by michael daigle · 9 Jan 2024Have you ever painted a room in your home, only to find the new coat of paint scuffing, scratching, or peeling within a few months? It's frustrating, time-consuming, and expensive to have to repaint frequently. The key is using high-quality, durable paints designed for high-traffic, high-use areas like hallways, family rooms, kids' rooms, and staircases. These specialized paints are formulated to stand up to constant use and abuse without showing wear and tear.
In this article, we'll explore how to find the most durable paints and topcoats so you can get a professional-looking finish that lasts for years in your home's most active spaces. The products and techniques we recommend have been tested to handle the daily grind while still looking fresh. Your walls will stay pristine and you can avoid the hassle and cost of frequent touch-ups and repainting. The results are worth the small additional investment in a durable product. Follow these tips and you'll gain peace of mind that your home's hardest working surfaces will maintain a 'just painted' look for the long haul.
Introduction to High-Traffic Areas and Durable Paints
When it comes to high-traffic areas in your home, you need paints that can stand up to constant use and abuse. Durable paints are designed to handle the challenges of hallways, family rooms, playrooms, and stairways. Here are some tips for finding products that will last:
Look for paints labeled as “durable,” “scrubbable,” or “high-traffic.” These are formulated to resist stains, scratches, and repeated washing. Popular durable paint brands include Behr Premium Plus, Sherwin Williams Duration, and Benjamin Moore Aura.
Consider a glossier sheen. Flatter paints like matte or eggshell can be more prone to scuffs and stains. Satin, semi-gloss, or gloss paints create a harder, more washable finish.
Check the scrub rating. Many major paint brands will provide a scrub rating, indicating how many scrubs the paint can withstand before showing wear. For high-traffic areas, look for a rating of at least 3,000 to 5,000 scrubs.
Consider a paint and primer in one. These products contain both paint and primer, so you get better coverage and durability in fewer coats. They’re ideal for covering surfaces that have been previously painted.
For the most durable results, properly prepare the walls, apply at least two coats of paint, and consider a clear topcoat like polyurethane. With the right products and techniques, you can have a high-traffic space that withstands whatever life throws at it.
Understanding Durability Ratings for Interior Paints
When it comes to choosing durable interior paints, you'll want to consider the durability or scrub resistance rating. The higher the rating, the tougher the paint and the better it will stand up to frequent cleaning and stains in high-traffic areas like kitchens, bathrooms, and kids’ rooms.
Look for paints rated “scrubbable” or “washable,” meaning they can handle occasional scrubbing without showing wear or damage. For the most durable options, choose paints rated “scrubbable” or “super scrubbable.” These can handle more frequent or vigorous cleaning. Some specific ratings to look for include:
• Scrub Resistance (SR): Rated 1 to 5, with 5 being the most scrub-resistant. Look for SR 3 or higher.
• Washability: Rated 1 to 5, with 5 being the most washable. Again, aim for 3 or higher.
• Scrub cycles: Specifies the number of scrub cycles the paint can withstand before showing signs of wear, e.g. 10,000 scrub cycles. The higher the better.
• Stain resistance: Rated “good,” “very good,” or “excellent.” For high-traffic areas, “very good” or “excellent” stain resistance is best.
• Moisture resistance: Important for bathrooms and kitchens. Look for paints rated “moisture resistant” or “mold/mildew resistant.”
• Enamel paints: Oil- or water-based enamels provide a durable, scrubbable finish. Popular brands include Sherwin Williams ProClassic and Benjamin Moore Aura.
By choosing a paint with the right durability rating for your needs, you'll end up with a finish that stands the test of time and frequent use. Your walls will stay looking fresh for years to come.
The Importance of Primers for High-Traffic Areas
Primers are essential for helping paint adhere better to surfaces in high-traffic areas like hallways, living rooms, and kids’ rooms. Without a primer, the paint won’t bond as well to the wall, leading it to scratch, scuff, and chip much more easily.
Better adhesion
Primers are designed specifically to provide a solid base coat for paint to stick to. They penetrate into the pores of the wall surface, creating an ideal surface for paint to bond with. This results in a finish that is much more durable and long-lasting. If you skip the primer, the paint won’t adhere as well and is more prone to damage.
Sealing and blocking stains
Primers can also seal porous surfaces like drywall to provide an even base, as well as block stains from bleeding through. Oil- and water-based primers can effectively seal out water stains, smoke stains, and nicotine stains so they don’t show through your new paint job. For heavy-duty blocking power, look for a primer specifically designed as a stain-blocking primer.
Uniform surface
Primers create an even, uniform surface for paint to be applied to. They fill in tiny cracks, holes, and imperfections and provide a smooth base coat. Without a primer, these tiny flaws in the wall surface can show through, creating an uneven look to your finished paint job.
Cost-effective solution
While primers do require an upfront investment, they can save you money in the long run. Because paint adheres so much better over primer, you’ll likely need fewer coats of paint to achieve an even, professional-looking finish. Primers also allow you to get the most out of your paint, reducing waste. When it’s time to repaint, primer provides a durable base so you can often get away with just touching up spots or applying one coat of new paint.
In high-traffic areas where durability really counts, primer is a must for any paint project. An extra step that pays off big time, primer helps your paint job withstand the test of time so your walls continue to look freshly painted for years to come.
Comparing Paint Sheens - Eggshell vs. Semi-Gloss
When choosing paint for high-traffic areas like hallways, staircases, and kids’ rooms,
you’ll want a durable product that can stand up to constant use and the occasional bump or scuff. Two popular sheens for these spaces are eggshell and semi-gloss. But which is the better choice? Here are some factors to consider:
Scrubbability
Eggshell paint has a soft, velvety finish that hides minor imperfections in walls and trim. However, its matte surface can be difficult to clean and is less scrub-resistant. Semi-gloss paint has a harder, shinier finish that is much more durable and stain-resistant. Spills, splatters, and marks can be easily wiped away without damaging the paint.
Reflectiveness
Semi-gloss paint has a higher sheen due to light-reflecting polymers in the paint. This results in a shiny, glossy look that makes surfaces appear brighter and highlights the contours of the wall. The satin finish of eggshell paint absorbs more light for a flatter, more matte appearance.
Ease of Application
Eggshell paint is easier to apply as it hides small brushstrokes and imperfections. Its thicker consistency also allows for better coverage in fewer coats. Semi-gloss paint shows more brushstrokes and requires careful application to avoid streaks. It may need an additional coat to achieve an even finish.
Durability
Semi-gloss paint forms a harder, more durable coating that stands up well to frequent cleaning and heavy traffic. Its tougher finish is more resistant to stains, marks and scratches. The softer eggshell sheen can show damage more easily and may require more frequent touch-ups or recoating.
In the end, for maximum durability and scrubability in high-use areas, semi-gloss paint is probably your best choice. But for an attractive finish that hides surface imperfections with a softer sheen, eggshell paint can also work well and may be easier to apply. By weighing the pros and cons of each for your specific needs, you can select a product that will give you long-lasting results.
The Best Interior Paint Brands for Durability
When it comes to choosing durable interior paints, several top brands are known for high-quality products that stand up well to high traffic and frequent use. These paints may cost a bit more upfront, but will save you money, time and frustration in the long run.
Sherwin Williams Duration Home
This premium acrylic latex paint is designed specifically for high-traffic areas like living rooms, hallways, and kids’ rooms. It resists stains, scratches and fading and can last up to 10 years without needing a touch up. Duration comes in a wide range of sheens from flat to glossy.
Benjamin Moore Aura Interior
Benjamin Moore’s Aura line is another highly-rated, durable choice. Like Duration, Aura is an acrylic latex paint that provides excellent coverage and color retention. It dries quickly and has very little odor. Aura comes in a variety of sheens and over 3,500 colors. For the most durable finish, choose eggshell or satin.
Behr Premium Plus Ultra
Behr’s Premium Plus Ultra is a great affordable option for durable interior paint. It provides stain and scratch resistance for up to 8 years. The satin and semi-gloss sheens are particularly durable and easy to clean. Premium Plus Ultra comes in over 1,000 colors and a variety of sizes so you can get just what you need for your project.
When choosing a durable paint, look for key terms like “scrubbable,” “stain-resistant,” “washable,” “durable,” “long-lasting” or “high-traffic.” Satin, eggshell or semi-gloss sheens tend to be the most durable. And of course, check reviews from other customers to determine how the paint actually holds up over time. With a quality, durable product and proper preparation, you’ll enjoy your new paint job for many years to come.
Cleaning and Care for Durable Paint Finishes
Once you’ve chosen a durable paint finish for high-traffic areas, proper cleaning and care will help keep it looking its best for years to come.
Gentle, frequent cleaning
For most durable paints like epoxies and urethanes, regular dusting or wiping down with a damp cloth is recommended. Use a microfiber duster or cloth and vacuum attachments to gently remove built-up dirt and debris. For stuck-on messes, use a mixture of warm water and a mild detergent or degreaser, then rinse well with water. Avoid harsh chemicals, abrasive cleaners and strong solvents which can dull the finish over time.
Periodic deep cleaning
Every few months, do a more thorough cleaning to remove grease, grime and ground-in dirt. Use a degreasing dish soap and scrub stubborn areas with an abrasive sponge or scrubber. Rinse thoroughly when done and dry with a clean cloth to prevent water spots. For textured paints, use a soft bristled brush to clean the grooves and crevices.
Wipe up spills immediately
Quickly blotting up spills and splatters before they dry will make cleaning durable paint finishes much easier. Use a clean, damp cloth to absorb liquid spills, then rinse the area with water and mild detergent once the spill has been removed. For dried on messes, you may need to scrub a bit to loosen the residue. The faster you act, the less elbow grease required!
Protect the finish
In high-traffic, commercial settings you may want to consider a protective topcoat like wax, polyurethane or lacquer. These can help prevent scratches, stains and make the surface easier to clean. However, some paint types like epoxies already contain a built-in topcoat, so check with the manufacturer first before applying anything additional which could affect adhesion or durability.
With regular maintenance and by following the recommendations for your specific paint product, a durable finish can stay looking fresh for many years in even the toughest environments. Keeping high-traffic areas clean and protected will ensure you get the maximum lifespan from your paint job.
DIY Tips for Achieving a Long-Lasting Paint Job
Use a Primer
For the best results, start with a primer. A primer helps the new paint adhere better to the wall. Look for a primer specially formulated for the room you're painting, such as a kitchen & bath primer or a primer for trim & doors. Apply at least one coat of primer before painting. Let it dry as directed.
Choose a Durable Paint Finish
The finish, or sheen, of the paint also affects its durability. Flat paint has no shine and stains easily. Eggshell has a soft sheen and stands up well to washing. Satin has a medium shine and is very durable. Semi-gloss has a slight shine and resists moisture and stains. Glossy paint has a high shine and is the most durable, perfect for trim and doors. For high-traffic walls, satin, semi-gloss or glossy paints are your best options.
Apply Multiple Coats
For the most durable results, apply at least two coats of paint, waiting 2-3 hours between coats. The first coat provides coverage, while the second coat protects the first and gives an even finish. Some premium paints may require a third coat for best results. Follow the recommendations on the paint can for how many coats are needed.
Use a Paint Additive
You can also add a product to regular paint to increase its durability. Paint extenders and conditioners can improve coverage and adhesion. Concrete and masonry paint additives help the paint bond strongly to surfaces like brick or cinder block. Epoxy additives create an extremely durable, chemical-resistant finish. Follow directions to determine how much additive to add per gallon of paint.
•Clean the walls before painting. Wash and rinse dirty or greasy walls to provide "tooth" for the new paint to grip onto.
• Apply a clear topcoat like polyurethane over the final coat of paint. This protects the color coat and creates an easy-to-clean surface.
• For high-traffic or commercial spaces, consider a commercial-grade paint. These are designed to withstand frequent cleaning, scrubbing, and contact.
Following these tips will help you get great results and a long-lasting paint job. Take your time to do it right and the new paint should keep your space looking fresh for years to come.
When to Call a Professional Painter for High-Traffic Areas
When it comes to painting high-traffic areas like hallways, staircases, and playrooms, durability is key. These spaces see a lot of activity, so you want a paint that can stand up to frequent use and occasional bumps without showing damage or looking worn too quickly. In some cases, it may make sense to hire a professional painter to get the best, longest-lasting results.
Experience Matters
Professional painters have years of experience working with different paints and know which products hold up best in high-traffic, high-use areas. They are trained to properly prepare surfaces, apply an adequate number of coats, and use tools and techniques that help maximize a paint’s durability. Diy painting, while budget-friendly, often does not achieve the same level of durability as a pro job.
They Have Access to High-Performance Paints
Professional-grade paints, especially those designed for commercial use, are formulated to be extremely durable and scrubbable. These paints may not be available at your local hardware store. Painters that specialize in residential repainting and new construction will have access to these heavy-duty, long-lasting paint options.
They Can Recommend the Right Sheen
The sheen, or gloss level, impacts how well paint holds up to frequent contact and cleaning. A high-gloss sheen is very durable but can look too shiny for some. A professional painter can recommend a satin, eggshell or semi-gloss sheen that provides good durability for the area without an overly glossy appearance.
They Prep and Apply Multiple Coats
Proper surface preparation and the application of multiple coats of paint, especially a primer and two topcoats, significantly improve durability. Professional painters thoroughly clean, fill, sand and prime surfaces before painting. They are also meticulous about applying an adequate number of coats to create an durable finish. Rushing the job with quick, sloppy prep and too few coats will not lead to a lasting result, no matter the quality of paint.
For the most durable, long-lasting results in your home’s high-traffic areas, hiring an experienced professional painter is worth considering. Their expertise, access to heavy-duty paints, and meticulous process will help ensure the new paint finish continues looking fresh for many years to come despite constant use and activity.
FAQ on Choosing Durable Paints for High-Traffic Areas
Paints and coatings specifically designed for high-traffic, high-wear areas of homes are becoming more popular and readily available. These durable paints are formulated to stand up to frequent use and abrasion. If you have areas of heavy foot traffic in your home, like staircases, hallways, kitchens or playrooms, choosing a durable paint can help prevent premature wear and scratches.
What makes a paint “durable”?
Durable paints contain higher amounts of resins and binders that create a tougher, more scratch-resistant coating. They often incorporate abrasion-resistant additives like aluminum oxide. These paints may have a higher sheen, like satin or semi-gloss, which also helps repel stains and marks. The higher the sheen, the more scrubbable and stain-resistant the paint will be.
How much do durable paints cost?
Because of their specialized formulations, durable paints are often a bit more expensive than standard interior paints. However, since they last 2-3 times longer, they can save you money in the long run. Prices for durable paint range from $30-$70 per gallon.
What types of durable paint are available?
You’ll find durable options in most major paint types:
- Latex or acrylic paints: Water-based, low-VOC, scrubbable. Popular brands include Sherwin Williams Duration, Benjamin Moore Aura and Behr Premium Plus Ultra.
- Oil-based paints: Very durable but higher VOC. Often used for trim and cabinets. Brands like Sherwin Williams ProClassic and Benjamin Moore Impervo are good options.
- Epoxy paints: Two-part coating with a catalyst that creates an extremely durable finish. Used for concrete floors, wood floors, commercial spaces. Brands like Sherwin Williams ArmorSeal and Benjamin Moore Corotech are available.
- Urethane paints: Single component, alkyd-based paint with an urethane resin. Very durable and chemical-resistant. Often used for cabinets, trim and metal. Sold under various brands like Sherwin Williams Pro Industrial.
By choosing a paint specifically designed for high-traffic, high-wear areas and properly preparing and applying it, you can achieve a finish that will stand up beautifully to years of use. The extra investment in a durable product will pay off with a long-lasting, low-maintenance finish.
Final Thoughts
So now you're armed with the knowledge of what makes a durable paint and some highly-rated options to consider. The key is finding a product specifically designed for high-traffic, high-wear areas that contains hard, protective resins and binders. Look for paints rated for at least 10-15 years of durability and scrub resistance. It may cost a bit more upfront, but will save you money, time and frustration in the long run. Stop settling for mediocre paint jobs that start showing wear after just a year or two. You deserve walls and trim that still look freshly painted even after many years of kids, pets and guests brushing by. With the right durable and long-lasting paint, you can transform any space into one that withstands the test of time.