Paint durability depends on several different factors.

First, it is important to realize that paint durability will be affected by the quality of the paint that you purchase. While everyone's budget is a consideration in painting, paint durability may require you to spend a little more money in order to have a paint job that will last. You should also consider that even if a paint goes on smoothly, it will begin to age faster and show signs of wear quicker if the quality of the paint is low. You can always check for paint quality and paint durability by rubbing a dab of the paint between you fingers, if you are unsure about a particular brand. Quality paints will be smooth to the touch, while questionable paints will either be gritty or watery.

Paint durability may also depend on the type of painting project that you will be attempting. For example, oil based paints are popular for use in kitchens and bathrooms because they are considerably more durable than latex or acrylic paints. Oil based paints do take longer to dry, and may require thinners. However, oil based paints are superior in paint durability.

The original surface being painted may also affect paint durability. Sometimes people attempt to paint over wallpaper, which may result in the wallpaper beginning to bubble, ripple or swell. Paint durability is severely affected in this case. The paint that on already on the surface may create complications with paint durability as well. Oil based paints, for example, should not be applied over latex or acrylic paints because the structures in the paint will not complement one another.

The condition of the walls should also be considered in order to have the greatest paint durability. Walls, windows on the wall, and doors on walls should be checked for leaks prior to applying paint. Water that mixes with the paint during or after application can affect paint durability considerably.