Introduction:
When planning an interior painting project, most homeowners focus on choosing the perfect color. But did you know that the paint’s finish—or sheen—is just as important? The right finish can affect how a color looks, how durable the surface is, and how easy it is to clean. With different needs for every room in your house, here’s a guide to help you choose the perfect paint finish.
Understanding Paint Finishes (Sheen)
A paint’s finish refers to how much light it reflects. Finishes range from no shine (flat) to very shiny (gloss). Here are the most common types and where to use them:
1. Flat or Matte Finish
- Sheen Level: No shine.
- Best For: Low-traffic areas like formal living rooms, dining rooms, and adult bedrooms. It’s also the standard choice for ceilings.
- Pros: Its non-reflective surface is excellent at hiding minor imperfections on walls. It creates a smooth, modern look.
- Cons: It’s the least durable finish and is difficult to clean without burnishing (creating shiny spots).
2. Eggshell or Satin Finish
- Sheen Level: Low to medium sheen.
- Best For: This is the most popular choice for most rooms, including living rooms, family rooms, hallways, and kids’ bedrooms.
- Pros: Offers a great balance of durability and a soft, elegant look. It’s much easier to clean than a flat finish. Satin is slightly more reflective and durable than eggshell.
- Cons: The slight sheen can highlight wall imperfections more than a flat finish.
3. Semi-Gloss Finish
- Sheen Level: Noticeably shiny.
- Best For: High-traffic and high-moisture areas. Think kitchens, bathrooms, laundry rooms, and especially trim, doors, and baseboards.
- Pros: Highly durable and very easy to clean. Its moisture-resistant properties make it perfect for rooms with steam and splashes.
- Cons: The high shine will magnify any and all imperfections on the wall’s surface, so prep work is critical.
4. Gloss Finish
- Sheen Level: Very shiny, almost like plastic or enamel.
- Best For: High-use surfaces that you want to highlight, such as trim, doors, cabinets, and furniture.
- Pros: The most durable and easiest to clean of all finishes. It creates a bold, striking look.
- Cons: It is unforgiving and will show every single bump, crack, or roller mark. It is typically reserved for perfectly smooth surfaces.
Conclusion
Choosing the right finish is key to a successful interior painting project. By matching the sheen to the room’s function, you’ll get a beautiful result that stands up to your family’s lifestyle.
Feeling unsure about which finish is right for you? Schedule a complimentary estimate with Eclipse Painting and our experts will help you make the perfect choice!