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Quick Answer
Yes, Benjamin Moore Aura paint can be used in bathrooms. Aura is Benjamin Moore’s premium interior latex paint formulated to provide excellent durability and washability, making it a great choice for high-moisture areas like bathrooms.
More Detailed Answer
Benjamin Moore Aura paint is specifically designed for interior applications and can withstand the humidity and moisture common in bathrooms. Here are some key reasons Benjamin Moore Aura works well for painting bathrooms:
Formulated for Bathrooms
– Aura is formulated with proprietary resins that provide excellent adhesion and durability on multiple surfaces, including drywall, plaster, concrete, wood and more. It’s designed to stick tightly and flex rather than blister or peel.
– It’s mildew resistant and mold resistant, preventing mildew growth on the paint film. This is essential for the high humidity environment of bathrooms.
– It’s highly scrub-resistant and washable, allowing it to stand up to repeated cleaning and scrubbing. This durability is important for surfaces like walls around bathtubs and showers.
Low Odor and VOCs
– Aura has very low odor and VOCs (volatile organic compounds) compared to many other paints. VOCs can be irritating and are best avoided in small enclosed spaces like bathrooms.
– The low odor means you can paint bathrooms with less bother from fumes. Odor dissipates faster after painting compared to conventional paints.
Variety of Sheens
– Aura comes in four sheens: matte, eggshell, satin and semi-gloss. Eggshell and satin are most popular for bathrooms.
– The right sheen helps ensure walls can be easily cleaned. Satin and semi-gloss are very wipeable finishes.
Moisture Resistant Finish
– Aura offers excellent resistance to moisture damage. It can handle steam, condensation and accidental splashes.
– Bathroom surfaces can be washed repeatedly without harming the Aura paint film.
– Its durability and moisture resistance help prevent peeling, cracking or growth of mold.
Preparing Bathroom Surfaces for Aura Paint
Proper surface preparation is vital for success when painting any room with Aura or any paint. Here are some tips for preparing bathroom surfaces:
Repair Any Damage
Inspect walls and ceilings for water damage, cracks, peeling paint or other issues and repair them. Addressing problems prior to painting prevents them from showing through the new paint job.
Clean Surfaces
Bathroom surfaces should be cleaned well to remove any dirt, stains, mold, mildew, grease or soap scum. Cleaning helps Aura adhere properly. Wash walls with a diluted solution of trisodium phosphate (TSP).
Sand Glossy Surfaces
Use 220 grit sandpaper to degloss any shiny or glossy paint. This allows the new paint to stick better and produces a uniform finish.
Fill Holes and Cracks
Fill any small holes from nails or other damages with spackle or caulk and allow to fully dry before painting.
Prime Bare Drywall or Plaster
Use Aura Bath and Spa paint as a primer if painting new drywall or bare plaster surfaces. For heavily stained existing paint, use a specialty primer like Aura Grand Entrance.
Allow Proper Dry Time
Make sure previously painted surfaces and primers are fully cured for at least 24 hours before painting with Aura. This prevents problems like peeling or poor adhesion.
How to Paint a Bathroom with Aura
Here is a step-by-step guide for successfully painting a bathroom with Benjamin Moore Aura:
1. Prepare the Space
Clear out the bathroom as much as possible prior to painting. Remove items from countertops and store toiletries, towels and accessories elsewhere. Tape a drop cloth to the floor and cover fixtures.
2. Repair and Clean Surfaces
Fix any damaged areas of drywall. Wash down all walls, baseboards, ceilings and trim with TSP cleaner. Rinse thoroughly and allow to fully dry.
3. Sand and Spot Prime
Lightly sand glossy surfaces and spot prime any exposed drywall, plaster, wood, or existing oil-based paints. Allow primers to dry completely.
4. Apply First Coat of Aura
Cut in edges with a quality angled paint brush. Roll on an even coat using a 3/8″ nap roller, maintaining a wet edge to prevent lap marks. Allow 4 hours dry time before recoating.
5. Second Coat of Aura
For best coverage and durability, apply a second coat of Aura to all bathroom surfaces. Allow to dry overnight before using shower, tub or other fixtures.
6. Reinstall Fixtures and Accessories
Carefully re-hang shower curtains, towel bars and anything that was removed prior to painting. Seal containers of paint. Enjoy your fresh new bathroom!
Tips for Achieving the Best Results
Follow these tips when applying Aura paint to get flawless results:
– Maintain a wet edge while painting to prevent lap marks and uneven sheen. Work in sections and avoid starting and stopping mid-wall.
– Use a premium Benjamin Moore roller cover and rinse it frequently in a bucket of water while painting to avoid leaving excess paint behind that can dry on the wall.
– Apply in the direction of the light source to make sure any imperfections are less noticeable.
– Use two coats for full coverage and protection. Certain dark or bright colors may require a third coat to achieve an even look.
– If spraying Aura, be sure to back roll after each section to ensure proper adhesion and an even coat.
– Allow the full dry time recommended before bathing or extensive cleaning. Cure time depends on temperature and humidity but is around 4 hours between coats and 24 hours for full hardness.
Recommended Sheens for Bathrooms
The sheen chosen for bathroom paint impacts its durability and ease of cleaning:
| Sheen | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Matte | Not recommended due to difficulty cleaning |
| Eggshell | Provides subtle sheen and easy cleanability |
| Satin | Most popular choice, easy to clean and touches up well |
| Semi-Gloss | Very durable and stain resistant but shows imperfections |
In general, satin and eggshell finishes are preferred for bathrooms using Aura. Satin provides a beautiful mid-luster finish that holds up to moisture while still hiding imperfections well. Eggshell is also easy to clean and touch up.
Tips for Maintaining Painted Bathroom Surfaces
While Aura paint provides excellent durability in bathrooms, following these maintenance tips will keep walls looking like new:
– Use a mild soap and water or a specially formulated Benjamin Moore cleaner for routine cleaning. Avoid abrasive cleaners.
– Immediately wipe up any moisture on walls or ceilings to prevent buildup of mold or mildew.
– Open windows during and after showers to allow moisture to dissipate instead of soaking into paint.
– Run bathroom exhaust fans during bathing and extend for a period afterwards to remove humid air.
– Avoid hanging towels or clothes directly on freshly painted walls. The moisture can damage the finish.
– Re-caulk areas like joints between tile and wall as needed to prevent moisture penetration behind paint.
– Touch up any nicks or scrapes in the paint film as soon as possible to prevent moisture getting under the paint.
Conclusion
Benjamin Moore Aura provides a top-quality paint option well-suited for the high humidity and frequent cleaning needs of bathrooms. With proper surface prep, application, sheen selection and maintenance, Aura paint gives a durable, mold-resistant coating that will keep walls looking fresh. The varieties of colors and finishes available from Aura allow you to customize your bathroom décor. Follow the tips outlined here to get great results from using Benjamin Moore Aura paint in your bathroom.