The Best Paint to Use on Bathroom Walls: Moisture-Resistant Options
When it comes to painting bathroom walls, the right paint is crucial. Bathrooms are high-moisture environments, and using the wrong paint can lead to issues like mold, mildew, and peeling. In our last house in Elgin, we alwasy had issues where the walls looked ike they were crying. Lines of moisture kept runnning down the walls, like on a window after it rained.
Here is an older video about this issue
There are moisture-resistant paints designed specifically for bathrooms. We have used both. They were used in our home and in customers homes.
Understanding Bathroom Paint Needs
Bathrooms are exposed to high humidity and water splashes, especially around the shower, tub, and sink areas. This environment requires paint that can withstand moisture without degrading.
This may mean you need to do some work like use an oil primer over prevously damaged walls. You will also need to plan on not using your shower for 48 hours.
Types of Moisture-Resistant Paints
There are several types of paints that are suitable for bathroom walls, each offering different levels of moisture resistance and durability. Here are the most recommended options:
- Acrylic Eggshell Paint
- Satin and Semi-Gloss Paint
- Mold- and Mildew-Resistant Paint
- High-Gloss Paint
Acrylic Eggshell Paint
Acrylic eggshell paint is a popular choice for bathroom walls due to its balance between durability and aesthetics. It has a slight sheen that resists moisture better than flat paints, yet it is not as shiny as semi-gloss paint, making it an attractive option for most homeowners.
Satin and Semi-Gloss Paint
Satin and semi-gloss paints are excellent choices for bathrooms because of their superior moisture resistance and ease of cleaning. Semi-gloss paint is particularly effective in repelling water, making it ideal for high-splash areas.
Mold- and Mildew-Resistant Paint
Specifically formulated for high-moisture environments, mold- and mildew-resistant paints contain antimicrobial agents that prevent the growth of mold and mildew. These paints are available in various sheens, allowing for flexibility in design choices.
High-Gloss Paint
High-gloss paint offers the best moisture resistance and is incredibly easy to clean, making it an ideal choice for areas exposed to a lot of water. However, its shiny finish can be too reflective for some homeowners’ tastes.
Top Paint Brands for Bathrooms
Several paint brands are known for their high-quality, moisture-resistant paints. Here are some of the best options:
Benjamin Moore Aura® Bath and Spa
Benjamin Moore’s Aura® Bath and Spa is specifically designed for high-humidity environments. This matte finish paint resists mildew and provides a smooth, rich appearance without the shine of higher-sheen paints.
Pros:
- Matte finish suitable for bathrooms
- Excellent moisture resistance
- Low VOC and environmentally friendly
Cons:
- Higher price point
In using Aura paint in bathroom, we have had mixed results. We could not prove one way or another, but each time there was an issue when we painted a shower- kids used the shower- no fan and hot steamy shower, which did lead to paint failure. ( the showered within 8 hours of us painting!)
Sherwin-Williams Duration Home®
Sherwin-Williams’ Duration Home® is a premium paint that offers superior durability and moisture resistance. It contains antimicrobial agents to prevent mold and mildew and is available in a variety of sheens, including satin and semi-gloss.
Pros:
- Long-lasting and durable
- Resists moisture and stains
- Mildew-resistant formula
- Made with a plastic
Cons:
- Higher than paints at big box stores, lower than Aura
Tips for Painting Bathroom Walls
When painting your bathroom walls, following the right preparation and application techniques can make a significant difference in the durability and appearance of the paint job. Here are some tips:
- Prep the Surface: Clean the walls thoroughly to remove any dirt, soap scum, or mildew. Repair any cracks or holes and sand the surface for a smooth finish.
- Use Primer: Apply a moisture-resistant primer to ensure better adhesion and longer-lasting results. This may mean you need to use an oil primer.
- Apply Multiple Coats: Two coats of paint are usually sufficient, but in high-moisture areas, an additional coat may provide extra protection.
- Ventilation: Ensure proper ventilation during and after painting to help the paint dry faster and reduce humidity levels.
Other Help with Painting?
Choosing the best paint for your bathroom walls involves considering factors like moisture resistance, ease of cleaning, and durability, but it can raise quetions.
Whether you prefer the subtle sheen of acrylic eggshell, the high moisture resistance of semi-gloss, or the specialized protection of mold-resistant paint, there are plenty of options available to suit your needs, but again- questions can come up.
But we are here to help-
For more information on paint products and services, you can visit the Sherwin-Williams website or the Benjamin Moore website.
