trade lines often ship in larger Building Consumables sizes. A landlord patching one wall may find a smaller consumer tin easier.
- Aerosols in Hardware save time but drift in breeze. Outdoor use needs calm weather and masking.
- Pale cream or white emulsions show grime on touch points. Families with kids may prefer deeper grey or brown on lower walls.
Care & maintenance
Wipe
Wipe silk and acrylic surfaces with a soft damp cloth. Skip scourers that dull the sheen.
Store
Keep tins and tin/cardboard packs sealed. Store at even room temperature to avoid skinning.
Spray care
Shake aerosols before each spray. Clear the nozzle after use so it does not block.
Stir
Stir thick wood and wood/melamine paints before application. This keeps colour even.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I look for when buying paint?
When shopping for paint, consider factors such as quality, price, brand reputation, and customer reviews. Compare prices across multiple retailers to ensure you're getting the best deal. Look for products that match your specific needs and budget.
How do I choose the right paint?
Choosing the right paint depends on your individual needs, budget, and preferences. Research different options, read customer reviews, and compare specifications. Consider what features are most important to you and look for products that offer the best value for money.
Where can I find the best deals on paint?
You can find the best deals on paint by comparing prices across multiple retailers. Our price comparison tool helps you find the lowest prices from trusted UK retailers including Amazon, eBay, and other major online stores. Check regularly as prices and deals change frequently.
Are paint products worth the investment?
The value of paint products depends on your specific needs and how you plan to use them. Quality products from reputable brands often provide better long-term value, even if they cost more initially. Consider your budget and requirements when making your decision.
What's the difference between different types of paint?
Different types of paint vary in features, quality, price, and intended use. Some may offer premium features while others focus on affordability. Research the specific differences between models or brands to find the option that best suits your needs and budget.
