Painting your home can be exciting and rewarding, but a common question that baffles many amateur painters is whether paint dries lighter or darker than when it’s wet. Here’s what you need to know.
What Impacts Whether Paint Dries Lighter or Darker?
Several factors influence whether paint dries lighter or darker:
Type of Paint
The composition of paint, specifically the ratio of pigment, binder, and additives, can greatly impact the drying process.
Pigment Concentration
Higher pigment concentration typically results in a richer, deeper colour that may appear darker when dry.
Underlying surface
The surface’s texture, colour, and porosity can all impact how the paint dries.
Lighting
Natural light, artificial light, and even the direction of the light source can change the perception of the paint’s colour.
Application
Thicker coats of paint often dry darker, while brushes or rollers can also impact the paint’s texture and appearance once dried.
Interior vs. Exterior Paint
Does interior paint dry lighter or darker? Interior paint tends to dry darker than its wet appearance, while exterior paint may dry lighter. This is because interior paint has more pigment, which results in a deeper, richer colour once dry. Exterior paint contains more binder and protective additives to withstand harsh outdoor conditions, giving it a slightly lighter appearance once dried.
How To Choose The Right Paint Colours
Test colours in the space you’re painting
Does paint look lighter or darker on the wall? Test it! Paint small sections of the wall with your chosen colour and observe how it appears under various lighting conditions and times of day. This will give you a better understanding of how the paint dries and whether adjustments need to be made to achieve the desired result.
Use colour swatches and sample pots
Colour swatches and sample pots are invaluable tools when selecting paint colours. They allow you to compare different shades and see how they work together before committing to a full-scale painting project. Can you paint a light colour over a dark colour? You can, but it may require multiple coats to achieve full coverage.
Choose Dulux
Dulux offers a wide range of high-quality paints for both interior and exterior applications. So, does Dulux paint dry lighter or darker? Dulux interior paint generally tends to dry darker, while exterior paint dries lighter. However, individual results may vary depending on surface type and lighting conditions.
Use Dulux sample pots to test paint colours in your space before committing. This allows you to see how the paint dries and how it looks under different lighting conditions, ensuring you’re satisfied with your choice.
How Can AJ Cochrane & Sons Help You Choose The Right Paint?
As experienced painters, AJ Cochrane & Sons understand the intricacies of paint drying and the impact of various factors on the final appearance. Our team of professionals can help guide you through selecting the perfect paint colour for your home, with careful consideration of your personal preferences and the specific conditions of your space.
