It’s no secret that painting is one of the quickest ways to change a room in a big way. With hundreds of colors to choose from and five different sheens, getting started may not be an easy task. Today we are going to explain each type of paint finish and why you might choose that specific one! Our hope is that this explanation will make it easier for you to choose the right paint finish for your project.
Flat Finish
Flat finish is the term for paint that has no sheen. This happens because light does not reflect off of the painted surface. Flat finish is great for walls that have any kind of texture because it does a better job of hiding the imperfections than other finishes. The most common areas that flat paint is used are ceilings, textured walls, and low traffic areas. This finish can be difficult when trying to remove any scuffs or markings.
Eggshell Finish
Eggshell is a paint finish that mimics a flat sheen, being only slightly glossier, but it is much more durable. It is easy to clean making it low maintenance and a great nearly shine free choice for most common areas. This finish is commonly used in family rooms and hallways.
Satin Finish
Satin finish is often confused with eggshell but it has a higher sheen and light reflection. This finish is more stain resistant and durable than the previous two sheens. Satin is often selected for areas that are well defined such as trim, shutters, interior doors, or a detailed front door!
Semi-Gloss Finish
Semi-gloss is a high sheen finish that is best used on properly prepared surfaces because it can draw attention to any cracks or dents. Semi-gloss paint is most commonly used on architectural detailing such as trim, molding, and even kitchen cabinets.
Gloss Finish
Gloss is the highest sheen available in a paint finish and offers an elegant shine to its surface. Gloss finish is highly stain resistant and easy to clean. Professional designers often play with gloss paint in unexpected areas such as ceilings, kitchens, and high traffic areas. It can be harder to apply because of its resin content and may be best left to a professional.
When you are deciding which paint finish you should choose, remember to take into account your lifestyle and what type of maintenance you are up for! Don’t be afraid to try something new and see how you like it. We hope that you have learned everything you need to know in order to choose the right paint finish for your home. Leave any questions you have in the comments! Have a great day!