What Kind of Paint to Use on a Low Ventilated Bathroom?

Primers

• Using a primer specifically made for bathrooms and other high-moisture environments deters the growth of mold and mildew on the bathroom walls and ceilings. Although some paints claim to have these resistant ingredients in them, you'll want to start with a specialized primer for extra protection. Avoid bathing or washing in the bathroom after applying the primer to allow it to dry completely before applying the paint.

Paint Types

• Moisture-resistant interior paints are available in semi-gloss, matte and flat finishes, although semi-gloss is often preferred for its slick finish that is easier to wipe clean than the other types. Decorators often recommend semi-gloss paint for the walls and a matte or flat finish paint for the ceiling to add diversity to the surfaces. Outdoor paint that includes anti-fungal components is also good for preventing mold and mildew in bathrooms. However, outdoor paint takes more time to completely dry, so your bathroom will be out of commission longer.

Color Considerations

• Since bathrooms are typically among the smallest rooms in the house, the paint color is important to make them appear larger. Although white would seem to be the logical choice, it has a tendency to make the room feel stark and sterile rather than comforting and inviting. The top color choices for bathroom paint typically include lavender, which gives the room a fresh look; light shades of peach that add softness to the atmosphere; and yellow, for its energizing effects. If you are using more than one shade of paint, use the lighter ones on the walls and ceilings and the darker ones on the trim. The reflection of dark-colored walls in mirrors directly across from them makes the room look smaller.

Caulking

• Good caulking in a bathroom is important to protect your home from water damage. Although the walls and fixture couplings may look solid and intact, you need to replace the caulk or reinforce it during the painting process rather than perform the job later and possibly damage the new paint. Not only does fresh caulk protect the interior walls from moisture, but its bright whiteness gives the newly painted bathroom a professionally finished appearance as well.