• Knowing which paint to use on your interior and exterior of your house is essential to getting the result you're looking for. When you visit the paint store, you will be faced with a lot of decisions, so knowing your options will help save time and a possibly frustrating situation. Most paint stores will divide your paint options into interior and exterior paints to make it easy to browse and choose the appropriate paint for your project. Different areas of your house will require different types of paints and finishes to optimize the paints potential.
  
  

Interior Low Sheen

• When you paint the interior of your house, you may want to use a low sheen, low gloss paint finish commonly called a flat finish. Use a flat finish in places where you don't want any shine in the paint, such as the ceilings, low traffic areas on the walls and other places where you are trying to hide a blemish in the wall. Flat paint is very difficult to clean so it is not recommended to use a low sheen in high traffic areas, such as the kitchen or a play room. Flat paint will also show water stains if it gets wet.
  
  

Interior Medium to High Sheen

• Medium to high sheen paints are the most common paints used in homes with children or a lot of activity. These finishes have various names, including eggshell, semi-gloss and high gloss. Medium sheen finishes should be used in hallways, kitchens and bathrooms because they are easily cleaned and will not retain water stains. High sheen or high gloss is commonly used on the trim, crown molding and doors. High gloss adds a sense of class and is very easily cleaned. Some people prefer using an oil-based, high gloss paint for trim and doors because it is extremely durable.
  
  

Exterior Options

• Most exterior paints are made to weather any storm. They are commonly water-based paints that also come in a variety of finish options. Most exterior paints are either semi-gloss or high gloss, depending on their purpose. High gloss exterior paints are commonly used for doors and can be either oil or water based. Oil-based paint is not recommended for use when painting the entire exterior of a house, according to Hughes Painting. Oil paints attract mildew and lose their luster at a faster rate than latex paints. A more expensive option that professionals highly recommended is 100 percent acrylic paint. This type of exterior paint forms a protective barrier around your house and is more durable than water-based latex paint.