What is vinyl matt paint — plus why you'll find it in the trade aisle

While knowing how to paint a room is essential, if the variety of paint finishes on offer has left you wondering what is vinyl matt paint, we're here to help. After all, as with any DIY project, getting the right end result is not just about skill and application, but also about using the correct products that both look good and that last.

While matt paints are celebrated for their ability to hide imperfections on surfaces, what you may not realise is that not all matts are equal – and we're not just talking about the brand of paint. It also about the difference between trade and retail products.

We asked Homebuilding's DIY expert, Steve Jenkins to share his expert knowledge to explain what is vinyl matt paint.

Why vinyl matt isn't the same as matt paint

Although matt paints are one of the most prolific paint trends of recent years, the matt paint you may admire in retail colour charts isn't always as strong as you imagine. 

"Vinyl matt paint has a different formula to standard matt paint which means that it is more durable than standard matt paint," says Steve Jenkins, Homebuilding's DIY expert.

"The larger paint manufacturers typically make two versions of matt paint, one for trade – which is the vinyl matt – and one for the consumer, which is typically just matt. I recommend the trade version every time." 

So if you're heading to buy some paint, make sure it says trade on the label or you could be getting less than you bargained for.

Steve Jenkins

Steve is Homebuilding's resident DIY expert with over 20 years of experience in transforming and renovating homes. He specialises in painting and decorating, but has a wide range of skills gleaned from working in the building trade.

What is vinyl matt paint?

"Vinyl matt paint is typically a water based emulsion paint that has a matt finish," says Steve Jenkins. "This means it is a very low sheen paint which has a less reflective surface."

Compared to other types of paint in the emulsion family, such as satin and silk, it's the least reflective of them all with the end result described as 'flat', making matt the preferred choice if you're looking for no shine or reflection at all.

And while all matt paint offers the same non-reflective finish, vinyl matt paint has a resin added to it which makes it more hard-wearing – thereby giving it better longevity once it's applied.

Where should I use vinyl matt paint?

Vinyl matt paint is an emulsion meaning it's most suitable for use inside your home.

"Interior walls and ceilings are the common choice for a vinyl matt paint," says Steve Jenkins, "typically being used in bedrooms and living rooms." 

However, as it's a water based paint, it can't be used everywhere. 

"It shouldn't be used on wood surfaces such as doors, windows and skirting board and it isn't suitable for exterior surfaces," explains Steve. In this instance, you would be better weighing up satin vs gloss or eggshell vs satin.

Does it require special application?

The good news is, even though you are more likely to purchase vinyl matt paint from the trade aisle of your local DIY store, you can still buy it from a retail store it doesn't require any specialist tools or application method.

"As an emulsion paint it can be applied to walls and ceilings with a paint brush, roller or if you have the equipment with a paint sprayer," says Steve Jenkins. 

So whether you're painting a wall or painting a ceiling, you can use vinyl matt in exactly the same was as you would any water based paint.

As an example, this Dulux Trade Natural Hessian Vinyl Matt Emulsion Paint is easily available online from B&Q.

What are the pros and cons?

When asked about the pros and cons of using vinyl matt paint, there's very little to dislike about the product.

"On the down side you will have to pay more for the pleasure of using it," says Steve, "but on the plus side - in my opinion - vinyl matt paint is typically easier to work with, it has a higher opacity so covers well, often meaning less coats and it lasts longer."

"While it is more expensive than everyday matt emulsion, it's easy to apply and covers better than standard matt emulsion. And it provides a durable, good looking finish that won't need repainting as often."

FAQs

Is vinyl matt paint washable?

Despite it's hard-wearing nature, vinyl matt paint will still scuff. It is wipeable with water meaning you can remove light marks with water. However, it's not scrubbable and the flat matt finish can sometimes make it trickier to avoid streaks or water marks once you've wiped it. You may find this more noticeable on darker colours.

Can I use vinyl matt paint in a bathroom?

Vinyl matt paint is not suitable for use in areas such as bathrooms and kitchens where the moisture content in the air is higher.

If you're seeking a matt finish for your bathroom design, specialist products such as this Crown Trade Clean Extreme Matt paint from B&Q would be more suitable.

Ready to start painting now you know which paint to buy? While matt may cover imperfections more effectively, make sure you don't miss out the all important stage of preparing your walls for painting to ensure you get the best finish you can. And if you prefer a roller to a brush, take some top tips from Steve Jenkins on how to paint with a roller for a professional looking finish.