What Is Interior Wall Paint?
Interior wall paint is a coating designed to colour and protect indoor walls and ceilings, creating a consistent, washable finish.
It is formulated for even coverage and durability on plaster, drywall and previously painted surfaces.
Most interior wall paints are available in matt, eggshell or silk finishes, which affect sheen, durability and ease of cleaning.
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What is interior wall paint used for?
Interior wall paint is used to:
- Add colour and finish to interior spaces
- Protect wall surfaces from everyday wear
- Improve light reflection and room brightness
- Create a washable, maintainable surface
It is commonly applied in living rooms, bedrooms, hallways, kitchens, offices and commercial interiors.
What surfaces can interior wall paint be applied to?
Interior wall paint can be applied to most common indoor wall surfaces, including:
- Plaster and skimmed walls
- Drywall and plasterboard
- Previously painted walls
- Interior masonry (once sealed or primed)
Proper preparation is essential to ensure good adhesion and an even finish, especially on new or porous surfaces.
Types of interior wall paint finishes
Interior wall paint is available in several finishes, each suited to different environments and levels of use.
Matt wall paint
Matt paint has a low sheen and soft appearance.
It is ideal for:
- Living rooms and bedrooms
- Walls with minor imperfections
- Creating a modern, understated look
Matt finishes absorb light rather than reflecting it, helping to hide uneven surfaces.
Silk wall paint
Silk paint has a higher sheen and reflective finish.
It is often used in:
- Hallways and stairwells
- Rooms requiring easier cleaning
- Spaces where light reflection is desirable
Because it reflects more light, silk paint can highlight surface imperfections if walls are uneven.
Eggshell wall paint
Eggshell sits between matt and silk, offering:
- A subtle sheen
- Improved durability over matt
- Easier cleaning without high shine
Eggshell is often chosen for high-traffic rooms where a softer appearance is still wanted.
What makes a high-quality interior wall paint?
A high-quality wall paint is defined by:
- Strong opacity and coverage
- Consistent colour and finish
- Good adhesion to prepared surfaces
- Durability and resistance to marking
- Washability without losing appearance
Premium formulations also reduce splashing, provide smoother application and maintain colour over time.
Is eco interior wall paint different from standard wall paint?
Eco interior wall paint is formulated to reduce environmental impact while maintaining performance.
Key differences may include:
- Lower VOC (volatile organic compound) content
- Reduced odour during application
- Safer indoor air quality once dry
- Responsible sourcing of raw materials
Modern eco wall paints are designed to perform as well as traditional paints while being more suitable for homes, schools and enclosed spaces.
Learn more about how drying and clean air contribute to sustainability in our Eco Paint guide.
For a comparison of sustainability and performance, see Eco Paint vs Traditional Paint.
Frequently Asked Questions
Interior wall paint is used to decorate and protect indoor walls and ceilings, creating a durable and visually appealing surface.
Wall paint and emulsion paint are often used interchangeably, but “wall paint” is a broader term that includes different finishes and modern formulations.
Yes, many interior wall paints are suitable for ceilings, although specialist ceiling paints are sometimes preferred for reduced splatter and uniform coverage.
Many modern wall paints are washable once fully cured, though washability varies depending on finish and formulation.
The best finish depends on the room. Matt is popular for living spaces, eggshell for durability with a soft look, and silk for areas needing easy cleaning.