Choosing Paint for High Traffic Commercial Areas

Choosing Paint for High Traffic Commercial Areas

Commercial spaces experience constant foot traffic, frequent cleaning, and daily wear, meaning a standard paint won’t last long before looking tired. Choosing the right paint can make all the difference in ensuring walls stay fresh and professional-looking with minimal maintenance. 

Haymes Paint have spent four generations perfecting durable, high-performance paints that meet the demands of commercial spaces. Whether it’s a busy retail store, a high-use hospital corridor, or a café, we have the solutions to keep commercial areas looking their best.

Why Some Paint Doesn’t Last in Busy Spaces

Not all paint is made for high-traffic areas. Hallways, reception areas, offices, and retail stores are prone to constant contact, people brushing past walls, chairs scuffing, spills happening. This everyday wear means that low-quality paint can quickly chip, stain, or fade.

  • Frequent cleaning accelerates deterioration – In commercial settings, walls are wiped down often, and this weakens the finishes, meaning they lose their colour or gloss.
  • Scuffs and marks become obvious – Poor scuff resistance means walls will quickly look dirty.
  • Standard paints can’t handle moisture – Bathrooms, kitchens, and high moisture areas need protective paint to prevent mould and peeling.
  • Repainting often means higher costs – A cheap paint that needs constant touch-ups ends up costing more over time.

The Best Finishes for High-Traffic Areas

The right paint makes all the difference in how long your walls look fresh and how easy they are to clean. Here’s what to consider:

Satin Finish

  • The most versatile and durable option.
  • Easy to clean and resists dirt.
  • Ideal for hallways, offices, retail stores, and reception areas.

Eggshell Finish

  • Lower sheen than satin but still durable.
  • Works well in moderate-traffic spaces like waiting rooms or private offices.

Semi-Gloss Finish

  • Highly moisture-resistant and easy to wipe down.
  • Best for restaurants, healthcare facilities, and restrooms.
  • Reflects light, making spaces appear brighter.

Matt Finish (Only If Scuff-Resistant)

  • Traditional matt paints absorb stains, but modern scuff-resistant matt paints work well in offices and professional spaces.

What Makes Paint Last Longer in Commercial Spaces?

Aside from choosing the right finish, the formulation of the paint itself determines how well it will hold up. Commercial spaces need paint that can handle constant activity without looking worn out.

  • Scuff & Mark Resistance – Essential for hallways, entryways, and busy areas. Walls in these spaces take a beating, so a durable finish is essential.
  • Washability & Stain Resistance – Healthcare facilities, cafés, and offices require paint that stands up to regular cleaning without fading or peeling.
  • Moisture & Mould Resistance – Bathrooms, kitchens, and hospitality venues must use moisture-resistant coatings to prevent mould and mildew​.
  • UV Protection – Areas with high sun exposure need fade-resistant paint to maintain their original colour for longer.

A durable formulation means walls stay looking professional with fewer touch-ups, saving both time and money.

Our Durable Options for Commercial Spaces

Haymes Paint has spent decades crafting high-performance paints built to last in the toughest environments. Here’s what we recommend for commercial high-traffic areas:

  • Expressions® Interior – The all-rounder for commercial interiors. Washable, stain-resistant, and durable, it’s ideal for offices, lobbies, and retail stores.
  • Kitchen & Bathroom – Designed to resist moisture and prevent mould, making it the go-to choice for bathrooms, kitchens, and hospitality venues​.
  • Trimplus – For doors, trims, and surfaces that get knocked or handled constantly, this tough enamel offers superior durability.

Each of these paints is designed to withstand high use, frequent cleaning, and environmental stress, ensuring walls and surfaces maintain a professional look for years to come.

How to Make Your Commercial Paint Last Longer

Even the best paint benefits from smart application and upkeep. Follow these tips to get the most out of your high-traffic area:

  • Apply multiple coats – This strengthens the finish and durability.
  • Use protective trims & wall guards – In high-contact areas, this reduces direct impact on paint.
  • Choose the right primer – A good primer ensures better adhesion and longevity.

A great paint job isn’t just about choosing the right paint, it’s about applying it strategically so it lasts as long as possible.

Buy the Right Paint for a Long-Lasting Commercial Space

High-traffic commercial spaces don’t have to look tired and worn out. The right finish and formulation will ensure walls stay professional, clean, and easy to maintain. Explore Haymes Paint’s commercial-grade coatings today.

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