When it comes to choosing the best acrylic paint for painting walls, there are a few key factors to consider. The quality and durability of the paint, the finish and sheen, the ease of application, and the price point will all play a role in determining which acrylic wall paint is right for your project.
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Key Factors to Consider
Here are some of the main things you’ll want to keep in mind when selecting an acrylic paint for walls:
- Quality – Higher quality paints will have better coverage, durability, and longevity. Look for brands from reputable manufacturers.
- Durability – Acrylic paint holds up well on walls, but higher quality paint will be more scratch, scuff, and stain resistant.
- Finish and Sheen – Most acrylic wall paints come in matte, eggshell, satin, and semi-gloss finishes. Consider the aesthetic you want.
- Ease of Application – The viscosity and coatability of the paint impacts how easy it is to apply. Look for good flow and leveling.
- Price – Acrylic wall paint prices can range from $10/gallon for basic brands to $50+/gallon for premium. Set a budget before choosing.
The Best Acrylic Wall Paints
With thousands of acrylic paint options on the market, narrowing down the choices can be a challenge. Based on quality, performance, and value, here are 5 of the best acrylic paint brands for walls:
1. Behr Premium Plus
Behr Premium Plus is a top-rated acrylic paint that provides great coverage, durability, and color retention. It features an acrylic formula enhanced with epoxy resins for better adhesion and protection. It’s available in all sheens and over 1,000 colors.
2. Benjamin Moore Aura
Benjamin Moore Aura is a high-end acrylic paint known for its smooth application and long-lasting color. It’s formulated with advanced resins andcontains zero VOCs. It’s available in matte, eggshell, satin, semi-gloss, and high-gloss finishes.
3. Sherwin-Williams Duration Home
Sherwin-Williams Duration Home is specially formulated for residential spaces. It goes on smoothly, resists staining, and will look freshly painted for years. It’s available in several sheens and has antimicrobial properties.
4. PPG Timeless
PPG Timeless interior paint provides total one coat hide and coverage thanks to its highly pigmented formula. It resists wear, stains, mold, and mildew while giving walls a uniform matte finish.
5. Glidden Premium
For a budget-friendly option, Glidden Premium acrylic latex paint provides good quality and durability. It features stainblocking primers, is scrubbable, and provides a paint and primer in one. It’s best for low and medium traffic areas.
How to Choose the Right Sheen
One of the biggest considerations when selecting an interior wall paint is the sheen, or paint finish. The sheen affects the overall look and feel of the painted surface. Here’s an overview of the acrylic wall paint sheen options:
| Sheen | Definition | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Matte | Virtually no shine/reflectivity | Hides imperfections, easy to touch up |
| Eggshell | Soft velvety appearance, subtle sheen | Washable, hides imperfections |
| Satin | Low-luster sheen, some reflectivity | Stain resistant, easy to clean |
| Semi-Gloss | Moderate glossy appearance | Very durable, ideal for high-traffic areas |
In general, lower sheen paints like matte and eggshell work best for walls, while higher gloss paints are ideal for trim and creating accents. Consider the existing lighting and your aesthetic goals.
How Much Paint is Needed?
To estimate how much acrylic wall paint you’ll need for your project, you’ll need to calculate the wall area using the following formula:
Wall Area = Wall Length x Wall Height x Number of Walls
Once you have the total wall area, use the following paint coverage guidelines based on the surface material:
- Drywall or Plaster: 350-400 sq ft per gallon
- Previously Painted Drywall: 400-450 sq ft per gallon
- Brick or Concrete: 300-350 sq ft per gallon
- Wood Siding: 300-350 sq ft per gallon
Be sure to round up when estimating to account for extra paint needed for priming, multiple coats, and touch-ups.
Paint Application Tips
To get the best results from acrylic wall paint, follow these best practices during application:
- Properly prepare surfaces – Clean, lightly sand, patch holes, primer if needed
- Use high-quality applicator – Brush, roller cover, or paint sprayer
- Apply in thin, even coats allowing proper dry time between coats
- Maintain wet edge as you paint to prevent lap marks
- Work in manageable sections starting at the top and working down
- Use painter’s tape for clean lines and edge protection
- Apply finish coat with strokes all in the same direction
Cleaning and Maintenance
Over time, painted walls can become dirty, stained, or scuffed. Here are some tips for cleaning and maintaining acrylic wall paint:
- Dust walls frequently using a microfiber duster or soft brush attachment on a vacuum
- Spot clean stains and marks by gently wiping with a damp microfiber cloth
- For tougher stains, use a mild dish soap and water solution wiping in gentle circles
- Avoid abrasive cleaners or scrubbing that can damage the paint finish
- Repaint walls periodically or as needed when paint appears faded, cracked, or worn
Conclusion
With the right prep work, application techniques, and maintenance, acrylic paint is an excellent option for painting interior walls. Behr Premium Plus, Benjamin Moore Aura, and Sherwin-Williams Duration Home are top choices that offer quality and value. Focus on selecting an acrylic wall paint in the right sheen and amount for your project. With the variety of acrylic paint brands and colors available, you can find the perfect fit for your wall painting needs and budget.