However, that shouldn’t preclude you from considering the latest product from a company with over 130 years of experience in this area. There’s a consensus that the non-drip part of this product’s title is well-deserved, with a solvent-based formulation designed to minimise splashes and runs during application. Dulux says their range is suitable for internal and external wood and metal. Indeed, the only real downside we can find is it’s not the cheapest product on test — though it still undercuts the 250ml Rustins once you start buying in bulk. Pros The Dulux Once Gloss gets our vote when it comes to one coat perfection! It’s easy to apply, has high durability and is easy to wash. If you’re not an experienced painter and are looking for something that’s not going to leave you with brush marks, this is the paint for you! Water-based gloss is harder to use (not levelling like oil-based gloss) but it won’t yellow with time, which is important for the client. One thing that is important for any decorator is drying time, and water-based gloss has a drying time of around 6 hours. This means you can put second coat on same day. It also doesn’t smell like solvent and finally, your brushes are easier to clean.

We’re big fans of the Ronseal One Coat and would recommend it over any other when it comes to gloss for radiators. If you really want a nice finish with this, we’d recommend giving your radiator a clean and sand down any rusty bits leftover from the old paint. Optionally, you can prime the radiator first with something like BIN Primer. To understand why gloss paint goes yellow, it’s important to first understand the two types of gloss paint available within the UK. Gloss paint, sold in either oil-based or water-based formulas – with oil-based gloss paint the most popular choice among homeowners. You may also need a sash brush, depending on how much intricate cutting in there is. These are great for the tops of skirting board or down the side of architraves. Available online here.Originally developed for ships, the Rust-Oleum Universal Paint is a durable paint and primer combined, offering long-lasting protection from scratches and scrapes. You’re not likely to get much rust on your skirting boards, but this paint is nevertheless very popular, offering exceptional coverage with its unique formulation. It’s easy to apply and delivers a smooth finish. Unusually for an oil-based paint, it touches dry in two hours and can withstand storms at sea, as well as bad treatment from the most boisterous family members.

In 2010 came the introduction of the European Union’s Industrial Emissions Directive (IED – Directive 2010/75/EU) which puts emission limits on Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC) contents within industrial activities. This directive is then enacted in the UK by the Environmental Permitting (England and Wales) Regulations 2010 SI 675. The result is a restriction of VOC contents within the paint industry. Whilst the practicality of the paint is its strong point, it actually looks really good too. Unlike cheaper brands, you’ll find that once it’s dried, it won’t less any of its sheen. While it’s personal preference when choosing what type of paint base to use, either oil-based or water-based. For the best results and to avoid yellowing of gloss paint the solution is a high-quality water-based paint, A Water-based gloss paint will not yellow over time.Don’t forget to put down a dust sheet to protect the areas you don’t want to get paint on. And always wear a mask when sanding otherwise you’ll end up with a mouthful of dust! There are 32 other colours beyond the Pure Brilliant White we’re testing here, including Absolute White and Ultra White. There are also eight different finishes — the gloss we’re testing here is part of a range that includes eggshell, soft sheen and silk. Water-based paints benefit from reduced drying times compared to oil-based paints and can often be dry to touch within an hour or two. While they often need multiple coats to be fully opaque the reduced drying time means the task of re-application does not have to be a lengthy process. Last but not least, you want a foam roller for the larger flat areas. These help you apply an even layer of gloss in less time, thus achieving a better finish. Any foam roller will do, but the Rota Concave stands out as the best, simply because their shape means you avoid tram lines. Available online here. Finally, if you have a period home and want to keep your skirting boards looking like natural wood, you can go for a wood-stain paint and have the dado and picture rails to match. Oil or water-based paint?