Choosing the Right Paint Sheen

The Top Paint Sheen Options

Flat Paint Finish

At the far end of the paint finish spectrum lie the flat options. Also referred to as a matte finish, flat paints are ideal for low-traffic areas, such as bedrooms, as well as ceilings where irregularities might exist. This type of paint has a non-reflective finish, and touches up well to hide minor surface imperfections. It’s also easy to clean, which from a practical standpoint can make this the best option.

Eggshell Enamel

Eggshell finishes have a soft, almost velvety appearance, and they are a good choice for moderate traffic areas, such as living rooms or dens. Eggshell tends to have a bit more luster than a flat paint, and can actually be easier to scrub clean than a completely flat finish. 

Satin Enamel Paint

Satin enamel paint finishes have a soft, pearl-like appearance. This finish is an excellent choice for moderate to high traffic areas, such as hallways and children’s rooms, as well as areas that have some exposure to moisture, such as kitchens and bathrooms. Satin finishes are excellent at resisting mildew, dirt, and stains, and hold up well under light scrubbing.

Semi-Gloss Paint

Semi-gloss enamel finishes have a sleek, radiant appearance, and can be great for cabinets, trim, and high traffic and high moisture areas. The reflective nature of the semigloss paints are best used in rooms with a strong light source. Areas that are cleaned frequently, such as kitchens and bathrooms, are good options for the application of this type of paint finish. In general, the shinier a finish is, the more durable it will be, thus it being a good choice for high-moisture areas.

High-Gloss Paint

One of the major benefits of high-sheen paint finishes over flat sheens is the depth of color. The higher the sheen, the more vivid and rich your color will appear. This makes it ideal for deep, jewel-toned colors, such as red, forest greens, and navy blues. This finish can be good for wood surfaces, such as trim, cabinets, and doors, but one must be careful that blemishes on these surfaces are as minimal as possible, as shinier surfaces will make flaws stand out more.

When choosing a paint finish, it’s important to consider the area you are painting. Each type of sheen has its own distinct benefits. For more information or to schedule a meeting with a professional painting contractor, contact Endure Painting today!