Gloss Paints

Learn more about gloss paint

Gloss paint is a high sheen topcoat that reflects light and dries to a smooth, durable surface. That extra sheen makes it easier to wipe down, but it also shows surface imperfections more readily, so preparation is key.

Use gloss paint on interior woodwork such as doors, frames, skirting and architrave, and on prepared metal including radiators and railings. Outdoor gloss paint works on suitable, properly prepared exterior joinery and metalwork where a durable glossy finish is specified.

Typical uses

• Interior skirting and architraves: Coating internal decorative timber trims, door linings, and dado rails with a durable finish.

• Interior and exterior doors: Painting solid timber, veneered, or engineered doors for high-traffic durability and easy cleaning.

• Metal radiators and pipework: Refreshing indoor heating pipework, cast iron radiators, and steel railings using heat-tolerant metal gloss.

• Outdoor window frames and fascias: Weatherproofing external softwood and hardwood window joinery, fascias, and timber gates.

How to choose the right gloss paint

• Start with the system. Oil based gloss paint tends to give a fuller, harder finish and flows well off the brush, but it dries slower and has more odour.

• Water-based gloss paint is quicker drying, lower odour and easier to clean up, which helps on occupied sites.

• Match your choice to the existing coating, as moving between solvent based and water based systems affects adhesion.

• Check whether a primer and undercoat are needed. Bare timber and prepared metal usually need the right primer, and an undercoat builds the base for the topcoat.

• Match the product to the surface, whether that's new timber, previously glossed woodwork, prepared metal or another common material.

• Factor in the sheen level, durability and cleaning needs, particularly in kitchens, hallways and other high traffic areas where washability counts.

• Plan your application method. A good quality brush and the correct roller for the system help you lay off cleanly and reduce brush marks and streaks on the finished surface.

Before you order

• Confirm the surface condition first. Clean off grease and dirt, sand to a key and check adhesion where you're recoating existing gloss.

• Plan the coating system in order, primer, undercoat and topcoat where each is required for the substrate.

• Check the product specifications for coverage, the number of coats and drying times.

• If you're painting over an existing finish, review compatibility carefully, especially when switching between solvent based and water based systems.

Explore our range of gloss paint

Our range covers gloss paint for interior and exterior work, in popular colours including white and black, across both oil based and water based systems. Compare options to find the right product for the task at hand.

Travis Perkins gives you a one stop shop for paint and decorating supplies, with reliable stock availability and the choice of branch collection or delivery.