Introduction
Whether you’re building, renovating, or simply refreshing your space, knowing the different types of house paints available in Kenya and their uses is essential for making the right choice. From high-performance exterior coatings to elegant interior finishes, the market offers a wide range of paint options suited for diverse applications and environments. In this guide, we explore the most common paints available and how best to use them across different surfaces.
1. Emulsion Paints (Vinyl/Plastic Paints)
Where Used: Interior and exterior walls
Application:
Emulsion paints are water-based paints ideal for walls and ceilings. They dry quickly, have low odour, and are easy to clean up. In East Africa, vinyl silk and matt emulsions are widely used for residential and commercial interiors.
Popular Finishes:
- Silk Finish – Has a soft sheen, elegant, and washable
- Matt Finish – Non-reflective, ideal for hiding wall imperfections
Best For: Bedrooms, living rooms, offices, and light-traffic commercial interiors
2. Weather Guard With Silicone (Exterior Paints)
Where Used: Exterior walls, boundary walls, and facades
Application:
Weather guard paints are designed to resist harsh weather, including intense sun, rain, and dust — common in many East African regions. They provide a tough film, excellent UV resistance, and protect buildings for longer.
Features:
- Water-resistant
- Anti-fungal
- UV-resistant
Best For: Homes, apartments, schools, commercial buildings
3. Textured Paints
Where Used: Exterior walls, accent walls, boundary fences
Application:
Textured paints such as Tough Rock, Granite Finish, or Crystal Finish add both protection and visual appeal. These are thick, stone-like coatings that hide imperfections and enhance wall durability.
Common Types:
- Granular Finish
- Marble Stone Effect
- Crystal Sparkle Textures
Best For: Feature walls, perimeter walls, and areas prone to wear and tear
4. Gloss and Enamel Paints
Where Used: Doors, windows, metal, wood, and furniture
Application:
Gloss and enamel paints are oil-based or solvent-based and offer a high-sheen finish. They’re excellent for surfaces that need frequent cleaning or exposure to moisture and handling.
Variants:
- High Gloss
- Semi-Gloss
- Satin Enamel
Best For: Kitchen cabinets, metallic gates, trims, doors
5. Floor Paints and Epoxies
Where Used: Concrete floors, parking areas, garages, factories
Application:
Floor paints and epoxy coatings offer tough, chemical-resistant, and easy-to-clean finishes. In East Africa’s industrial and commercial sector, these are gaining popularity for their durability and performance.
Types:
- Epoxy Floor Coating
- Rubberized Floor Paint
- Anti-slip Floor Coating
Best For: Warehouses, hospitals, retail spaces, and home garages
6. Roof Paints
Where Used: Iron sheet roofs, tiled roofs, concrete slabs
Application:
Roof paints are formulated to reflect heat and protect against corrosion. They come in heat-reflective and anti-rust options suitable for East Africa’s sunny and rainy conditions.
Features:
- Solar reflectivity
- Anti-rust properties
- UV protection
Best For: Residential and commercial rooftops
7. Wood Finishes and Varnishes
Where Used: Furniture, wooden ceilings, doors, and trim
Application:
Wood paints and clear finishes such as varnish or polyurethane protect wood from weather, insects, and wear while enhancing its natural beauty.
Popular Choices:
- Wood Stains
- Polyurethane Varnish
- Oil-based Wood Preservers
Best For: Home interiors, furniture, and decorative woodwork
8. Industrial and Specialty Coatings
Where Used: Factories, hospitals, tanks, machinery
Application:
Special coatings are designed for harsh conditions or specific functions — such as chemical resistance, hygiene, or fire retardancy. They’re commonly used in large infrastructure and manufacturing projects across East Africa.
Examples:
- Anti-corrosion Paints
- Heat-resistant Paints
- Hygienic Wall Coatings for Healthcare Facilities
Best For: Industry, hospitals, food processing plants
Conclusion
Types of House Paints Available in Kenya and Their Uses vary widely depending on your environment, surface, and purpose. Kenya’s diverse climate and construction styles demand equally diverse paint solutions. Whether you’re painting a new home in Nairobi, renovating a resort in Mombasa, or building a warehouse in Nakuru, choosing the right paint type makes all the difference.
At Paint Pros Africa, we help you make informed choices based on your project’s specific needs. From product selection to expert application — we’ve got you covered.
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