CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA (CVILLE RIGHT NOW) – Thinking about tackling a new painting project? While it might seem as simple as picking a color, there are many factors to consider to ensure a beautiful and long-lasting finish. To help homeowners navigate these choices, we sat down with Marcus Freeman, the Paint & Sales Specialist at Cardinal Home Center.
Marcus’s first piece of advice is fundamental: “Choosing a good quality product that is the right product for the right job.” It’s a simple rule that can save you a lot of time and frustration. But why is it so important to choose a top-tier paint, and why does Cardinal Home Center proudly carry Benjamin Moore?
Why We Choose Benjamin Moore
At Cardinal Home Center, we’ve made a deliberate choice to carry Benjamin Moore paints because we believe in their superior quality and performance. Benjamin Moore is known for its incredible color depth and durability. Their paints apply smoothly, offer exceptional hide, and provide a lasting finish that stands up to the demands of everyday life. This means less work for you in the long run and a result you’ll be proud of for years to come. Beyond the paint itself, Benjamin Moore is a leader in innovation, offering specific formulations for different projects. Whether you’re painting a high-traffic hallway, a humid bathroom, or an exterior surface, there’s a Benjamin Moore product designed for that exact purpose. Their commitment to quality ensures that no matter what you’re painting, you’re using a product that will deliver professional-grade results.
Picking the Perfect Sheen
One of the most common questions homeowners have is about paint sheen. Sheen refers to the gloss level of the dried paint, and it plays a huge role in both the look and durability of your walls. Here’s how Marcus breaks it down:
- Matte: This finish has a non-reflective surface that helps to hide imperfections. It’s perfect for low-traffic areas like dining rooms or ceilings where you want a smooth, rich color without any shine.
- Eggshell or Pearl/Satin: These are excellent choices for interior walls, especially in high-traffic areas like living rooms, bedrooms, or hallways. They offer a subtle luster that makes them easy to clean, a key benefit for homes with kids or pets. The slight sheen also adds a touch of sophistication to the space.
- Semi-Gloss and Gloss: These sheens are highly reflective and very durable. They are ideal for trim, doors, and cabinets, where you need a finish that is easy to wipe clean and can withstand a lot of wear and tear.” For easy cleanup, choose Eggshell or Pearl/Satin finish for interior walls,” Marcus shares. “For hiding imperfections, a Matte finish is the sheen for you.
It’s All in the Prep
Even the best paint won’t perform well without proper preparation. According to Marcus, taking the time to prepare your surfaces is the most critical step.
“Before you even think about opening a paint can, you need to clean your walls,” he advises…