When it comes to painting interiors, selecting the perfect color is just the beginning. The finish or sheen of your paint plays a significant role in the overall look and feel of a room. From matte to high-gloss, each sheen offers unique characteristics that can enhance or alter the visual appeal of your space.
Let’s take a quick tour of the different sheens of paint finishes:
Let’s discuss the 5 types of Paint Sheen:
- Flat/Matte Finish: Flat or matte finishes have a low luster and absorb light, resulting in a non-reflective surface. This makes them ideal for hiding imperfections on walls and ceilings. However, flat finishes are prone to marks and may not be as durable or washable as higher gloss options.
- Eggshell Finish: Eggshell finishes have a subtle sheen that falls between flat and satin. They offer a soft, velvety appearance and are more washable than flat paints. This makes eggshell suitable for areas with moderate traffic such as living rooms, dining rooms, and bedrooms. Eggshell finishes provide a slight reflection of light, adding depth to the color while still maintaining a relatively matte appearance.
- Satin Finish: Satin finishes have a gentle sheen that reflects more light than eggshell, giving walls a soft glow. They are durable and easy to clean, making them suitable for high-traffic areas like kitchens, bathrooms, and hallways. Satin finishes resist stains and moisture, making them a practical choice for spaces that require frequent maintenance.
- Semi-Gloss Finish: Semi-gloss finishes have a noticeable shine and are highly durable and washable. This makes them ideal for areas prone to moisture, such as kitchens, bathrooms, and trim work. Semi-gloss provides a smooth surface that resists stains and can be easily wiped clean. Semi-gloss finishes also reflect more light, brightening up a room and adding visual interest.
- High-Gloss Finish: High-gloss finishes offer the highest level paint sheen, creating a shiny, reflective surface. They are extremely durable and easy to clean. This allows the high gloss sheen to be suitable for areas that require scrubbing, such as doors, trim, and furniture. High-gloss finishes can make colors appear more vibrant and intensify the visual impact of a room.
When choosing the right sheen for your paint project, consider factors such as the desired aesthetic, the level of durability required, and the amount of natural light in the space. Whether you prefer the understated elegance of a matte finish or the polished glamour of a high-gloss shine, there’s a paint sheen to suit every style and need. So, go ahead, experiment with different finishes, and transform your space into a reflection of your personality and taste. If you need help choosing colors, check out our visualizers, here.
Visiting a local paint store like Sherwin-Williams or Benjamin Moore will help you better decide when looking at the differences of paint sheens. Flanagan Paint Supply in Wentzville is one of our favorite to visit.
