Emulsion Paint

Emulsion paint is a water-based option used on interior walls and ceilings. Made from water, pigment and resins, it provides a durable and smooth finish.

Emulsion is easy to apply, quick to dry, and can provide a long-lasting, vibrant colour on interior surfaces.

Emulsion paint is available in several finishes, each offering unique aesthetic and functional benefits:

Matt:

Known for its non-reflective finish, matt emulsion hides imperfections, making it ideal for interior walls and ceilings. It’s perfect for creating a soft, elegant look.

Silk:

Offering a subtle sheen, silk emulsion paint reflects light, providing a smooth and sophisticated appearance. It’s great for feature walls and areas with high foot traffic.

Eggshell:

This finish has a soft, mid-sheen quality that’s perfect for wood, metal and interior walls. Acrylic eggshell emulsion paint offers extra durability and easy cleaning, especially for high-use areas.

Emulsion paint offers many benefits over other paint types, making it a popular choice for interior decorating. Its water-based formula makes it simple to apply and quick-drying, allowing for faster project completion with minimal effort. This makes it ideal for beginners to DIY.

Unlike oil-based paints, emulsion is low odour and has low VOC content, making it a more environmentally friendly option that won’t make your house smell.

Its durable finish is fade-resistant, ensuring your walls maintain their vibrant colour for years to come. Additionally, emulsion is crack-resistant, easy to clean, and can be mould inhibiting, providing long-lasting protection and a fresh look with minimal maintenance.

When choosing the right emulsion, consider the surface being painted. For newly plastered walls or smooth surfaces, matt emulsion is ideal for achieving a flat, even finish.

For areas like kitchens or bathrooms, where extra durability is needed, silk or satin emulsion works better as they’re easy to wipe clean. For woodwork, consider acrylic eggshell emulsion paint for its superior protection and finish.

The lifespan of emulsion paint depends on factors like the quality of the product and the surface it’s applied to. Premium paints like Dulux Heritage last longer, providing a durable finish that resists stains and fading.

On average, emulsion paints last between 5 to 10 years, but areas with high wear may require new coats sooner.

While you can paint wood with emulsion, you need to choose the right emulsion type. Opting for eggshell emulsion is a good choice, as it is specially formulated for surfaces like timber.

Emulsion is not the best choice for radiators, as it may not withstand the heat and could peel or discolour. For better results, use radiator paint, which is designed to handle higher temperatures.

If you do choose to use emulsion, acrylic eggshell or fast-drying silk finishes would offer better durability and heat resistance.

Dulux Colour Futures is a premium range of emulsion paints offering a variety of shades to transform your home. Inspired by global design trends, the collection blends classic and contemporary hues to enhance any space.

From calming neutrals to bold, vibrant tones like 2025’s True Joy, there’s a perfect shade for every project. Whether you’re painting an accent wall or an entire room, Dulux Colour Futures delivers versatility and style.

Plus, at Builder Depot, we offer free paint samples so you can test colours at home and find your ideal match. With Dulux Colour Futures’ high-quality, easy-to-apply formulas, you’ll achieve a stunning, durable finish that lasts.