When it comes to paint, choosing the right finish is a major decision. You’ll need to choose between gloss, semi-gloss, satin, eggshell & flat paint. If you’re baffled by all these choices, this blog post will help. We’ll walk you through the various paint types, glosses, and sheens so you can make the right choice for your project.
Whether you’re choosing paint for a new home or touching up walls that have lost their luster, there are lots of finishes to choose from.
Interior paints come in different levels of sheen: gloss, semi-gloss, satin, eggshell, and flat. When choosing the right paint, you’ll need to decide on the look you want and how durable you want the finish to be.
Gloss
Paints are the shiniest paint finish. They’re also the most durable and washable, so they can handle daily scrubbing. Consider this paint for doors, trim, and cabinetry. In addition, gloss can also be used as an outdoor detail as well, on things like shutters. However, preparation work is important when using this finish as it can show imperfections when applied incorrectly.
Semi-gloss
A semi-gloss finish will show up all of the wall imperfections. However, this finish is easy to clean, durable, moisture resistant, and long lasting. Its versatility makes it a good choice for kitchen and bathroom cabinets and trim.
Satin
A slight amount of light reflects off a satin finish, making the texture more noticeable. Satin paint types come in different sheens, like eggshell (which can also appear between a flat and satin). Along with its higher sheen, satin is stronger than flat paint. Consider applying it in kids rooms or any high traffic area where you frequently scrub the walls.
Flat
Provides a non-reflective, smooth appearance that hides surface blemishes like nail holes and patches. Flat paint requires fewer coats than higher gloss paints and is easier to touch up. It’s also the least durable paint finish. Perfect for new construction, drywall, ceilings and low-traffic areas like adult bedrooms and dining rooms. Cleans easily with a damp sponge.
When you’re choosing a paint finish, you should consider:
- The size of the room
- How much traffic the room will receive
- How much light comes into the room
- The condition of the walls
- Whether you’ll need to scrub any surfaces
- How often you’re willing to touch up your paint
- The look you want to achieve
- Other finishes you’re using in the room, such as trim
