When it comes to choosing the right black paint for your walls, there are a few key factors to consider including finish, sheen, quality, and price. In this comprehensive guide, we will examine the top black wall paint options on the market and provide tips for choosing the best black paint for your needs.
How Does Sheen Affect Black Paint?
One of the most important decisions when selecting black paint is the sheen, also known as paint finish. Sheen refers to the degree of light reflection the dried paint has, and it directly affects how the black color is perceived. Here are the key sheen types to consider for black paint:
Matte: This flat finish reflects very little light, muting the black color. Matte works well for hiding imperfections. It has a casual, subtle look.
Eggshell: Slightly more sheen than matte, this also softens the black color. Eggshell finishes resist dirt and are easy to clean.
Satin: With moderate light reflection, satin offers a smooth black color that’s stylish but not too bold. It’s a popular choice for walls.
Semi-gloss: The mid-to-high sheen makes black much bolder with this finish. It’s sleek and elegant but will also show imperfections.
Gloss: High-gloss finishes reflect the most light for a deep, dramatic black look. They highlight flaws and require careful surface prep.
Generally, lower sheens like matte and eggshell work best for dark black walls. Higher gloss finishes can look striking but require flawless application. Consider the overall look you want and how much wall prep is needed. Satin is a versatile middle ground.
How Should You Prep Walls for Black Paint?
One of the keys to success with any dark wall color is proper surface prep. Because black paint shows every imperfection, you’ll want walls to be as smooth and blemish-free as possible first. Here are some tips:
– Fill any holes, cracks or imperfections with spackle then sand smooth.
– Remove any wallpaper or adhesive residue. Wash walls to remove dirt and grease.
– Apply primer before painting for maximum adhesion and coverage.
– For glossier finishes, you may need skim coating or additional sanding between coats.
Take time prepping walls and removing flaws for the best looking black walls. Priming also helps the black color go on evenly. For intense black shades, consider priming walls black first.
What Type of Black Paint Works Best?
When researching black paints, you’ll find you can choose from standard latex wall paints to more advanced options like acrylics and epoxies. Here’s an overview of the best black paint types:
Latex: Most big box store wall paints are latex-based. Latex paint is affordable, flexible and easy to apply. It works well for flatter black finishes.
Acrylic: Offering greater durability and weather-resistance than latex, acrylic paints provide a rich, glossy black finish.
Epoxy: Two-part epoxy paints are extremely durable and create a high-gloss, piano-like black surface. They require expert application.
Chalkboard: Specialty chalkboard paints allow you to create a wall you can write on with chalk. Black is the most popular color option.
For most DIYers, a high-quality latex or acrylic wall paint will provide the best looking black walls. Make sure to get paint intended for interior walls, as other paint types like craft paint won’t withstand washing.
How Many Coats of Paint Are Needed?
Black paint often requires an extra coat or two for full opacity and an intense black color. Here are some guidelines on coats needed:
– Matte or eggshell latex paint may require 3-4 coats for full coverage.
– Satin or semi-gloss latex may require 2-3 coats for best color depth.
– Gloss latex enamel may only need 1-2 coats due to higher pigment load.
– Darker black tones require more coats than lighter shades like charcoal gray.
– Primer coat(s) do not count toward the final coat tally. Always prime first.
Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations on dry time between coats. Test blacks out on sample boards first to see its hiding power. In general, the flatter the finish, the more coats required.
What Are the Best Brands of Black Paint?
When selecting a top-quality black wall paint, some popular brand options include:
| Brand | Known For |
|---|---|
| Behr | Trendy colors, affordable latex paint |
| Benjamin Moore | Premium paint, extensive black shades |
| Sherwin-Williams | Durable paints, expert recommendations |
| Rust-Oleum | Specialty finishes like chalkboard |
| PPG | Professional-quality paints, stain-blocking |
When available, choose the higher or professional grade paints from brands like Benjamin Moore and Sherwin-Williams for the deepest blacks. Read reviews to pick the specific black shade that works best from each brand’s offerings.
What Are the Best Black Paint Colors and Names?
There are many creative and stylish black paint color options for walls. Here are some of the most popular shades of black from major brands:
Benjamin Moore: Carbon, Onyx, Caviar, Midnight Oil, Black Beauty
Sherwin-Williams: Tricorn Black, Black Magic, Black Ice, Peppercorn, Super Black
Behr: Black, Satin Black, Flat Black, Blackened Cavern, Black Cat
Valspar: Boss Black, Liquid Black, Black Flame, Black Radiance, Galaxy Black
PPG: Pure Black, Black Velvet, Black Night, Licorice, Black Currant
Rust-Oleum: Chalkboard Black (chalk paint)
Look for deep black tones with creative names that appeal to you. Be sure to view swatches or black paint samples before committing to a gallon. Benjamin Moore, Sherwin-Williams and Behr offer black paint colors with warmer red or brown undertones that can complement home decor well.
Should You Use Flat or Satin Black Paint?
The decision between a flatter black matte or eggshell paint vs. a richer satin finish comes down to the look you want and your wall’s condition:
Reasons to use flat black paint:
– Hide wall imperfections better
– Soften and mute the black color
– Reduce light reflections
– Easier touch-ups
Reasons to use satin black paint:
– Bolder, deeper black color
– Reflects more light for visual interest
– More washable and durable
– Shows off wall textures
For damaged or imperfect walls, flat paints like Behr’s Blackened Cavern hide flaws well. Satin finishes like Sherwin-Williams Tricorn Black better accentuate surfaces like paneled walls. Lighting conditions also affect sheen perception. Test both on your walls.
How Much Does Black Paint Cost?
Cost for black wall paint depends on the brand, quality, and gloss level. Here are some typical price ranges:
Standard latex wall paint – $20 to $35 per gallon
This includes big box store brands like Behr and Valspar in flat or eggshell finishes.
Mid-grade acrylic paint – $40 to $60 per gallon
Benjamin Moore’s Regal Select acrylics fall in this range in satin.
Premium acrylics/enamels – $60 to $90 per gallon
High-end lines like Sherwin-Williams Emerald come in around this price point.
Specialty paints – $40 to $100 per gallon
Includes chalkboard paints, art paints, or ultra-high end brands.
Consider paying a bit more for premium black wall paints for deeper pigments and better hide. Look for sales at paint stores or DIY retailers. Flat finishes tend to be cheaper than glossier sheens.
Should You Paint Trim and Ceilings Black Too?
Black walls make a dramatic impact on their own, but what about extending the color to ceilings, trim or doors? Here are some tips:
– Black ceilings can create an intimate, cocoon-like feel in a room. Use a flat finish to minimize drips.
– Black trim helps walls blend seamlessly together. Match sheens to keep the look cohesive.
– Black doors make a stylish accent. Use high-gloss paints for bold distinction.
– For a lighter look, keep ceilings and trim a bright white or off-white. Use as contrast.
Take black in small doses at first on accent walls or feature areas. Painting all surround surfaces black risks feeling too dark and cavelike. Accent with lighter metals, mirrors and art for balance.
Should You Use Black Paint in a Small Room?
Contrary to popular belief, black paint can work beautifully in small rooms and spaces. The key is keeping finishes and accents light. Here are some small room black paint tips:
– Use black on just one accent wall as a focal point. Keep other walls light.
– Choose a soft flat black paint to avoid closing in the space.
– Bright white trim prevents black from feeling too heavy or dark.
– Reflective surfaces like gloss floors and metal finishes keep black polished.
– Layer in well-lit mirrors, art and pendant lights.
Black paint adds sophistication and style to any room when done right. Incorporate plenty of lighting, play with metallic accents, and use black in moderation in small rooms for stunning results.
Conclusion
Choosing the perfect shade of black paint comes down to the right finish and formula for your walls and room. A top-quality acrylic or latex paint like Benjamin Moore’s Onyx or Sherwin-Williams Tricorn Black makes a fail-safe choice that dries to a lustrous, dramatic black finish. Budget-friendly brands like Behr also offer trendy black hues. Prep walls thoroughly, pay attention to sheen and gloss level, and primer first for flawless black walls that make a striking style statement.