How to Choose Paint for Residential vs Commercial Projects

How to Choose Paint for Residential vs Commercial Projects

Expert Advice & Painting Ideas

Selecting the wrong type of paint for your space can lead to costly maintenance, premature wear, and aesthetic compromises. The needs of a residential project can be vastly different from those of a commercial project, and the right paint can make all the difference.

Haymes Paint is an Australian-owned and family-run business since 1935, and we understand the unique demands of both markets. We have developed premium paints designed to withstand Australia’s climate and regulatory requirements. Whether you're refreshing your home or maintaining a commercial property, know what sets our paints apart from alternatives to ensure a durable, functional, and visually appealing result.

Differences Between Residential and Commercial Paint

Homes and commercial buildings require different paint products depending on the project. 

Durability Needs

  • Residential: Paint must withstand daily life but isn’t exposed to the constant wear of public spaces. Washability and stain resistance are key for family homes, making options like Expressions® Interior a practical choice.
  • Commercial: Offices, retail spaces, and hospitality venues see higher foot traffic and frequent cleaning, requiring scuff-resistant, long-lasting coatings that hold up to daily use such as Coverplus.

Aesthetic Considerations

  • Residential: Homeowners choose paint based on personal style and colour trends, often preferring softer finishes like matte and eggshell.
  • Commercial: Businesses prioritise brand consistency, professional appearance, and practicality, often using neutral or corporate colours with semi-gloss or gloss finishes for longevity.

Safety & Compliance

  • Low-VOC paints are essential in homes, schools, hospitals, and offices to maintain indoor air quality.
  • Mould-resistant coatings help protect kitchens, bathrooms, and high-humidity areas.

Understanding these factors ensures the paint choice aligns with functionality and long-term maintenance needs.

Selecting the Right Paint for Residential or Commercial

Residential Paint Options

  • Interior: Expressions® Interior is an excellent choice for family homes, offering low-odour, stain-resistant, and washable properties.
  • Exterior: Solashield® Exterior provides UV protection, weather resistance, and colour longevity, making it ideal for Australian outdoor conditions.

Commercial Paint Options

  • High-Traffic Interiors: Trimplus is tough and durable enamel, easy to clean, and does not yellow, making it suitable for offices, retail spaces, and public buildings.
  • Metal and Industrial Surfaces:MetalPlus Universal Primer provides a protective barrier against rust and corrosion, essential for metal structures, fences, and warehouses.MetalPlus UV Superior Enamel delivers UV resistance, weather protection, and durability, ensuring long-lasting metal finishes​.

Choosing the correct product ensures a professional, long-lasting finish while reducing maintenance and repainting costs.

How Paint Finishes Impact Longevity and Maintenance

Paint finish influences durability, ease of cleaning, and overall look.

  • Matte & Eggshell: Best for low-traffic home interiors, offering a soft, elegant look but requiring careful maintenance.
  • Satin & Semi-Gloss: The most versatile choice, balancing durability and aesthetic appeal in residential and commercial interiors.
  • Gloss & High-Gloss: Highly durable and easy to clean, ideal for doors, trims, and high-traffic areas in commercial settings.

Selecting the right finish ensures the surface stays looking fresh for longer with minimal upkeep.

Tips for Choosing the Right Paint

  • Assess foot traffic levels to determine durability needs.
  • Consider maintenance as high-traffic areas need easy-to-clean finishes.
  • Match the finish to function, with gloss for durability and matte for aesthetics.
  • Invest in quality, as premium paints reduce repainting frequency and long-term costs.

Choose the Right Paint for a Perfect Finish

The paint you choose directly impacts durability, aesthetics, and long-term maintenance. Whether you're painting a family home, a bustling retail space, or an industrial facility, selecting the right product makes all the difference.

Choose Haymes Paint for premium, Australian-made paint products that are tailored for both residential and commercial use. Visit your nearest Haymes Paint stockist to get started.

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