Explore different types of paints for Indian homes. From budget-friendly options to premium finishes, learn which paint suits your walls, climate, and budget.

Choosing paint for your home is like picking a smartphone - from budget-friendly basics to premium flagships, each has its features, price point, and an ideal user. From wallet-friendly options that get the job done to premium finishes that make your neighbours peek over the wall, let's colour your world with knowledge.

• Overview: Referred to as "budget-friendly paint," distemper is a water-based paint made of chalk, lime, and pigments. It’s been a primary in Indian households for decades and enjoys loyalty.

• Best For: Best used for Interior walls in low-budget projects or temporary spaces.

• Features:

o It is available in dry or paste form.

o These paints offer a matte finish.

• Advantages:

o Very affordable and it is easy to apply.

o These paints are resistant to mild weather changes.

• Challenges:

o They have limited durability and washability.

o It also fades faster when compared to other paints.

• Overview: This is a versatile, water-based paint with superior durability and a smooth finish, making it a popular choice for Indian homes.

• Best For: It can be used for both interiors and exteriors.

• Features:

o These are available in matte, satin, and glossy finishes offering a wide range of choices.

o The walls painted are washable and resistant to mould or fungus.

• Advantages:

o They are usually long-lasting and very easy to clean.

o It also dries quickly and has very low odour.

• Challenges:

o These do not come cheap and are slightly more expensive than distemper.

• Overview: This paint is an oil-based paint that delivers a glossy, hard finish and is ideal for areas that require durability and moisture resistance.

• Best For: It is best for doors, windows, railings, and kitchen/bathroom walls.

• Features:

o It is resistant to stains and water.

o You can also get a glossy or semi-glossy finish.

• Advantages:

o This paint is tough and durable.

o You can use this both for wood and metal surfaces.

• Challenges:

o The paint once applied takes longer to dry.

o It has a strong smell during application.

• Overview: This is a decorative paint that can create unique patterns and finishes like marble, sand, or rustic textures depending on your preferences.

• Best For: You can use this on accent walls, living rooms, or any space where you want to make a statement and impress your guests.

• Features:

o It also can offer a 3D effect on walls.

o These are available in a wide variety of patterns and designs.

• Advantages:

o The patterns and designs adds personality to interiors.

o It is also durable and washable.

• Challenges:

o These are very expensive and you would need skilled labour to paint.

• Overview: These are water-based paint specifically designed for exteriors. It is usually made of white cement, pigments, and additives and it provides a durable finish.

• Best For: Mostly for exterior walls, boundary walls, and rough surfaces.

• Features:

o They are conducive for any kind of weather and are breathable.

o Mostly available in a range of earthy tones.

• Advantages:

o They offer protection against rain and sunlight.

o Much more affordable and last longer.

• Challenges:

o They have limited colour options.

o Also, the rough texture may not be to everyone’s liking.

• Overview: It is a high-quality, water-based paint with excellent colour retention and durability.

• Best For: Used for exterior walls, especially in regions that are used to harsh weather.

• Features:

o These paints are UV-resistant and are water-repellent.

o They are available in multiple finishes offering lots of choices to pick from.

• Advantages:

o You get vibrant colours and the paints are long-lasting.

o They also protect against peeling and flaking.

• Challenges:

o These paints are costlier than standard paints.

• Overview: As the name suggests they are known for its high gloss and durability. They used to popular earlier, but now with the advent of emulsion paints there are very few takers for this.

• Best For: Wooden and metallic surfaces.

• Features:

o Excellent adhesion.

o Highly glossy finish.

• Advantages:

o Provides a smooth, durable finish.

o Resistant to wear and tear.

• Challenges:

o Strong fumes and longer drying time.

• Overview: These paints are usually used for industrial and high-traffic areas due to its superior durability and chemical resistance.

• Best For: They can be best used at homes for garage floors, basements, and kitchens.

• Features:

o It is extremely durable and water-resistant.

o It offers glossy finishes.

• Advantages:

o It can withstand heavy wear and tear.

o These paints are easy to clean and maintain.

• Challenges:

o They can be expensive and require professional workers.

• Overview: This is a specialty paint that is designed to combat moisture-related issues like mould and mildew.

• Best For: It is good for bathrooms, kitchens, and humid regions.

• Features:

o These contain fungicidal additives.

o They are available in various finishes.

• Advantages:

o It offers protection against fungal growth.

o It also enhances indoor air quality.

• Challenges:

o These are slightly more expensive than regular paints.

• Overview: These functional paints are designed to reflect sunlight and keep interiors cooler, perfect for India’s hot climate.

• Best For: Mostly for rooftops and exterior walls in hot regions.

• Features:

o They reflect heat and UV rays and hence the name.

o Mostly available in light shades.

• Advantages:

o It helps reduce indoor temperatures.

o They also save on energy by lowering cooling costs.

• Challenges:

o Very limited availability and has a higher cost.

• Northern India: In this region emulsion and enamel paints are widely used because of extreme weather conditions. These days you have reflective paints that are gaining ground for.

• Southern India: This region has humidity and heavy monsoons too and hence acrylic and anti-fungal paints find favour.

• Western India: Here texture and emulsion paints are commonly used for both style and durability.

• Eastern India: Weather resistance being the primary goal, here cement and anti-fungal paints are the go-to options.

1. Purpose: For interiors, emulsion or texture paints work best. For exteriors, acrylic or cement paints are ideal.

2. Durability: For high-traffic areas, opt for enamel or epoxy paints.

3. Climate: In humid areas, use anti-fungal or acrylic paints. For hot regions, reflective paints are a better choice.

4. Budget: Distemper for cost-saving projects, emulsion for a balance between cost and quality.

Final Thoughts

Painting a home isn’t about splashing a colour. It is about investing in the right kind of aesthetics. It is also about functionality and protection. The right paint will not only decorate your home but also add hues of comfort, personality, and resilience.