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Gloss paint is the most common choice for painting woodwork. That includes doors, frames, skirting and windows. Modern gloss paints are all water based, with minimal VOC content, and provide the benefits of a hardwearing paint without the drawback of yellowing over time.

What does ‘gloss’ mean and what are its properties?

Gloss refers to how much sheen the finish of the paint has. The higher the sheen level, the more the light will be reflected. The shiniest finish is gloss. Gloss paint is incredibly hardwearing, durable and has a washable finish.

Where can you use gloss paint?

Thanks to its properties, gloss paint is ideal for use in areas of high wear such as interior doors, bannisters, and skirting boards. Gloss can also be used outside, so is an ideal choice for painting your front door. So, if you are looking for exterior paint, gloss should be your go-to choice.

You can also use gloss paint on metal, once it has been suitably primed. Glossing radiators to match woodwork is a popular choice. Most manufacturers will provide guidance on the percentage of ‘gloss’ their paint displays as a guide for how shiny the finish will be, and this is usually between 70-90%.

What are the different types of gloss paint?

There are five different types of gloss paint:

1. Liquid Gloss: Needs an undercoat but gives a high gloss finish and is hardwearing and resistant to dirt. Leave overnight before applying a second coat. The choice for professional decorators.
2. Once Gloss: Single coat paint. Does not need an undercoat if applied over an existing painted surface.
3. Quick Dry Gloss: Self undercoating. Can be recoated in 6 hours.
4. Satinwood: Semi-gloss. Hard-wearing, durable gloss paint with a subtle sheen. Not as hard- wearing as traditional gloss.
5. Eggshell: Gives an on-trend, more matt finish. For use on interior, wood, walls, ceiling and metalwork.

How to use gloss paint

To make sure you’re getting the best finishes, you should follow these steps:

1. Prepare your surface using sandpaper to make sure it is smooth; make sure you clean all of the dust before applying a primer coat.
2. You may need to use an undercoat to seal bare or new surfaces. When painting metal, it is often a good idea to prepare it beforehand with a metal primer.
3. Once you have prepared your surface so that it is ready to paint, you can apply gloss paint with a suitable mini roller or small brush, depending on the size of the area.
4. If necessary, apply a second coat once the paint has dried for a smooth finish.

Regardless of the final coat of paint that you choose for your woodwork, skirting and doors, remember that preparation is key. Meticulous preparation and a good quality undercoat are of the utmost importance when it comes to achieving an attractive, high-quality finish.

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