9 Best Paint for Wood 2023|Expert Advice

Paint has come a long way since it was first invented, and it’s no longer just used to color walls. 

Today there are many different types of paint that can be used to coat anything from fences and floors to wood furniture and even concrete countertops. 

Any wood project may be transformed from finished to flawless with the appropriate paint. But, in order for that to happen, you must first understand what type of paint to use on wood.

Ideally, this is determined by the sort of job you’re working on, the type of wood involved, the surface condition of the wood, and your particular preferences.

Still, some paint works better than others on certain surfaces, so before you start painting, make sure you know what type of paint to use on the surface you’re covering, and this guide will help you with all of your options.

What Kind of Paint Can I Use on Wood?

Paint with a high-gloss or semi-gloss sheen is typically the best for use on wood. The smoother, nonporous finish makes it easier to clean and repels moisture than absorbing it. As a result, these paint coats do not fade or weather with time.

However, causal factors such as your project requirements can make using a different kind of paint inevitable. So the essential thing is to understand your project to determine what works best for you.

How to Choose the Right Paint for Your Wood Project

There are several types of paint available for various uses. This implies that there is no such thing as a one-size-fits-all paint.

Furthermore, the market includes hundreds of companies with competing products, so knowing how to sort out the remainder to find your best option is critical.
That being said, here’s some advice on selecting the best paint for your need.

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1. Consider the location

Is your project taking place inside or outside the home? This may seem apparent, but it is critical to verify that the paint you select is particularly developed for that area.

Exterior grade paints are often flexible and UV resistant. This adaptability may not be appropriate for indoor applications. Such a paint finish may lack the strength and scratch resistance needed for indoor use.

Similarly, interior paint will not last outside. They are made to be rigid and strong enough to withstand the constant impact of indoor environments.

They lack the flexibility and weather resistance essential for outdoor use. So, if your job will take place indoors, make sure the paint is designed for that purpose.

Similarly, if you have an outdoor project, ensure the paint is specifically designed for exterior use.

2. Think about the shine level you desire.

This is frequently determined by personal tastes. If you desire a lustrous finish, consider using oil-based or enamel paint. Oil paints are inherently lustrous and do not require a finish to maintain their luster.

If you want a matte finish, there are several water-based solutions available. Milk paint or chalk paint is the finest choice for an antique or rustic look.

So, first, decide on the sheen you want, then look for a paint kind that gives that.

3. Consider what you are painting

The type of paint you may use on your project is directly determined by its nature. While certain paints are specially developed to operate on a variety of surfaces, some wood projects will benefit from specific paint types—regardless of your personal tastes.

The Best Paint for Wood

1. Benjamin Moore Advance Interior Paint

Benjamin Moore Advance Interior Paint is the best paint on the market, it has a low odor and is available in a wide range of colors, plus, it’s easy to clean up when you’re done painting. 

2. KILZ Casual Colors

KILZ Casual Colors is a paint brand that delivers the quality and performance of premium paint at an affordable price. 

This means that you can get the look you want without spending more than you have to. KILZ has been in business since 1935, so they know what they’re doing when it comes to delivering high-quality products. 

KILZ offers exterior oil-based paints that are designed to protect against UV rays, acid rain, weathering, dirt, bird droppings, and tree sap, their eggshell finish will help reduce fading from sunlight 

Also, KILZ paint provides color consistency so there’s no need to worry about light variations or unanticipated surprises

3. Rust-Oleum Universal All Surface Spray Paint

Rust-Oleum Universal All Surface Spray Paint is one of the best paints for wood because it can be used to transform an old piece of furniture or update a new piece. 

It has great coverage, dries fast, and is easy to use. There are many different colors available so you can find the perfect shade for your project, and it is available in a variety of finishes including semi-gloss, satin, and matte.

4. Valspar Simplicity

The Valspar Simplicity is a water-based, acrylic-latex paint that is available in both matte and satin finishes, it provides great coverage with fewer coats, leaves no odor, and cleans up easily with soap and water. 

The paint is also environmentally friendly, contains zero volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and can be used on any surface inside or outside the home. 

The only downside to this paint is that it cannot be applied in extreme heat or cold and should not be used on vertical surfaces. If you are looking for an affordable option with high-quality performance, then the Valspar Simplicity may be what you’re looking for.

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5. Zinsser Cover Stain

Zinsser Cover Stain is a polyurethane and water-based primer in one, which provides excellent protection and durability. It has been specifically designed to protect against moisture and can be used as a stain or paint. 

Zinsser Cover Stain does not yellow, crack, peel or blister and is the perfect choice for kitchen cabinets, doors, molding, trim, and exterior wood surfaces.

The Cover Stain can be used on any indoor or outdoor wood surface. It can also be used on other household products such as stoneware, ceramic tile, and Formica.

6. Sherwin-Williams ProClassic

The Sherwin-Williams ProClassic is a water-based paint that will not lift or peel. ProClassic has long-lasting durability and can be used on most surfaces like wood, metal, brick, concrete, and stucco. 

The ProClassic is available in flat, semi-gloss, or high gloss and comes in more than 100 colors. The color gamut includes hues of reds, oranges, yellows, blues, and greens to name just a few.

 This water-based paint features a protective polyurethane additive to provide maximum resistance against stains and damage. It’s also the best primer when preparing new drywall and other substrates. 

When it dries, the Sherwin-Williams ProClassic provides an attractive look with minimal maintenance required, making this a good option for those who don’t want to spend time scrubbing away dirt and dust. 

Those who have pets that roam around their home would find this product beneficial because it’s resistant to scuffs and scratches from pet claws. 

While this paint might seem expensive at first glance, the cost is actually comparable to any other higher-quality paint out there today so you’ll get what you pay for.

7. BEHR Premium Plus

BEHR Premium Plus is a great paint to use on wood surfaces. It comes in a variety of colors, and is easy to apply and maintain. The best part is that it will protect your wood from water, mildew, insects, and rot. 

BEHR Premium Plus also has excellent coverage power, so you only need one coat to do the job, as well as being energy-star rated. 

But because this type of paint can be more expensive than other types, it may not be ideal for someone who’s looking for a bargain. 

There are other great brands out there that are less expensive than BEHR Premium Plus, however, some people prefer Behr Marquee or Sherwin Williams ProClassic Semi-Gloss if they’re looking for something with a lower price tag.

8. Glidden Duo

Glidden Duo is the perfect match of high-performance, low-VOC paint, and primer in one. It’s VOC compliant and offers a tough, durable finish that will stand up to years of wear and tear plus, it’s available in a variety of colors so you can customize your space. 

Glidden Duo is available at most hardware stores nationwide, so it’s easy to find and afford and since there are no harsh solvents, it’s safe to use around children and pets.

 This coating is one of children’s and pets’ favorites because it’s environmentally friendly, long-lasting, and easy to use, and it gives an amazing appearance on any surface type. 

Glidden Duo has been proven to provide protection against mold, mildew, and moisture as well as resist peeling or cracking! With all these benefits it’s no wonder that this product has been ranked as America’s number 1 best-selling paint in its category for three straight years.

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9. Olympic Maximum

Olympic Maximum is a great paint brand because it is easy to use, water-based and eco-friendly. This paint can be used on any type of surface and requires only one coat. It also has a low odor which is important if you are painting indoors or around children. 

Olympic Maximum also has an outstanding warranty, guaranteeing the paint’s quality for up to 12 years, providing peace of mind in knowing that your new paint job will last. 

The pigments in this paint contain no harmful solvents, making it safe for even the youngest family members to enjoy. 

So, whether you’re looking for exterior paint or something with more vibrant colors like this grapefruit hue from Olympic Maximum pictured above you’re sure to find just what you’re looking for.

Tips for Painting Wood

Even if you have the perfect paint for the task, you must still undertake the process correctly to achieve the intended results. Here are some pointers to help you get started on the right foot.

1. Always apply a primer

Priming the wood before painting aids in adherence. A primer’s purpose is to improve the adhesion and durability of the paint. You want your paint work to last, and a primer may help you get there.

Some paints are built to last longer than others. Regardless of whether the wood is finished or unfinished, it helps to apply a primer to let the coat last longer. Such outcomes help you save time and money in the long term.

2. Follow the grain’s direction.

When sanding, staining, or painting wooden surfaces, always follow the grain. There’s a reason behind this. It ensures that any markings made or left throughout the painting are parallel to the wood grain.

As a result, they blend in as part of the grain pattern. This is an excellent method for producing professional-looking results.

3. Use only high-quality brushes.

The quality of your equipment has a direct impact on the outcome of your paint job. High-quality brushes perform admirably and last a long time.

They are especially important for applying oil-based paints, which do not work well with paint rollers.

The last thing you want is a paintbrush with broken bristle fragments all over your craft. This might make the task more difficult and the end less than ideal.

4. Add a protective coat

Some paint types, such as oil-based varieties, are naturally glossy and durable. However, chalk paint and other matte finishes are not as glossy and maybe less durable without a protective topcoat.

So always add a clear coat on top of such paint coats to prolong their service lives. 

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FAQ

What is the most durable wood paint?

Gloss paint is a type of paint that has a high sheen and is also extremely durable. It can be used on wood, metal, or plastic. The finish will not change when it is exposed to UV light or heat, so it’s perfect for outdoor furniture. 

Gloss paint is available in many colors and finishes, so you’ll be able to find the perfect paint color that matches your home decor. If you’re looking for water-based gloss paint, choose acrylic gloss enamel. 

Acrylic gloss enamel can be applied to both porous and non-porous surfaces without priming them first. You’ll want to use gloss paint if you want your furniture or other items made from wood to stand up better against scratches, rainwater, and other elements from the outside.

What paint gives the smoothest finish?

Semi-gloss and gloss paints give the smoothest finish. These paints are the most popular and durable of all paint finishes because they are more hard-wearing than other types of paint. 

They also provide a nice, smooth surface which is perfect for high-traffic areas like hallways and staircases. Semi-gloss and gloss paints come in a wide range of colors too, so you’re guaranteed to find one that’s just right for your home. 

However, it’s important not to use these paints on surfaces that need to be washed regularly as dirt can build up easily on glossy paint. 

Glossy paints should only be used on woodwork or plasterboard walls because they will absorb any water or moisture in the air and become damaged over time.

What paint do most professionals use?

Sherwin-Williams or Benjamin Moore paints are great options. They’ve been around for a long time, and are reliable, and long-lasting. 

There are many different colors available from them as well as a range of finishes, and on average, their prices are lower than those of other paint companies. 

How do you get crisp lines when painting on wood?

One way to do this is by using paint with low viscosity and an additive that will make the paint dry slower. 

Another way to get crisp lines on wood is to use several coats of paint and sanding in between, or you can use stencils. 

Once you have chosen which technique you want to use, here are some of the best paints for wood, recommended by experts.

Another option for crisp lines on your wooden surface is to use natural oils as opposed to oil-based acrylics, all you need is to apply these oils once, as they stay intact for long periods of time and work well when used over varnishes that have begun to age.

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What paint do builders use?

Flat paint is the go-to paint for homeowners and builders alike, with a flat finish, you don’t have to worry about fingerprints, water spots, or other marks detracting from the beauty of your hard work also, Flat paint also has an anti-graffiti formula that prevents it from being scribbled on by vandals.

Why do painters use flat paint?

Painters use flat paint to cover walls that have flaws or blemishes and it is ideal for these types of walls because it lays down a smooth finish and can be easily touched up when needed.

What happens if you paint wood without a primer?

Paint without primer will not adhere to your wood, and there will be a blotchy look, most times the result is that the pores of the woodwork unevenly absorb the paint, which results in a blotchy surface. 

And the downside is that it does take some time to dry before you can move onto the next step if you are painting a large surface like an entire piece of furniture or flooring.

How do you paint wood without leaving brush strokes?

The best way to paint a piece of wood without leaving brush strokes is to use a misting bottle, as this prevents the paint from drying too quickly and leaves no marks on the surface. 

And it’s also important to sand the wood before painting, especially if it’s been previously painted or stained, in order to remove any old sealant that may be hiding in the cracks between the wood pieces.

If you’re trying to create a more subtle effect, then you’ll want to use an oil-based primer first before applying your choice of paint finish as it’ll provide a smoother look than water-based primers do.

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Conclusion

There are many different types of paint out there to choose from, but not all of them are appropriate for wood, it’s, however, important to do your research and find the paint that is best suited for your needs.

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