What Type of Paint Is Best for My Garage Remodel?

Many people use their garages for more than just housing their vehicles. A garage space can serve multiple purposes. For instance, it can be a work area for building or repairing cars or household appliances. A garage can also be converted into a recreational room for teenagers to hang out with friends, or even an office space for homeowners who are working remotely. During the COVID-19 pandemic, many Illinois residents have spent more time at home and thus may be thinking about renovating their garages to fit this stay-at-home lifestyle. One item that may be overlooked when starting construction or remodeling is paint. Selecting the appropriate type of paint is critical for both the outside and the inside of your garage.

Picking Out Paint Is More Than Just Choosing a Color

It can be exciting to pick out new paint colors, whether it is for your garage’s shingles, shutters, siding, or interior walls. Outdoor paint must stand up against the Chicago area’s extreme weather, from hot and humid in the summer to sub-zero temperatures and blizzard conditions in the winter. However, the first step is understanding which kind of paint is appropriate depending on how you are going to use your garage:

• Interior latex paint is ideal for garage walls and ceilings. Latex paint is water-based, so it can be thinned with water instead of paint thinner. In addition, it dries quickly and has a minimal odor. A satin or semi-gloss finish looks nice and can be wiped clean if it gets scuffed or dirty. This type of paint works for high-traffic areas exposed to grease and moisture, which can often be found in a garage.
• Oil-based paint can be used indoors or outdoors, but it takes longer to dry and has a strong odor. It also requires paint thinner to thin. Oil-based paint is very durable and resistant to low temperatures when compared to latex. It applies smoothly and provides adequate coverage.
• Epoxy coating is typically used to seal garage floors. Paint may also be used, but it must be designed specifically to go over cement. Epoxy material is tough against stains, cracks, chemicals, and surface abrasions.

Once you have determined the best type of paint for your garage, you will want to pick a color for your garage space. For the interior, many people like white because it looks clean and bright. However, white is typically not recommended, because dirt and stains will show up more clearly. On the other hand, dark colors may make your garage look small and cramped. Painting garage walls in neutral, light colors can help hide dirt while still providing a natural feel, regardless of your garage’s purpose. Here are a few colors that you may want to consider for inside your garage, as long as the shades are not too dark or vibrant:

• Grey
• Beige
• Taupe
• Blue
• Green

Contact a Chicago Area Garage Specialist

Your garage is an essential part of your home, and so it is important to take care of it. Whether you are repainting, remodeling, or building an entirely new garage, Blue Sky Builders, Inc. can help you determine what products and methods to use. With over 40 years of experience building and renovating custom garages, we can help you find the best ways to enhance your garage. Call our Downers Grove garage remodeling experts today at 630-852-8485 to arrange a free estimate.