A Guide to Paint Finishes
The power of paint is truly endless
A perfect pop of color can turn a once ordinary space into something full of character and life!
As if selecting the perfect color isn’t overwhelming enough, you also must consider paint finishes and application. The sheen of your paint has the potential to add another layer of character to the space you’re transforming. Not sure where to begin with paint sheens? No worries, we’ve broken down the advantages and disadvantages below!
FLAT
Flat paint is the least reflective and most affordable option when it comes to paint finishes. Flat paint is the number one finish to use for very light or very dark walls. It doesn’t rank the highest on the durability scale, but it is the easiest to touch up. Since it reflects such little light, flat paint is perfect for hiding blemishes on your walls. If you’re not opposed to doing touch ups on your own, flat paint is a great option for your walls. If you’re not wanting to deal with the upkeep, then flat paint is best for ceilings or areas with very little foot traffic, such as a formal sitting room or dining room.
EGGSHELL
Eggshell is crowd favorite and a happy medium. Eggshell has a higher sheen than flat paint, but still maintains a more matte look. Eggshell, like flat, is great for hiding blemishes on your walls. The paint gives a velvety, soft finish that’s washable and perfect for a house full of kiddos. Eggshell is great for higher traffic areas like living rooms, dining rooms, and bedrooms.
SATIN
Once dried, satin paint gives a room a pearl-like glow. The higher sheen gives it a higher durability, which makes it perfect for highly used rooms such as children’s playrooms, kitchens, and bathrooms. Satin is also commonly used for kitchen and bathroom cabinets. Although the paint is highly durable, it’s application requires a professional for a perfect finish.
SEMI-GLOSS
Semi-gloss is perfect for places that are frequently cleaned, such as kitchens, bathrooms, or utility rooms. This finish provides a smooth and slick surface that’s slightly reflective. Due to it’s resistance to moisture, this is the perfect finish for cabinets, interior doors, and interior trim.
HIGH-GLOSS
High gloss is extremely shiny, of course! Due to its high sheen, it draws more attention to wall blemishes making the sheen a bit too much for interior walls. It’s perfect for areas prone to dust like your trim and door casing. It can also be used for exterior paint jobs.
A general rule of thumb on paint finishes: the higher the sheen, the higher the durability.
Typically, the higher the durability, the higher the cost, as well. Paint specifics are certainly more vast than this, but we hope this breakdown removes some of the confusion on finishes and helps making the selections for your project a piece of cake!