Painting Glossary

Clear, simple definitions of common painting terms every homeowner should know.

Paint Types

Acrylic paint

Fast-drying, water-based wall paint with low odor and easy cleanup.

Enamel paint

Durable, often glossy coating for trim, doors, and cabinets.

Preparation

Primer (paint)

Prep coating that improves adhesion, seals, and blocks stains.

Tools & Equipment

Paint roller

Cylindrical applicator for fast, even coverage on walls and ceilings.

General

House painting

Applying paint to a home’s interior/exterior to protect surfaces and improve appearance.

All terms (A–Z)

Acrylic paint

Fast-drying, water-based wall paint with low odor and easy cleanup.

Enamel paint

Durable, often glossy coating for trim, doors, and cabinets.

House painting

Applying paint to a home’s interior/exterior to protect surfaces and improve appearance.

Paint roller

Cylindrical applicator for fast, even coverage on walls and ceilings.

Primer (paint)

Prep coating that improves adhesion, seals, and blocks stains.