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Wall & Ceiling Paints
When it comes to painting walls and ceilings, choosing the right products is crucial for achieving a professional, long-lasting finish. At Rawlins Paints, we offer a range of specialist wall and ceiling paints designed for those who demand optimal coverage, exceptional colour options, and solutions to common issues like damp, mould, and high traffic. Whether you’re a homeowner looking to refresh your space or a professional decorator handling complex projects, our products provide the quality and durability you need.
Subcategories
Watco Industrial Wall Coating
A tough wall coating for industrial environments, production and storage areas. For use on concrete, brick, render, plaster, and painted surfaces. Special non-drip formula Exceptional covering power means only one coat is needed Water based formula Fast drying and easy to apply Coverage Calculator More Information Delivery Info
HMG Acrylic Eggshell
Water-based mid-sheen finish decorative emulsion in 3,500+ colours (5L only) that provides a durable, washable finish, resistant to condensation. Ease of use Quick drying Low odour Please note: Colours are sold in the nearest tin size but actual paint volume per tin may vary up to 10% depending on colour.
HMG Contract Matt Emulsion
A water-based decorative trade matt emulsion in white and magnolia that has excellent opacity that improves as the paint dries. Excellent results can be achieved with a single coat. Designed for easy application on interior plaster walls and ceilings.
HMG Vinyl Silk Emulsion
A premium quality water-based, silk emulsion in 3,500+ silk colours for interior use. For use on wall and ceiling surfaces, where a high sheen finish is required. Water based. Tough washable finish. Quick drying. Good opacity. Easy application. Please note: Colours are sold in the nearest tin size but actual paint volume per tin may...
HMG Vinyl Matt Emulsion
Premium quality water-based, flat matt emulsion in 3,500+ colours. For interior use on wall and ceiling surfaces, where a flat non-reflective finish is required. Please note: Colours are sold in the nearest tin size but actual paint volume per tin may vary up to 10% depending on colour. Order a Colour Sample
Zanders Cover Coat Vinyl Matt
1,600+ Matt Colours. High-quality emulsion for interior use. For plaster, plasterboard, and previously painted surfaces. Excellent durability and opacity. Quick drying. Buy A Colour Paint Sample
Zanders Walls, Doors & Trim
This product will soon be discontinued at Rawlins; we can recommend Zinsser Perma-White Interior Satin as a great alternative. Please note: it is important to check that any alternative product is suitable for your requirements, as our suggestion is given in good faith but without warranty. If you are in any doubt please first contact our...
Zinsser Ceiling Pro 5 in 1
Flat white, non-yellowing finish. Suitable for sealing, priming, stain blocking, finishing, and crack bridging on ceilings. Fast-drying with a recoat time of just 1 hour. Water-based with low VOC content, ensuring low odour. Contains biocide to protect against fungal degradation. Easy application with brush, roller, or airless spray.
Zinsser Peel Stop
A clear flexible binding primer designed to seal and prevent peeling. Suitable for use on both interior and exterior surfaces including wood, metal, masonry, and more. Glues down edges of old paint and bridges cracks to provide a sound surface for topcoats. Binds chalky surfaces, preventing future peeling and ensuring a durable finish....
Hanford & Green Acrylic Matt
5,000+ Colours. Flat, chalky matt finish. For interior gypsum plaster, plasterboard, and timber surfaces. High scrub resistance, low VOC content of 10g/l. Extremely low odour. Optional Microsafe or Splashgard additives. Order A Colour Sample (Standard) Order A Colour Sample (Tinted)
Hanford & Green Acrylic Low Sheen
5,000+ Colours. Low Sheen Acrylic Paint for interior gypsum plaster, plasterboard, timber surfaces, high humidity and moderate traffic areas. Microsafe or SplashGard additives available. Virtually no odour, low VOC. Scrub resistant. Dry to recoat in as little as 20 minutes. Order A Colour Sample (Standard) Order A Colour Sample...
Britannia Heavy Duty Matt Emulsion
This product is temporarily unavailable; in the meantime, our technical team recommend Zinsser Allclean Scrubbable Interior Matt as a great alternative. Please note: it is important to check that any alternative product is suitable for your requirements, as our suggestion is given in good faith but without warranty. If you are in any doubt...
Watco Wallseal
Seals and hardens new and old dusty, porous walls, stopping dust and making them easy to clean. Microporous, allowing the surface to breathe. Penetrates, dustproofs and hardens in just one coat with minimal darkening effect on most surfaces Silky, low sheen finish – stain resistant and easy to wipe clean More Info View Similar...
Zinsser Gardz
A clear, water-based, acrylic resin sealer. Can be used on damaged drywall, new drywall, plaster, calcimine, residual wallpaper adhesive, textured walls, and popcorn ceilings. Penetrates deeply into porous surfaces to create a hard, moisture-proof film. Prevents drywall blistering and bubbling by sealing and binding surfaces. Strengthens...
Flag Vinyl Emulsion
High quality water-based obliterating vinyl emulsion available in a white or magnolia matt or silk finish. Manufactured using premium quality resins for extra strength and flexibility. Designed for the decoration of walls and ceilings where maximum washability and resistance to wear and tear are required. Ideal for use on concrete and wood....
Zinsser Drywall Pro 2 in 1
Primer sealer in a white finish. Ideal for sealing and priming new and damaged drywall, plaster, and porous surfaces. Works with all paints and wallcoverings. Prevents drywall damage during redecoration. Fast drying with a recoat time of 3 hours. Water-based with low VOC content.
Zinsser Wallpaper Cover-Up
All-in-one primer, sealer, and stain blocker in an off-white matt finish. Designed to obliterate wallpaper print and prevent blistering of wallpaper. Effective at blocking water-soluble stains, providing a smooth finish for any coloured emulsion. Fast drying with touch dry time of 2-4 hours and recoat time of 4 hours. Suitable for use on...
Bradite HD Floor + Wall
450+ Colours. Two-pack water-based epoxy floor and wall coating. For interior concrete, wood, and steel floors and walls. Quick drying and flexible.
Keim Design Base Masonry Paint Additive
Sol-silicate based, pigment-free additive for KEIM Design-Lasur. Used as thinner for KEIM Design-Lasur to achieve translucent colour designs. For interior and exterior application. Siliceous Weathering-proof Unpigmented Density: approx. 1.1-1.2 g/cm3 pH-value: approx. 11 Cradle to Cradle Certified Silver Consumption Rate Samples...
Keim Design Fixativ
A sol-silicate based primer and thinner for KEIM Design-Lasur. Used as pre-treatment for strongly absorbing substrates and as dilution for most transparent finishes with KEIM Design-Lasur. Absolutely lightfast Weatherproof Resistant to environmental influences Mineral matt Cradle to Cradle Certified Silver Consumption Rate Samples...
Keim Design Lasur Masonry Paint
A sol-silicate based paint system in 250+ colours for use on mineral surfaces to provide a colourwash or semi-transparent finish. Offers water repellency, vapour permeability and forms a chemical crystalline bond with the substrate. Mixed with Keim Design Fixativ or Keim Design Base to create finishes with varying degrees of translucency for...
Keim GW Primer (Ecosil Grund)
A silicate-based primer coat, used as an internal base coat to equalise different absorbencies on repaired or filled surfaces. Equalises surface. Levels surfaces. Good adhesion. Cradle to Cradle Certified Silver. Note: The name of this product will change in early 2023 - also known as Keim Ecosil Grund Consumption Rate Samples
Tikkurila ProSeal
A waterborne primer with good penetrating properties. To be used for absorbing surfaces before applying BioRid, BioRid Spray or Tikkurila+AsbestGuard. Suitable for priming of interior walls and ceilings, on absorbing substrates. Can also be used for binding loose or badly bonded asbestos material and binding asbestos dust, or after...
Keim Colourwash Textured Undercoat
Keim Colourwash Textured Undercoat is an aggregated opaque white paint used for creating surface texture on bare and previously painted interior wall and ceiling surfaces prior to the application of Keim Colourwash Base. Brush Application Flat Matt Finish Coverage: Approx. 3m²/kg Highly vapour permeability Anti-fungal and anti-algae No...
Keim Colourwash Lime Primer
Keim Colourwash Lime Primer is a primer made of pure potassium silicate and small organic additives used to regulate or reduce the absorbency of lime plaster and other highly absorbent mineral substrates, prior to the application of Keim Colourwash Base or Keim Colourwash Textured Undercoat. Brush Application Silicifies insolubly with the...
Keim Colourwash
Keim Colourwash is a ready-mixed translucent paint for interior decorative finishes, and must be applied over KEIM Colourwash BASE Suitable for bare and previously painted walls and ceilings Does not require diluting, noncaustic UV stable Flat matt finish Chemically bonds to the substrate or mechanically to existing paint Eco &...
Keim Colourwash Base
Keim Colourwash Base is a single-coat opaque white sol-silicate paint suitable for interior bare and previously painted walls and ceilings. For use as a base coat for Keim Colourwash. UV-stable, non-caustic, no dilution required No solvents, plasticisers or preservatives Very low odour Chemically bonds to the substrate or mechanically to...
Graphenstone Nevada Ultra Colour
Economical, breathable interior matt emulsion for walls, ceilings, and low traffic areas. Perfect as an obliterating coat over strong colours and for use as an interior mist coat/primer for preparing bare surfaces. Excellent coverage – 12-16m2/l with 1 coat. Available in 6 colours from RAL, BS and NCS. Also available in White....
Graphenstone Nevada Ultra White
Economical, breathable interior matt emulsion for walls, ceilings, and low traffic areas. Perfect as an obliterating coat over strong colours and for use as an interior mist coat/primer for preparing bare surfaces. Excellent coverage – 12-16m2/l with 1 coat. Also available in 6 colours from RAL, BS and NCS.
Graphenstone Ambient Pro+ Masonry Paint
A natural, photocatalytic paint in 80+ colours for interior walls and ceilings, exterior walls and masonry. Purifies the air** through CO2 absorption* and reduces ambient odours. Breathable – Class 1 vapour open; reduces condensation & allows walls to ‘breathe’. Hygienic – Naturally inhibits mould & bacteria. Excellent coverage –...
Graphenstone Ecosphere
A breathable, premium lime based paint for interior use. Absorbing CO2 as it cures in the first 30 days* following application, it has impeccable environmental and sustainability credentials. Hygienic – Naturally inhibits mould & bacteria. Fire resistant – BS Class 0 (specification required). Excellent coverage - 10-14m2/L per coat....
Graphenstone GCS Interior
Class 1 vapour open, premium ecological, natural mineral based paint in 78 colours for interior use on walls and ceilings. Ideally suited for use in heritage buildings and older properties, where a traditional mineral finish and fully breathable paint system is required. Fire rating – BS Class ’0’ Excellent coverage – 12-16m2/l per coat....
Graphenstone Grafclean Eggshell Masonry Paint
Premium ecological, natural mineral based paint in 1,000+ colours for interior and exterior use. Perfect paint for the highest traffic areas – including walls and interior woodwork , where a washable, durable paint is needed. Suitable for plaster, gypsum, mortars, old paint, prefabricated panels and unlaminated wallpaper, brick or perlite....
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Why Choose Specialist Paints from Rawlins Paints?
Unlike cheaper, mass-market options, the paints and emulsions available at Rawlins Paints are formulated for those who prioritise quality. We understand that quality is paramount when it comes to wall and ceiling paints, so, our range of specialist paints and emulsions is designed for those who demand more than just a splash of colour - they want long-lasting results, superior coverage, and solutions to everyday challenges like damp, mould, and high traffic.
With our extensive selection of colours and a bespoke colour match service, you can achieve the perfect finish that not only looks stunning but performs exceptionally well for years to come.
Understanding Emulsions and Specialist Wall Paints
Emulsions are water-based paints that are commonly used for interior walls and ceilings. They are composed of pigment particles suspended in a liquid medium, typically water, which makes them easy to apply, quick to dry, and simple to clean up. Emulsions come in a variety of finishes, such as matt, satin, and silk, offering versatility in both residential and commercial settings.
While emulsions are excellent for general use, specialist wall paints offer additional benefits tailored to specific needs. These include the following, which we discuss in more detail further down:
- Anti-condensation properties for preventing moisture build-up.
- Mould-resistant formulations that are ideal for damp environments.
- Fire-retardant paints that enhance safety in high-risk areas.
- Hygienic finishes for environments where cleanliness is paramount, such as healthcare facilities and kitchens.
- Durable, scrubbable surfaces designed for high-traffic areas.
Specialist paints are enhanced with advanced ingredients that provide superior performance compared to standard emulsions, making them ideal for tackling specific challenges in various settings.
Application Methods: Roller vs. Brush
The method of application can significantly affect the quality of your finish:
- Rollers: Ideal for covering large, flat surfaces quickly and evenly, rollers are the preferred tool for most walls and ceilings. They create a smooth finish with minimal texture and are available in different pile lengths to suit various surfaces. Use a medium pile roller for most interior applications, and a long pile roller for textured surfaces.
- Brushes: Essential for cutting in around edges, corners, and intricate areas like mouldings and trim, brushes offer precision and control. Synthetic bristle brushes are best for water-based paints like emulsions, while natural bristle brushes are more suited to oil-based products.
Painter and Decorator Tips: Achieving a Professional Finish
Achieving a flawless finish requires more than just high-quality paint; it also depends on using the right techniques. Here are some expert tips from professional painters and decorators:
- Prepare Thoroughly: Start with a clean, dry surface. Remove any dirt, grease, or old paint, and fill cracks or holes. Use a primer like Zinsser Bulls Eye 1-2-3 to ensure the paint adheres well and lasts.
- Cut in First: Always cut in with a brush around edges, corners, and trim before rolling the rest of the wall. This ensures clean lines and avoids roller marks near the edges.
- Maintain a Wet Edge: When rolling, work in manageable sections and maintain a wet edge to avoid lap marks. Overlap slightly with each pass and roll in consistent directions for a uniform finish.
- Invest in Quality Tools: High-quality brushes and rollers are essential for a smooth finish. They hold more paint, distribute it evenly, and minimise issues like bristle loss or lint on the surface.
- Two Thin Coats Over One Thick Coat: Applying two thin coats instead of one thick coat ensures better coverage and a smoother finish. Allow sufficient drying time between coats to prevent peeling or blistering.
- Check Your Lighting: Lighting can drastically affect how a colour appears. Check the paint in different lighting conditions before making your final decision, as colours can shift between natural and artificial light.
- Don’t Skip the Primer: Priming is crucial, especially when covering dark colours, new plaster, or stained surfaces. It creates a solid base for your topcoat and enhances the durability of the finish.
Extensive Colour Range and Colour Match Service
At Rawlins Paints, we offer an extensive selection of colours from the RAL, NCS, and British Standard colour charts, ensuring you can find the perfect shade to complement your space. Whether you’re aiming for classic neutrals, bold statement colours, or soft pastels, our range caters to every style and preference.
For those who wish to match an existing colour scheme or replicate a shade they’ve seen elsewhere, our colour match service provides a bespoke solution. Whether you need to match paint to furnishings, existing walls, or a favourite design feature, our experts can create the exact hue you need, ensuring seamless integration with your décor.
Choosing the Best Paint for Walls and Ceilings
Vinyl Matt Emulsion: The All-Rounder for a Smooth Finish
Vinyl matt emulsion is a go-to for creating smooth, even finishes in spaces like living rooms, bedrooms, and other low-traffic areas. Its non-reflective surface hides imperfections, making it ideal for older properties or walls with minor flaws. HMG Vinyl Matt Emulsion and Zanders Cover Coat Vinyl Matt provide excellent opacity and coverage, perfect for achieving a classic look.
- Tip: In rooms with indirect lighting or minimal wear and tear, vinyl matt is a top choice. Its flat finish is highly favoured by interior designers for creating a sophisticated backdrop that allows décor to shine.
Vinyl Silk and Satin Emulsions: Perfect for High-Traffic Areas
Vinyl silk and satin emulsions are excellent for high-traffic areas like kitchens, bathrooms, and hallways. Their slight sheen makes them easier to clean and more durable against scuffs and marks. HMG Vinyl Silk Emulsion is particularly effective in spaces where durability and washability are priorities.
- Style Note: Use silk finishes in rooms that benefit from extra light reflection, such as kitchens or bathrooms. The subtle gloss not only enhances light but also adds a touch of elegance to functional spaces.
Flat Matt and Eggshell Finishes: For a Timeless, Elegant Look
Flat matt paints like Graphenstone GrafClean Matt and Keim Optil deliver an ultra-matt finish that hides imperfections, making them perfect for ceilings and walls in living rooms and bedrooms. Eggshell finishes, such as Zanders Walls, Doors & Trim, offer a delicate sheen that’s durable enough for woodwork but refined enough for walls.
- Designer’s Insight: Eggshell is increasingly popular in high-end interiors, providing a balance between durability and a subtle sheen. Use it in high-traffic areas or rooms that require frequent cleaning for a touch of elegance.
Specialty Paints for Specific Needs
When standard emulsions aren’t enough, specialist paints offer targeted solutions:
- Anti-Condensation Paints: Suretherm Thermal Anti-Condensation Paint prevents moisture build-up and is ideal for kitchens and bathrooms.
- Mould-Resistant Paints: Glixtone Fungi-Shield is perfect for damp areas, preventing mould growth for the lifetime of the paint.
- Damp-Proof Paints: Watertite Waterproofing Paint blocks moisture, making it ideal for basements or areas prone to dampness.
- Fire Retardant Paints: Zinsser Ceiling Pro 5 in 1 offers fire retardancy along with priming, sealing, and stain-blocking capabilities.
- Hygienic Wall Paints: Perma-White Interior Paint provides a durable, mould-resistant finish that withstands moisture and frequent cleaning, making it perfect for healthcare settings and kitchens.
- Scrubbable/Washable Paints: AllClean Matt is designed for busy households, offering a durable, stain-resistant finish that’s easy to clean.
Wall and Ceiling Paints & Emulsions FAQs
What paint is best for damp areas?
Watertite Waterproofing Paint is specifically designed to block moisture and prevent damp patches. It withstands water pressure and is ideal for basements or areas prone to dampness. Additionally, its mildew-resistant properties ensure that walls remain dry and free from fungal growth.
How do I effectively cover dark walls or stubborn stains?
To cover dark colours or tough stains, use Zinsser B-I-N Primer-Sealer. This product is specially formulated to block even the most persistent stains, including water marks, nicotine, and smoke, ensuring that your new topcoat goes on smoothly and evenly.
Can I paint over wallpaper?
Yes, painting over wallpaper is possible with the right preparation. Zinsser Wallpaper Cover-Up is designed to seal and prime the wallpaper, preventing the pattern from showing through and ensuring a smooth surface for your paint. This product saves time by eliminating the need to strip wallpaper, making it ideal for quick renovations.
What’s the difference between matt and satin finishes, and where should I use them?
Matt finishes provide a non-reflective surface that is ideal for low-traffic areas like bedrooms and living rooms, where you want to hide imperfections and create a calm, sophisticated atmosphere. Satin finishes have a subtle sheen that reflects light and is more durable, making them perfect for high-traffic areas such as kitchens and bathrooms, where surfaces need to be wiped clean regularly.
How can I prevent mould in high-moisture areas?
Mould-resistant paints like Zinsser Perma-White Interior Paint are designed to prevent mould and mildew growth in damp areas. These paints contain antimicrobial agents that inhibit mould formation, making them ideal for bathrooms, kitchens, and basements. For added protection, consider using Suretherm Thermal Anti-Condensation Paint, which reduces condensation—a common cause of mould.
What type of paint should I use for skirting boards and trim?
Skirting boards and trim benefit from a durable, non-yellowing finish like Zanders Walls, Doors & Trim. This paint offers excellent coverage and durability, ensuring that woodwork remains pristine and easy to clean over time.
Why is priming necessary, and when should I use it?
Priming is essential for ensuring that the topcoat adheres properly and lasts longer. It’s especially important when painting over porous surfaces, transitioning between dark and light colours, or covering stains. Zinsser Bulls Eye 1-2-3 is a versatile primer that works on various surfaces, providing a solid foundation for your paint.
How do I prepare new plaster for painting?
New plaster must be sealed before painting to prevent the paint from soaking in unevenly. Use Zinsser Gardz to seal the plaster, ensuring a smooth, even finish and reducing the risk of peeling or cracking.
How do I remove mould before painting?
Before painting, treat affected areas with Glixtone Sterilising Solution to eradicate mould spores and prevent regrowth. This step is crucial for ensuring that the mould doesn’t return after painting.
What’s the best way to paint trim and mouldings for a clean finish?
For trim and mouldings, use a high-quality synthetic bristle brush and a durable paint like Zanders Walls, Doors & Trim. Apply the paint in long, smooth strokes for an even finish. Taking your time with these detailed areas will result in a professional look.
How do I achieve a professional finish on ceilings?
Use Zinsser Ceiling Pro 5 in 1 for ceilings. This paint covers well, resists yellowing, and bridges hairline cracks, resulting in a bright, flawless finish. For best results, apply the paint with a medium pile roller and maintain a wet edge to avoid lap marks.
How do I paint over previously painted surfaces?
For glossy or previously painted surfaces, Zinsser Bulls Eye 1-2-3 provides excellent adhesion without the need for sanding. This primer ensures that your topcoat bonds well and delivers a lasting finish.
What paint should I use in high-traffic areas?
High-traffic areas like hallways and children’s rooms require a durable, scrubbable paint like Zinsser AllClean Scrubbable Interior Matt. This paint withstands frequent cleaning without losing its sheen, making it perfect for busy households.
How do I prepare surfaces with peeling paint?
Use Zinsser Peel Stop to stabilise peeling surfaces before painting. This binding primer locks down loose paint edges and creates a smooth, sound surface for your topcoat.
What paint should I use for metal surfaces?
For metal surfaces, Zinsser Cover Stain is ideal. This primer provides excellent rust protection and ensures a smooth, even finish for your topcoat.
If you have a question which has not been covered in these FAQs, or have a specific project requirement, please use the search option on the site, this category’s sidebar filter or sub-category links, or contact our Technical and Product Support Team by phone, email or live chat.
What Rawlins’ Customers Say:
Don’t just take our Technical Support Teams’ words for it, here’s what our customers have to say about wall and ceiling paint they have purchased from our store:
The information provided above is a basic overview and is intended as general information only. It is not advice, and is given without warranty. You should always refer to the relevant data sheets and our Technical Team prior to purchase or use of any products.