Introduction
One of the most common questions homeowners and contractors in Kenya ask is: “How do I know which paint to use where?” With so many products available — from emulsion paints to textured coatings and enamels — it can be confusing to make the right choice. The truth is, every paint type is formulated for a specific purpose. Using the wrong paint can lead to peeling, fading, or even costly repairs.
In this guide, we break down the different types of paints available in Kenya, their applications, and examples from popular paint companies like Crown Paints, Basco Paints (Duracoat), and Proffex Paints.
1. Interior Wall Paints
Where to Use: Living rooms, bedrooms, offices, ceilings
Interior paints are designed for smooth finishes, easy cleaning, and a comfortable indoor environment. The two most common types are:
- Vinyl Matt Emulsion – Non-reflective, hides imperfections, great for ceilings and bedrooms.
- Vinyl Silk Emulsion – Has a slight sheen, washable, perfect for high-traffic walls like living rooms and hallways.
Examples in Kenya:
- Crown Paints Vinyl Matt & Silk Emulsion
- Duracoat Vinyl Silk Emulsion
- Proffex Interior Silk Vinyl Emulsion (washable, low-odour, elegant sheen)
Tip: If you want washable walls, always choose silk or sheen finishes over matt.
2. Exterior Wall Paints
Where to Use: Outside walls, fences, boundary walls, facades
Exterior paints are formulated to withstand Kenya’s weather conditions — from the hot sun in Kisumu to the heavy rains in Nairobi. They are UV-resistant, water-repellent, and anti-fungal.
Types of Exterior Paints:
- Weather Guard/Silicone Paints – Protects against rain and sunlight
- Textured Paints – Like granite or rough-cast textures, hide imperfections and add style
Examples in Kenya:
- Crown Paints Weather Guard & Ruff N’ Tuff
- Duracoat Silicone Exterior Emulsion & Real Roc
- Proffex Tough Rock Textured Paint (durable, stylish, weather-resistant)
Tip: For long-lasting results, prepare the wall with an exterior primer before painting.
3. Wood and Metal Paints
Where to Use: Doors, windows, gates, furniture, grills
Wood and metal surfaces face challenges like moisture, rust, and frequent cleaning. That’s why they require oil-based enamels or gloss paints. These paints form a hard, glossy, and protective coat.
Examples in Kenya:
- Crown Paints Super Gloss Enamel
- Duracoat Gloss Enamel
- Proffex Super Gloss Enamel (moisture-resistant, durable finish)
Tip: Always apply an undercoat or primer before using enamel paints on wood or metal for better adhesion.
4. Ceiling Paints
Where to Use: Interior ceilings in homes and offices
Ceilings are prone to smoke, dust, and staining, especially in kitchens and living rooms. Ceiling paints are usually matt, bright white, and non-reflective to give a neat finish.
Examples in Kenya:
- Crown Paints Vinyl Matt
- Duracoat Satin
- Proffex Vinyl Matt Emulsion
Tip: Choose matt finishes for ceilings because they hide imperfections better than glossy paints.
5. Floor Paints and Special Coatings
Where to Use: Concrete floors, garages, factories, hospitals, parking areas
Kenya’s growing industrial and commercial sectors demand floor coatings that can handle heavy foot traffic, machinery, and cleaning. Floor paints and epoxies provide strong, chemical-resistant, and easy-to-clean finishes.
Examples in Kenya:
- Crown Paints Floor Paint
- Duracoat Epoxy Floor Coating
- Proffex Rubber-Based Floor Paint (extra durable for industrial use)
Tip: For garages or warehouses, always choose epoxy or rubber-based paints instead of regular floor paints.
6. Roof Paints
Where to Use: Iron sheet roofs, tiled roofs, concrete slabs
Roof paints in Kenya are often solar-reflective and anti-rust, helping keep homes cooler and extending the life of the roof.
Examples in Kenya:
- Crown Paints Roof Paint
- Duracoat Roof Coat
- Proffex Roof Guard Paint
Tip: Go for heat-reflective colors like white, silver, or terracotta to reduce heat inside your house.
Conclusion
Knowing which paint to use where can save you money, time, and disappointment. The right paint ensures durability, protects surfaces, and enhances the beauty of your home or project.
From interior silk emulsions for stylish living rooms, weather-resistant exterior paints for walls, to super gloss enamels for wood and metal — every surface has a specific paint designed for it.
At Paint Pros Africa, we provide expert advice on paint selection, specifications, and application to make sure your project stands out. Whether you’re painting a house in Nairobi, a resort in Mombasa, or an office in Kisumu — we’ve got the right solution for you.
📞 Contact us today at www.paintprosafrica.com for professional paint consultancy and project support.