How to Choose the Right Paint Finish
Choosing
the right paint finish depends on how much traffic or moisture that
area in your home gets. Let us help pick what’s best for you.
It’s not just about the color; you have another important decision to make. Selecting the type of paint sheen can have as much or more impact on how a paint meshes with your decorating vision.
The type of sheen you select will depend on what you’re painting. For example, high-traffic areas of the home generally use a different sheen than low-traffic areas. You’d be unlikely to use the same sheen in a bathroom as you would in a family room.
Here’s a guide to the types of sheen offered by paint manufacturers – and what they mean.
Flat – No shine at all. A flat sheen offers a beautiful matte finish, perfect for low-traffic areas. Remember: bumps and scuffs are easier to see on flat sheens.
Eggshell – A smooth finish with a subtle sheen. Perfect for rooms with moderate traffic. As a bonus, eggshell sheens are and washable, so scuffs can be removed.
Satin – The ideal balance of very subtle gloss but easily washable. Most rooms work great with a satin sheen.
Semi-Gloss – Get ready to shine. Offers durability high-traffic, high-moisture areas of the home, like bathrooms, kitchens, and kids’ rooms. Great for trim, too.
High-Gloss – Super durable and very reflective. Best for room accents like trim, molding, doors, and cabinets.
Ceiling Flat – A matte finish paint made specifically for ceilings, designed to complement any interior sheen while hiding minor surface imperfections.
