While most interior painting is relatively straight forward, you may need to take more consideration of paint finishes and account for other factors when it comes to painting a bathroom. In fact, moisture is the biggest factor to consider with bathroom paint jobs, and one that should dictate your choice of paint finishes. Regardless of what moisture-resistant features may be included in your bathroom—backsplashes, ceiling heater, fans, vents, watertight shower doors, tiling, etc.—moisture is going to collect on your bathroom walls. The moisture on a painted wall or trim can prove problematic should it be allowed to linger and promote the formation of mold and mildew.

Picking the Right Type of Paint Finish for Your Bathroom

As with paint finishes in general, there are a wide variety of choices to consider. The following list covers the bases, while describing any pros and cons with regard to using each in a bathroom:

Flat/Matte—This finish should be completely avoided in bathrooms because it absorbs moisture and is generally difficult to clean.

Eggshell—While providing some luster, as well as some interesting texture, eggshell finishes can be difficult to clean and do not repel moisture or mildew. That is, unless you want to spend extra (see below) for specialty bathroom paint in this finish.

Satin—With some gloss and limited water absorption properties, satin finishes can be used in bathrooms designed with low humidity features.

Semi-Gloss—These finishes repel moisture and are easy to clean, making them among the best choices for bathroom walls.

High-Gloss—More water repellent and cleanable than semi-gloss; however, high-gloss finishes tend to highlight imperfections and generally don’t look very good on large surfaces. Use this one for the trim work.

Specialty Bathroom Paint—many paint companies offer finishes designed specifically for bathrooms through the addition of moisture-resistant and anti-microbial additives. These paints are more expensive than regular paint finishes, but the added peace of mind may be worth the cost.

Bathroom Paint Colors and Other Considerations

In picking paint colors for your bathroom, consider how the color will accent the finishes of your bathroom fixtures, flooring and tiles. The right coordination can make your bathroom a work of art. However, make sure that the colorful artistry of your chosen bathroom paint does not impact how you might look in the mirror’s reflection. In short, and depending in part upon the lighting, some colors can change the appearance of your reflection in the mirror, which in turn could negatively impact the application of makeup or other personal grooming efforts. For this reason, neutral colors, such as whites, creams, pastels, and grays often work best with bathroom mirror imagery considerations.

Now It’s Time to Get Down to the Actual Work of Painting

Once you have concluded planning, it’s time to get down to the actual task of bathroom painting. Valspar Paints has a 13-point step-by-step guide that covers every detail needed to successfully paint any bathroom. Alternatively, you could turn to a professional interior painting company and let them attend to this detailed work. Naples, Florida-based FCI Painting has extensive experience painting home interiors, including bathrooms, in southwest Florida. FCI painting professionals are aware of all of the potential complications involved with painting a bathroom and can ensure that your bathroom receives a beautiful, long-lasting, durable finish. To learn more about how FCI Painting can help you with all of your residential painting needs, contact us today or give us a call at (239) 435-1001.