What kind of paint do I use on window trim
by Rebecca K
+4
I want to paint the dark brown trim of my living room bay window white to match our new trim. What kind of paint would I use so that it sticks and doesnt look awful?
7 answers
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Depending on what you used for the new trim, you should just be able to use the same paint, I think. A good primer and a good semi-gloss or satin latex paint will do the trick. And I always like Sherwin-Williams. It costs a little more (although you can almost always find decent coupons), but the staff, at least in my area, is very helpful and knowledgeable, and the product is very good. If you are painting this time of year, be sure to focus on low-VOC or no-VOC paints, as you can't leave the windows open all day to ventilate.
![3po3]()
3po3
on Dec 28, 2012
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I agree with Steve...SW paint is great. I like to use one step up in sheen when doing trim. If the walls are flat go with satin for trim, satin walls get semi-gloss trim. Keep in mind that the glossier paint will show brush marks easier than flat paints. So your prep and techniques need to be better.
![KMS Woodworks]()
KMS Woodworks
on Dec 29, 2012
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Assuming that this is interior trim we are talking about, we can assume this is wood trim. Priming would insure a better adhesion. In addition, you may want to see if the trim needs any caulk in the seam between the trim and walls before painting, as this would be a good time to clean that seam up, if needed. I agree with KMS on the sheen difference, and in my personal home, I go with less sheen for the reason that it does hide imperfections a bit better. (Flat/satin)
![Straight Nails Construction]()
Straight Nails Construction
on Dec 30, 2012
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The only thing I would add is that if the trim is now stained, it needs a sanding and cleaning before any primer goes on. I belong to the 'less glossier the better' club too!
![Peace Painting Co., Inc.]()
Peace Painting Co., Inc.
on Dec 30, 2012
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Rebecca - Steven G from Ft. Collins, CO hit the nail on the head (Please excuse the bad, bad pun) It comes down to having a good primer base and a quality satin or semi-gloss color. The biggest thing to remember is the old saying, "You get what you pay for." You can go to the local "MegaMart" and believe you got a good price on the paint, but you will quickly find that you are having to put three or more coats in order for the paint to cover. At a professional resource such as Sherwin-Williams; yes you will pay a bit more, but you will ultimately save yourself considerable time. The folks there will also have a vast amount of experience to find you the best product for the application. I am also a member of the "Less Gloss is Better Club" (I think we have a "kegger" planned for next Thursday.)
![APSuess Fine Woodworking]()
APSuess Fine Woodworking
on Dec 30, 2012
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SW Pro Classic is a great paint for trim, but you will be paying a premium price for that paint..... AP, I'm in Atlanta, where is the kegger?????
![Straight Nails Construction]()
Straight Nails Construction
on Jan 03, 2013
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Inside or outside trim?
![Pam Rice]()
Pam Rice
on Sep 13, 2015
3po3
on Dec 28, 2012
KMS Woodworks
on Dec 29, 2012
Peace Painting Co., Inc.
on Dec 30, 2012
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