Baseboards and Door Jambs

• Interior trim subject to duress requires a durable finish that's relatively stain-resistant. If you apply a low-sheen satin or flat latex paint to baseboards, door jambs and any other interior trim work that must endure knocks and scuff marks, chipping and staining may occur. For a durable finish that is easy to clean, apply a semi-gloss or gloss latex paint. Each of these finishes contains chemicals that provide an attractive, enduring sheen that is easy to clean.
  
  

Crown Molding

• Because crown molding rests high on a wall, it does not require a particularly durable finish. Many homeowners choose semi-gloss and gloss paint for their crown molding, because they like the appearance of a reflective, high-gloss sheen. Others prefer a muted sheen that doesn't refract a lot of light. If you agree with the latter, choose a flat or eggshell latex paint for your molding. These paints aren't stain-resistant and can't hold up to consistent duress; however, they are durable enough for crown molding and many find them very attractive.
  
  

Heavy-duty Duress

• If you are painting interior trim subject to consistent, heavy-duty duress, a semi-gloss or gloss latex paint may not prove durable. Trim in work areas exposed to bumps from carts, lumber and boots requires an even stronger finish. If you need to paint trim located in a high-traffic work area, opt for a strong, acrylic enamel.
  
  

Considerations

• No matter what type of paint you choose for your trim, peeling will occur if you don't prime the trim work first. Apply latex primer to bare wood trim work before you paint. If the trim is stained, water-based latex primer won't adhere. For a lasting finish, pre-treat stained interior trim with a shellac-based primer.