7 min read · Finishing materials

Paint — emulsion, enamel, texture and distemper explained

Paint is the final layer your home presents to the world — and the first thing visitors notice. Choosing the right type, finish and brand makes a significant difference in appearance and durability.

Simple summary — for homeowners

For interior walls, use a premium emulsion like Asian Paints Royale or Dulux Velvet Touch — the extra cost over distemper is worth it for washability and durability. For exterior walls, always use a dedicated exterior emulsion — interior paint will peel within a year outdoors. Never skip primer — it is not optional. For doors and metal grills, use enamel paint. Distemper is acceptable only for utility areas like store rooms or garages where appearance is not important.

Paint types comparison

Type
Finish
Durability
Washable
VOC
Cost/sqft
Emulsion (Interior)
Matt/Silk/Sheen
5–8 years
Yes
Low
₹18–55/sqft
Emulsion (Exterior)
Matt/Sheen
8–12 years
Yes
Low
₹22–60/sqft
Enamel paint
Gloss/Semi-gloss
4–6 years
Yes
High
₹15–40/sqft
Distemper
Matt
2–4 years
No
Low
₹8–18/sqft
Texture paint
Textured
8–15 years
Yes
Low
₹35–120/sqft
Epoxy paint
Gloss
10–20 years
Yes
Medium
₹40–90/sqft
Primer
Matt
N/A
No
Medium
₹8–20/sqft

Emulsion vs Distemper

Distemper
Cheapest paint option available
Not washable — stains are permanent
Chalks over time — leaves residue on contact
2–4 year lifespan
No moisture resistance
Acceptable only for non-living areas
Premium emulsion
Washable — clean with damp cloth
Scrubbable versions available for kitchens
5–8 year lifespan with good preparation
Low VOC — safe for children
Available in thousands of shades
Worth the extra ₹10–20/sqft over distemper

Correct painting process

01
Surface preparation
All loose paint, dust and oil must be removed. Cracks must be filled with putty and sanded smooth. This step determines 70% of the final paint quality — never rush it.
02
Apply wall putty
Wall putty fills micro-pores and creates a smooth base. Apply 2 coats of putty, sanding between coats. Without putty, paint will show every imperfection in the plaster.
03
Apply primer
Primer seals the surface, improves paint adhesion and reduces paint consumption. Always use the primer specified by the paint brand. Interior and exterior primers are different.
04
Apply 2 coats of top coat
Never apply one thick coat — always apply two thin coats. Allow minimum 4 hours drying time between coats. Two thin coats give better coverage and durability than one thick coat.
05
Allow full curing
Paint is touch-dry in 2–4 hours but takes 7–14 days to fully cure. Avoid washing walls or placing furniture against walls for at least 7 days after painting.

Brand comparison

Brand
Type
Applied cost/sqft
Asian Paints Royale
Interior emulsion
₹35–55/sqft applied
Excellent
Dulux Velvet Touch
Interior emulsion
₹40–60/sqft applied
Excellent
Berger Silk
Interior emulsion
₹30–50/sqft applied
Excellent
Asian Paints Apex
Exterior emulsion
₹38–58/sqft applied
Excellent
Nerolac Excel
Exterior emulsion
₹32–52/sqft applied
Good
Jotun Essence
Interior emulsion
₹28–45/sqft applied
Good
Homekrate recommendation
Basic
Jotun Essence interior + Asian Paints Apex exterior
Good quality at reasonable cost. Includes putty and primer.
Standard
Asian Paints Royale interior + Apex exterior
Our default. Excellent washability, wide colour range, proven durability.
Premium
Dulux Velvet Touch interior + Asian Paints Apex Weatherproof exterior
Finest finish, best washability, longest durability.
More guides
Flooring guideWaterproofingDoors & windows
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