Complete Guide to Wall Paints: Distemper, APEX, Velvet Touch, Royale, and More - What You Need to Know

Choosing the right wall paint (Distemper VS APEX VS Royale Paint VS Velvet Touch VS Royale Shine VS Royale Aspire VS 3-in-1 Paint VS Plastic Paint VS Oil Bound VS Enamel Paint) can be daunting with the variety of options available in the market. This guide breaks down the differences between various types of paints used in India, helping you make an informed decision based on your requirements.

1. Distemper Paint

What is it?

Distemper is a water-based paint known for its affordability and smooth finish. It’s a basic wall paint with limited durability.

Where and Why to Use It?

Ideal for budget-friendly projects in low-traffic areas like bedrooms and offices. It’s a good choice when you need to paint large areas without high durability requirements.

Why Not to Use It?

It is not very durable, especially in high-traffic areas. It’s also prone to stains and marks and may require frequent repainting.

FAQs:

• Is distemper paint washable? No, distemper is not as washable as other paints and can stain easily.

• How long does distemper last? Typically, it lasts around 1-3 years depending on environmental factors.

• Can it be used for exterior walls? It is generally not recommended for exterior walls, as it is not resistant to weathering.

2. APEX Paint

What is it?

APEX is a premium range of exterior paints designed by Asian Paints, formulated to withstand harsh weather conditions.

Where and Why to Use It?

It’s ideal for exterior walls, offering long-lasting protection against rain, UV rays, and pollution. It’s great for homes in areas with extreme weather conditions.

Why Not to Use It?

Not suitable for interior walls due to its glossy finish and emphasis on durability over aesthetic texture.

FAQs:

• Is APEX paint resistant to rain? Yes, APEX is highly resistant to rain and moisture, making it perfect for exterior use.

• Can I use APEX on interior walls? It’s designed for exterior surfaces, though it can be used indoors for specific high-traffic areas.

• What is the cost of APEX paint? APEX paint is priced between ₹350-₹550 per liter, making it a premium option.

3. Velvet Touch Paint

What is it?

Velvet Touch is a premium interior wall paint with a luxurious finish. It offers a soft, velvety appearance and is available in various colors.

Where and Why to Use It?

Ideal for interior walls that require a high-end finish, such as living rooms and bedrooms. It provides a smooth, silky texture that’s easy to maintain.

Why Not to Use It?

It’s not recommended for high-traffic areas due to its soft texture, which may get damaged over time.

FAQs:

• Is Velvet Touch washable? Yes, Velvet Touch is washable, though it may lose its sheen with repeated scrubbing.

• Can Velvet Touch be used in kitchens or bathrooms? It is not ideal for kitchens or bathrooms, where moisture and stains are common.

• How long does Velvet Touch last? Velvet Touch can last around 5-6 years, depending on the conditions.

4. Royale Paint

What is it?

Royale Paint is a premium range of paints from Asian Paints known for its luxurious finish and durability.

Where and Why to Use It?

It’s best for both interior and exterior walls, offering excellent durability and aesthetic appeal. It’s perfect for those who want long-lasting and high-quality paint.

Why Not to Use It?

The price is on the higher side, and it may not be suitable for those on a tight budget.

FAQs:

• Is Royale Paint resistant to fading? Yes, Royale Paint offers excellent color retention and is resistant to fading.

• Can it be used on metal surfaces? It’s primarily designed for walls, but can also be used on metal with proper priming.

• What is the cost of Royale Paint? Royale Paint costs between ₹600-₹800 per liter, depending on the finish.

5. Royale Shine Paint

What is it?

Royale Shine is a high-sheen paint that provides a glossy and reflective finish, perfect for modern interiors.

Where and Why to Use It?

Best for high-end residential interiors or commercial spaces requiring a sophisticated and shiny finish. It’s also stain-resistant and easy to clean.

Why Not to Use It?

Not ideal for traditional or rustic-style interiors as the glossiness may not blend well with such decor.

FAQs:

• Can Royale Shine be used in kitchens? Yes, its glossy finish makes it resistant to stains, ideal for kitchens and dining areas.

• How long does Royale Shine last? With proper maintenance, Royale Shine can last for 5-7 years.

• What is the cost of Royale Shine? Royale Shine paint is priced around ₹700-₹900 per liter.

6. Royale Aspire Paint

What is it?

Royale Aspire offers a soft sheen finish with a modern look, making it perfect for contemporary home styles.

Where and Why to Use It?

Best for interior spaces where you want a refined and smooth look without the high sheen of Royale Shine. It’s perfect for living rooms, bedrooms, and halls.

Why Not to Use It?

It’s not as resistant to dirt and stains as Royale Shine or other premium paints.

FAQs:

• Is Royale Aspire easy to clean? Yes, it’s relatively easy to clean but not as resilient to stains as Royale Shine.

• Can Royale Aspire be used in bathrooms? Yes, it can be used in bathrooms, but for high-moisture areas, consider a more suitable option.

• How much does Royale Aspire cost? Royale Aspire paint is priced between ₹500-₹650 per liter.

7. 3-in-1 Paint

What is it?

3-in-1 Paint is a versatile solution that combines primer, undercoat, and finish in one product. It’s designed for convenience and quick application.

Where and Why to Use It?

Ideal for DIYers or quick renovation projects. It’s great for walls that don’t require extensive preparation or for cost-effective applications.

Why Not to Use It?

It may not provide the same level of durability or finish as separate primer and paint applications.

FAQs:

• Is 3-in-1 Paint durable? It’s suitable for moderate use but may not offer long-term durability like premium paints.

• Can I use 3-in-1 paint on exterior walls? It can be used outdoors, but for exterior surfaces exposed to harsh conditions, a more specialized product may be better.

• What is the cost of 3-in-1 Paint? 3-in-1 Paint is affordable, typically priced around ₹250-₹400 per liter.

8. Plastic Paint

What is it?

Plastic paint is a water-based paint with a smooth finish, offering durability and easy cleaning for indoor spaces.

Where and Why to Use It?

Used primarily for interior walls, offering a wide range of colors and finishes. It’s great for bedrooms, living rooms, and dining rooms.

Why Not to Use It?

Plastic paint is not ideal for high-moisture areas like bathrooms or kitchens.

FAQs:

• Is plastic paint waterproof? No, plastic paint is water-resistant but not waterproof.

• Can plastic paint be used for exteriors? It’s mainly designed for interiors and should be avoided on exterior walls due to its lower resistance to weathering.

• What is the cost of plastic paint? Plastic paint costs between ₹150-₹300 per liter.

9. Oil Bound Distemper

What is it?

Oil-bound distemper is a semi-gloss paint made with oil and water, offering a more durable finish than regular distemper.

Where and Why to Use It?

Used in areas requiring durability but on a budget, it’s a good choice for high-traffic areas like hallways and corridors.

Why Not to Use It?

It can emit strong fumes during application and may take longer to dry than other types of paint.

FAQs:

• Is oil-bound distemper washable? Yes, it is more washable than regular distemper but less so than premium paints.

• Can oil-bound distemper be used on exterior walls? It’s suitable for both interior and exterior walls, though not ideal for extreme weather conditions.

• How much does oil-bound distemper cost? It costs around ₹100-₹150 per liter, making it a budget-friendly option.

10. Enamel Paint

What is it?

Enamel paint is an oil-based paint known for its hard, glossy finish. It provides a durable and resistant surface, ideal for areas exposed to wear and tear.

Where and Why to Use It?

Enamel paint is great for surfaces that require a tough, glossy finish, like windows, doors, and metal railings. It’s also suitable for furniture and high-traffic areas.

Why Not to Use It?

The application process is more complicated and requires proper ventilation due to strong fumes. It also takes longer to dry and may yellow over time when exposed to sunlight.

FAQs:

• Is enamel paint durable? Yes, enamel paint is highly durable and resistant to chipping, scratches, and fading.

• Can I use enamel paint on walls? While enamel is primarily used for wood and metal surfaces, it can be used on walls if a glossy finish is desired.

• What is the cost of enamel paint? Enamel paint typically costs between ₹250-₹400 per liter, depending on the brand and finish.

Comparison Table

Conclusion

Choosing the right paint depends on the purpose and area of application. Here’s a quick summary of when to choose each:

• Distemper: Budget-friendly, suitable for low-traffic, interior spaces.
• APEX: Best for exterior walls, resistant to rain and weather.
• Velvet Touch: Premium finish for interiors, perfect for those looking for a soft, luxurious look.
• Royale Paint: Durable, high-quality option for both interior and exterior use.
• Royale Shine: Ideal for high-sheen finishes in high-end interior settings.
• Royale Aspire: Soft-sheen finish, perfect for spaces requiring a refined look.
• 3-in-1 Paint: Great for DIY or quick renovation projects, combining primer, undercoat, and finish.
• Plastic Paint: Durable for interiors, but not recommended for exteriors.
• Oil Bound Distemper: Versatile and affordable for areas that experience heavy use.
• Enamel Paint: Best for metal surfaces and areas needing extra durability.

For the most reliable option, assess the durability needs, traffic levels, and aesthetic preferences to make the right choice for your home or office.

• Tags:
• Wall Painting