How to Pick the Right Paint Finish

When it’s time to paint a room, choosing a color is exciting—but what about the finish? The finish, or sheen, of your paint is just as important as the color. Let’s break it down so you can easily pick the right one for your space.

What is a Paint Finish?

Paint finish describes how shiny or dull the paint looks when it dries. Some finishes reflect light, while others don’t. Choosing the right one can make a big difference in how a room looks and feels, so it’s worth understanding your options.

Here are the most common types of paint finishes:

1. Flat (or Matte)

Flat paint has no shine at all. It creates a smooth, velvety look that hides imperfections like small cracks or bumps in walls.

Best For:

• Ceilings: Flat paint is great for ceilings because it doesn’t reflect light.
• Low-traffic areas: Use flat paint in bedrooms, dining rooms, or other places where walls won’t get dirty often.
• Keep in Mind: Flat paint is not very washable. If it gets dirty, it can be hard to clean without leaving marks.

2. Eggshell

Eggshell has a tiny bit of shine—just enough to give walls a soft glow. It’s more durable than flat paint but still feels smooth.

Best For:

• Living rooms and hallways: Eggshell works well in areas that get a little more use.
• Moderate traffic areas: It’s easier to clean than flat paint, so it’s a good choice for spaces where you might need to wipe the walls occasionally.
• Keep in Mind: While eggshell is washable, it’s not as durable as glossier finishes, so don’t use it in super messy areas like kitchens.

3. Satin

Satin finish has more shine than eggshell but is not as reflective as semi-gloss. It’s a popular choice for its balance of durability and elegance.

Best For:

• Kitchens and bathrooms: Satin paint resists moisture better, making it ideal for these spaces.
• Trim and doors: Satin can give a polished look to woodwork.
• Keep in Mind: Satin paint will show imperfections more than flat or eggshell finishes, so make sure your walls are smooth before using it.

4. Semi-Gloss

Semi-gloss paint is shiny and very durable. It’s great for areas that need to be cleaned often.

Best For:

• Trim and molding: Semi-gloss highlights architectural details beautifully.
• Bathrooms and kitchens: Its moisture-resistant quality makes it a top choice for these rooms.
• Kids’ rooms: Because it’s so easy to clean, it’s a great option for spaces where little hands might leave fingerprints.
• Keep in Mind: Semi-gloss reflects light, so it can highlight imperfections. Be sure to prepare and smooth your walls before applying.

5. High-Gloss

High-gloss paint is the shiniest of all finishes. It’s super reflective and extremely durable.

Best For:

• Furniture and cabinets: High-gloss adds a sleek, polished look to wood surfaces.
• Accents: Use it to create dramatic focal points, like a shiny black door.
• Keep in Mind: High-gloss paint will show every flaw, so surfaces need to be perfectly smooth.

Tips for Choosing the Right Finish

1. Think About the Room: Where will you be using the paint? High-traffic areas like hallways might need eggshell or satin, while low-traffic spaces can handle flat paint.

2. Consider Durability: Do you need to clean the walls often? If yes, go for a more durable finish like satin or semi-gloss.

3. Test It Out: Buy small samples of your chosen finishes. Paint a small area on the wall to see how it looks in different lighting.

4. Ask a Pro: If you’re still unsure, ask the staff at your local paint store for advice. They can guide you based on your project.

The Bottom Line

Choosing between flat, eggshell, semi-gloss, or other finishes doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Think about how the room will be used and how much wear and tear the walls will face. From smooth and subtle flat paint to durable and shiny semi-gloss, there’s a finish that’s just right for every project.

Take your time, and don’t be afraid to experiment. With the right finish, your walls will not only look great but also last longer!