Yes, you can paint a wall with furniture paint, but it may not be the most suitable option compared to using paint specifically designed for walls. As stated by experts, Yes, you can use wood paint on walls, although there are often better alternatives available.
While furniture paint (which is often a type of wood paint) offers durability and a tough finish, optimized for surfaces like cabinets, chairs, and tables, wall paint (typically emulsion or latex paint) is formulated differently to suit the needs of larger, vertical surfaces like walls.
Understanding Paint Types: Furniture Paint vs. Wall Paint
Choosing the right paint depends heavily on the surface and the desired outcome.
What is Furniture Paint?
Furniture paint is designed to provide a durable, often hard-wearing finish that can withstand knocks, scuffs, and frequent cleaning. It comes in various types (e.g., acrylic, chalk, milk paint, enamel) and finishes (matt, satin, gloss) and is formulated to adhere well to materials commonly used in furniture, such as wood, metal, and laminate.
What is Wall Paint?
Wall paint, or emulsion, is specifically designed for interior walls and ceilings. Its key properties include:
- Good Coverage: Effectively hides previous colors or imperfections over large areas.
- Breathability: Allows walls to breathe, which is important for preventing moisture issues.
- Ease of Application: Designed for smooth rolling or brushing over large, flat surfaces.
- Washability/Durability: Available in various durability levels to suit different room types (e.g., scrubbable paints for kitchens/bathrooms, standard emulsions for living areas).
Why Furniture Paint May Not Be Ideal for Walls
Using furniture paint on walls is possible, but it comes with potential drawbacks that make it less suitable than dedicated wall paint for most projects:
- Cost: Furniture paint can often be more expensive per litre than wall paint, especially specialized formulas. Painting an entire room can become significantly more costly.
- Application: Furniture paint is sometimes thicker or dries faster than wall paint, making it harder to apply smoothly and evenly over large wall surfaces. It might also show brush or roller marks more readily.
- Finish: The hard, durable finish of furniture paint might not be necessary or even desirable on walls in low-traffic areas. Some furniture paints can create a very hard or slightly plastic-like finish which differs from the typical look and feel of wall paint.
- Coverage: While durable, furniture paints aren't always formulated for the same level of opacity or coverage per coat as quality wall emulsions, potentially requiring more coats.
- Breathability: Some furniture paints, particularly those with higher sheen or enamel types, may not be as breathable as standard wall paints, which could potentially impact moisture regulation in the wall substrate over time.
Considerations If You Choose to Use Furniture Paint on Walls
If you decide to proceed with using furniture paint on your walls, consider these points for the best results:
- Surface Preparation: Ensure the wall is clean, smooth, and free from grease or loose paint.
- Priming: Apply a suitable primer designed for the wall material and the type of furniture paint you are using. This promotes adhesion and can help with coverage.
- Application Technique: Practice on a small, inconspicuous area first. Use thin, even coats and allow adequate drying time between applications.
- Ventilation: Ensure good ventilation, especially if the furniture paint has high levels of VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds).
While you can use furniture paint on a wall, it's generally recommended to use paint specifically formulated for walls for optimal results, cost-effectiveness, and ease of application.
| Paint Type | Primary Use | Typical Characteristics | Suitability for Walls |
|---|---|---|---|
| Furniture Paint | Furniture, Cabinets, Wood | Durable, hard finish, various types/sheens | Possible, but not ideal |
| Wall Paint | Walls, Ceilings | Good coverage, breathable, easy application | Ideal |
Ultimately, using furniture paint on a wall is technically feasible but comes with practical considerations that may make standard wall paint a better choice for most wall painting projects.
