Choosing the Right Paint Finish: Matte, Gloss, & Everything In-Between
Do you know the difference between flat, eggshell, and high-gloss paint?
When it comes to the wide world of paint, in case you weren’t aware, there’s more to choosing the right pick than simply picking out a color. You also have to consider factors like the quality and coverage of the paint and the finish, also commonly referred to as the “sheen”.
Let’s uncover the five main different types of paint finishes below and when you might want to use each one.
What is a Paint Finish?
A paint’s finish, otherwise known as its sheen, is simply a way of referring to its measure of glossiness. The level of glossiness or dullness that a paint displays is in turn determined by its makeup.
The glossier a paint is, the more resin and less pigmentation it has. The duller a paint is, the more pigmentation and less resin it has.
Generally speaking, you can apply any paint sheen to any surface safely, but there are good reasons to use one vs. another depending on the application. We’ll get into that more later, but for now, let’s explore more about each of the five different paint finishes.
What Are the Five Paint Sheens?
1. Flat or Matte
Flat paint or matte finish paint is about as “dull” as it gets. Providing virtually no gloss, flat paint reflects almost no light. It does a good job of hiding imperfections. It’s also commonly used on ceilings. (Think about it; have you ever seen a shiny ceiling? Probably not!)
One of matte paint’s biggest drawbacks is the inability to clean it easily. For this reason, it’s not generally used on walls.
2. Eggshell
Eggshell paint has a soft appearance that has some reflectiveness or sheen, reminiscent of the exterior of an egg’s shell. It’s not quite glossy, but it’s also not flat.
The subtle sheen adds a little bit of “polish” to eggshell paint compared to flat paint, but it also makes it a lot easier to wipe clean, making it a more durable choice for most applications.
3. Satin
Satin paint is sometimes also referred to as pearl finish paint or low-luster paint.
Whatever you call it, this paint sheen sits squarely in the middle of the glossiness meter for paints, making it extremely versatile. It’s the lowest-gloss paint finish generally recommended for high-traffic areas or areas with moisture for which easy cleanup is a must.
Many professional painters consider it the best paint finish for bathrooms and kitchens as well as home exteriors.
4. Semi-Gloss
Semi-gloss paint has plenty of luster and moisture resistance. It’s also easy to clean. This makes it the lowest-gloss paint finish generally used on trim and molding. But it is also suitable for kitchens and bathrooms or other high-traffic/high-moisture areas.
For large surface areas, like walls, the higher levels of reflectivity can accentuate imperfections.
5. High-Gloss
High-gloss paint offers an almost mirror-like finish. This makes it extremely easy to clean and maintain.
If you’re looking to paint a surface that needs a high level of protection and one that you want to be able to clean easily like kitchen cabinets, doors, or trim and molding, consider a high-gloss paint. That said, if you’re painting interior walls, high gloss paint may not be the best choice.
Which Paint Finish is Best for Me?
Each paint finish has its pros and cons, as we’ve just reviewed. But which paint finish is truly best for each application? Here are our recommendations:
- High-Traffic Areas: Satin or semi-gloss (hallways, kitchens, bathrooms)
- Living Spaces: Eggshell or satin (living rooms, dining rooms)
- Bedrooms: Eggshell
- Trim and Doors: Semi-gloss or high gloss
- Ceilings: Flat or eggshell
Get Help Choosing Between Paint Finish Types
At Groovy Hues, we are here to make your next painting project go smoothly.
Get answers to all your painting FAQs here.
Need help choosing between different paint finishes? Whether you’re searching for the best bathroom paint finish or exterior home paint finish, we can help.
We have the expertise required to not only help you choose the right paint sheen but also complete any painting project quickly and professionally, the first time around.
Reach out anytime with questions, or get your free painting estimate today.
