by michael daigle · 9 Jan 2024You finally decided to tackle that interior paint job you've been putting off. Great! Now comes the fun part of picking out colors and finishes. The options these days seem endless. Do you go with matte, satin, eggshell, semi-gloss or high-gloss? The choices can be overwhelming.
Let's break it down by room. For living rooms and bedrooms, matte or satin finishes are perfect. They provide subtle sheen and a luxurious feel. In high-traffic areas like hallways, staircases and kids' rooms, consider durable satin or eggshell. Bathrooms and kitchens demand moisture-resistant semi-gloss or gloss.
Not sure where to start? Think about how much light each room gets and how much scrubbing the walls can handle. A foolproof way to choose is by sticking with the same finish throughout your home for a cohesive flow. But have fun with it—you can't go wrong! Now grab those paint chips, roll up your sleeves and dive in. Your newly polished palace awaits!
Introduction to Paint Finishes: Matte, Gloss, and More
When picking out paint for your home, the finish is just as important as the color. The finish determines how shiny or matte the paint will be, which affects both appearance and durability. Here's an overview of the major paint finishes so you can choose what's right for your space.
Matte finish
Matte or flat paint has a dull, non-reflective finish that helps hide imperfections in walls and ceilings. It's a great choice for areas where you want an ultra-smooth look, like living rooms or bedrooms. The downside is that matte paint is difficult to clean and stains easily.
Eggshell finish
Eggshell has a soft, velvety sheen that resists stains better than matte while still hiding flaws. It works well for living rooms, dining rooms, and hallways. Eggshell paint is washable but may require an extra coat for the most durable finish.
Satin finish
A satin or low-luster finish has a subtle sheen and is one of the most popular choices for walls. It resists moisture and stains and is easy to clean, making it ideal for high-traffic areas like kitchens, bathrooms, and kids' rooms. Satin paint may require an extra coat for an even finish.
Semi-gloss finish
Semi-gloss paint has a medium-level shine that stands up well to scrubbing and moisture. It's a great choice for trim, doors, cabinets, and bathrooms. Semi-gloss paint highlights imperfections in walls though, so it's not usually used on large, open surfaces.
Glossy finish
Glossy or high-gloss paint has a shiny, reflective sheen that is extremely durable and moisture-resistant. It works best for trim, cabinets, doors and accents. However, glossy paint shows every flaw and requires multiple coats for an even finish, so it can be difficult to work with.
The Subtle Sheen of Eggshell and Satin Paints
Eggshell and satin paint finishes give your walls a subtle sheen without the glossy look of semi-gloss. They’re great for most living areas where you want a hint of shine but not an overtly shiny finish.
The Low-Key Look of Eggshell Paint
Eggshell paint has a soft, velvety appearance with a slight sheen. It’s more durable and scrubbable than flat paint but less shiny than satin. Eggshell is a fantastic choice for high-traffic areas like hallways, living rooms, and kid’s rooms. It hides minor imperfections in walls and is easy to clean.
Satin Paint for a Subtle Glow
Satin paint has a silky, medium-sheen finish that brings walls to life with a faint glow. It has the richness of eggshell but with a smokey, luminous quality. Satin is ideal for bedrooms, dining rooms, and home offices - any space where you want a hint of depth and radiance. It stands up well to cleaning and scratches but may show more imperfections in walls than eggshell.
The Best of Both Worlds
Can’t decide between eggshell or satin? Consider a soft satin finish. It offers the velvety look of eggshell with the merest touch of satin’s silky sheen. Soft satin paint is a fantastic, versatile choice for most rooms in your home.
In the end, choosing between eggshell or satin comes down to the level of sheen you want and how much light reflects off your walls. Eggshell and satin paints give you stylish, liveable finishes without the glare of glossier options. Your walls will thank you for the subtle sophistication.
Matte Paint Finish - Flat and Velvet Explained
Matte paint finishes have little to no sheen, giving walls a flat, non-reflective look. Matte paints come in several varieties:
Flat
Flat paint is completely non-reflective, absorbing light rather than reflecting it. It hides imperfections well but is difficult to clean and stains easily. Use flat paint for ceilings or in low-traffic areas like bedrooms.
Velvet
Velvet paint has a soft, velvety appearance with just a hint of sheen. It offers better stain resistance and durability than flat paint. Velvet paint works well for living rooms, dining rooms and hallways.
Matte paints provide an ultra-smooth finish but require more frequent touch-ups. They show imperfections and require an additional coat of primer. Matte paints are a good choice if you want to minimize surface imperfections or create a rustic look.
Matte paint requires frequent dusting and is hard to clean when stained. Use a damp cloth to spot-clean matte walls and touch up paint as needed. For the best results, use a high quality matte paint and apply at least two coats.
Popular brands of matte paint include:
-Sherwin Williams Cashmere Low Luster
-Benjamin Moore Regal Select Matte
-Behr Premium Plus Ultra Matte
Matte paint creates an understated, homey feel that complements both traditional and modern decorating styles. For a custom look, have matte paint color-matched to your wallpaper, upholstery or linens. Matte walls also make a perfect backdrop for displaying art, photos and accessories.
When choosing a matte paint, consider the level of traffic and wear-and-tear in your space. Matte finishes may not suit high-use rooms or areas where scrubbable or washable walls are needed. For those spaces, consider paints with a satin or eggshell finish which offer more durability and moisture resistance.
Gloss Paint Finish for Bold Accents
A gloss paint finish creates a shiny, reflective coat that highlights architectural details like trim, molding, and built-ins. Use it sparingly for bold accents in spaces where you want to make a statement.
Kitchens and bathrooms
In kitchens and bathrooms, gloss paint is ideal for cabinets, shelves, and trim. The durable, moisture-resistant finish is easy to wipe clean and prevents water damage. For cabinets, consider gloss paint on just the doors for a budget-friendly pop of shine that still protects the cabinet boxes.
Trim and accents
Apply gloss paint to baseboards, window and door trim, crown molding, and chair rails. The reflective sheen helps these elements stand out and accentuates their shape and detail. Use the same tone as your wall color for cohesion or a contrasting shade for drama.
Built-ins
Bookcases, media consoles, benches, and other built-ins are elevated by a gloss paint finish. The slick surface prevents dust buildup and high-lights the piece's lines and form. For a modern look, paint built-ins the same color as the walls. For a more rustic feel, use a darker shade of gloss paint.
•Use painter's tape for crisp lines and to protect adjacent surfaces.
•Apply 2-3 coats, waiting 2 hours between coats.
•Use a high quality angled brush for trim and small areas.
•Rollers can leave stipple marks, so use a high-density foam roller and roll in different directions.
•Clean and lightly sand between coats for optimal adhesion.
•Topcoat with a clear polyurethane for added protection.
While tempting to use on large expanses like walls, too much gloss paint can seem harsh and uninviting. Reserve it for accents and let the sheen make a memorable statement in an otherwise matte or satin space. With strategic application, gloss paint creates focal points that give rooms depth and dimension.
Semi-Gloss for High-Traffic Areas That Need Cleaning
Semi-gloss paint is a great choice for high-traffic, high-use rooms that need frequent cleaning like kitchens, bathrooms, and hallways. The slight sheen provides durability and moisture-resistance, yet it's not too shiny. Semi-gloss paint is easier to wipe down and clean compared to flat or matte paint. It stands up well to scrubbing and repeated washings without showing wear or tear.
- Scrubbable and moisture-resistant. Semi-gloss paint contains polymers that create a durable, protective coating. It can withstand exposure to steam, splashes, and spills without blistering or peeling. You can scrub away marks and stains without damaging the finish.
-Resists stains.The smooth, glossy surface prevents stains from penetrating and makes them easier to wipe away before they set in. Grease, grime, and splatters slide right off with a damp cloth. For stuck-on messes, use a degreaser or a paste of baking soda and water.
-Reflects light. Semi-gloss paint has a softly lustrous sheen that helps brighten rooms by reflecting ambient light. The subtle glow can make spaces appear more open and airy. In windowless rooms like bathrooms, the reflective quality helps enhance what natural light is available.
-Provides an easy-to-clean surface. The slick, non-porous finish deters dirt and debris from clinging to walls. Dust and cobwebs can be swept away with a duster or soft brush. Splashes and splatters wipe right off without leaving behind water spots. For stuck-on stains, use a sponge or scrubber and a multi-surface cleaner. Rinse well with water and let air dry.
-Tough and long-lasting. Semi-gloss paint contains binders and resins that create an durable finish. When properly applied, it can last 5-10 years before needing a touch up. In high-traffic areas, it may require more frequent cleaning and spot repainting to maintain an attractive appearance. Re-coating walls with a fresh coat of semi-gloss paint restores the surface and provides continued protection.
Specialty Finishes Like Metallic and Chalk Paint
Chalk paint and metallic finishes are creative ways to add character to your space. These specialty paints can transform an ordinary wall into a work of art.
Chalk Paint
Chalk paint is a popular decorative finish that creates a matte, distressed look. It adheres to almost any surface without priming. The soft, velvety finish soaks in the natural imperfections of the wall, giving it depth and texture. Once dry, you can distress chalk paint by sanding the edges and surfaces to create a rustic patina. Then seal it with a clear wax or lacquer for protection. Chalk paint comes in a variety of earthy hues like sage, crimson and cobalt.
Metallic Paint
Metallic paint contains mica or aluminum flakes that reflect light to produce a glimmering, shimmering effect. Copper, pewter and gold are common metallic shades, but you can also find rose gold, silver and gunmetal. Metallic paint makes a bold statement and is ideal for accent walls, trim, cabinets or furnishings. It requires a primer and protective clear topcoat.
For the best results with metallic paint, apply two coats, waiting for each coat to dry completely between applications. Use a high quality brush and roll the paint on in even strokes. Metallic paint shows imperfections easily, so take your time. The final coat may require a spray-on lacquer for an ultra-smooth finish with maximum shine.
•Specialty paints add vibrancy and depth.
•Chalk paint creates a rustic, distressed patina.
•Metallic paint provides a glamorous shimmer.
•Seal specialty paints with a protective topcoat.
•Use a high quality brush and apply in even coats.
Whether you want to make a bold statement or achieve a timeworn patina, specialty paints like chalk paint and metallic finishes offer creativity for every room. Experiment with different colors and techniques to create custom looks for your space.
Matching Paint Finish to Room Function and Lighting
The finish you choose depends a lot on how the room is used and how much natural light it gets.
In high-traffic, high-use rooms like living rooms, hallways and kids’ rooms, a durable satin or eggshell finish is a great choice. These provide decent durability and washability without too much sheen. Flat paint can show marks and stains too easily in busy spaces.
For low-light rooms without much natural illumination, consider an eggshell or satin finish. The soft sheen helps reflect more light around the room, making the space appear brighter. A dead flat finish can make a dark room seem dreary.
Kitchens and bathrooms demand highly washable paints like satin or semi-gloss. These finishes stand up well to moisture and frequent cleaning. Glossy paint is too shiny for most homes, but works in some bathrooms and laundry rooms.
Ceilings are best painted in flat or matte finishes which help hide imperfections. Satin or eggshell finishes on ceilings can make the slight texture or unevenness more apparent.
Trim and doors often look great in a satin or semi-gloss finish. These provide definition and contrast with walls, and the harder finish is more durable. Matte or flat paint on trim lacks richness and depth.
For an accent wall, consider a finish with more sheen like satin or eggshell. The subtle gloss helps the wall stand out and reflects more light. A dead flat accent wall won’t achieve the same effect.
By choosing a paint finish suited to the room and lighting conditions, you’ll end up with results you’ll appreciate for years to come. The right amount of sheen or gloss makes all the difference in a space. Not too much, not too little, but just right.
Pro Tips for Choosing the Right Paint Finish
When choosing a paint finish, consider the room and how much wear and tear the walls typically see. The finish determines how durable and washable the paint will be. Here are some pro tips to help you select the right one:
Matte for low-traffic areas
Matte paint, also called flat paint, has no sheen and hides imperfections well. It’s ideal for ceilings and low-traffic areas like bedrooms. However, it’s difficult to clean and stains easily.
Eggshell for hallways and living rooms
Eggshell paint has a soft, velvety sheen and is moderately durable and washable. It’s a great choice for hallways, living rooms, and dining rooms. Eggshell paint resists stains better than matte but may require an additional coat of paint for the best coverage.
Satin for high-traffic, high-wear areas
Satin paint has a medium sheen and is very durable and scrubbable. Use it for trim, doors, cabinets, and bathrooms. Satin paint is resistant to stains, moisture, and scratches, so it stands up well to frequent cleaning and wear and tear.
Semi-gloss for kitchens and kids’ rooms
Semi-gloss paint has a high sheen and is extremely durable and washable. It’s ideal for kitchens, bathrooms, and kids’ rooms where walls tend to get dirty quickly. The higher sheen also helps highlight architectural details. However, imperfections in the wall surface will show through.
Gloss for trim and doors
Gloss paint has a shiny, reflective sheen and the highest durability of all the paint finishes. Use it for trim, doors, cabinets, and areas that get a lot of use and require frequent cleaning. Gloss paint is non-porous and stain-resistant but shows imperfections prominently.
•For the best results, apply at least two coats of paint, waiting 2-4 hours between coats.
•Use a high quality primer for the best coverage, especially when changing from a dark to a light shade.
•Consider the lighting in each room and how it will affect the appearance of the finish. Matte and eggshell paint may look dull in rooms with little natural light.
•Test the paint finish on an inconspicuous area first to ensure you like the results before painting the whole room.
FAQ on Paint Finishes for Different Rooms
You probably have a lot of questions when it comes to choosing paint finishes. Here are some of the most frequently asked ones:
How do I know which sheen is right for my room?
The sheen you choose depends on the room and how much light it gets.
- Flat or matte paint works well for ceilings and walls in low-traffic, low-light rooms like bedrooms. It hides imperfections but isn’t scrubbable.
- Eggshell or satin is good for living rooms, dining rooms and hallways. It has a soft sheen and is washable.
- Semi-gloss is ideal for kitchens, bathrooms, trim and doors. It’s highly durable and moisture-resistant.
- Glossy or high-gloss paint has an enamel-like finish. Use it for trim, cabinets and doors that get a lot of wear and tear.
Do I need to prime before painting?
Priming helps the new paint adhere better and provides an even base coat. You’ll want to prime:
- Drywall, concrete, wood and metal surfaces.
- Dark colors if you're painting over with a lighter shade. Primer will prevent the old color from bleeding through.
- Patched or repaired areas. The primer will ensure even sheen and color.
How many coats of paint do I need?
For the best results, apply at least two coats of paint, waiting 2-4 hours between coats. Dark or bright colors may require an extra coat for an even finish. Thin or uneven coats won’t provide good coverage.
Can I paint over wallpaper?
It’s best to remove wallpaper before painting. If removing it isn’t possible, you can paint over it with a primer designed specifically for wallpaper, followed by at least two coats of paint. Lightly sand the wallpaper first to rough up the surface so the primer and paint have something to adhere to.
How do I clean up paint drips and spills?
Wipe up drips and spills immediately with a damp rag while the paint is still wet. If dried on, you may need to do some light sanding to rough up the surface before wiping clean with paint thinner or lacquer. Be very careful not to damage the finish. For carpets and floors, blot with a clean cloth and treat any remaining stain.
Final Thoughts
So now you're armed with the knowledge about the different paint finishes and sheens. Time to head to your local hardware store and pick out some swatches. Remember, for high-traffic, high-use rooms like kitchens and bathrooms, stick with durable finishes like satin or gloss. For living rooms and bedrooms, matte or eggshell will create a cozy vibe. Want drama? Metallic or shimmer finishes will do the trick. The options are endless—have fun with it! With the right finish in each room, you'll be well on your way to a home that’s picture-perfect. What are you waiting for? Get to it!