Choosing the Right Paint Finish
The finish, or sheen, you choose is as important as the color. It affects the final look, durability, and cleanability of your walls. Use this guide to make the perfect choice for every surface.
The Golden Rule of Paint Sheen
Higher Sheen = Higher Durability & Shine. This makes it easy to clean, perfect for high-traffic or high-moisture areas like kitchens, bathrooms, and trim.
Lower Sheen = Better at Hiding Imperfections. Its non-reflective nature conceals minor flaws in walls, making it ideal for living areas and ceilings.
Matte (Flat)
No Shine | Low Durability
Has a non-reflective, velvety texture that excels at hiding surface imperfections like bumps or patches. Its sophisticated look is perfect for low-traffic areas.
Best For:
Eggshell
Low Sheen | Medium Durability
Provides a soft glow, reminiscent of an eggshell. It's more washable and durable than matte, making it a popular, versatile choice for most living spaces.
Best For:
Satin
Soft Glow | Medium-High Durability
Often considered the best all-around finish. It offers a beautiful, pearl-like sheen and stands up well to cleaning and light scrubbing in moderately busy areas.
Best For:
Semi-Gloss
Noticeable Shine | High Durability
Sleek, radiant, and highly durable, this finish is moisture and stain-resistant, making it perfect for hardworking surfaces. Its shine will highlight any wall imperfections, so prep work is key.
Best For:
High-Gloss
Very Shiny | Very High Durability
Creates a hard, ultra-shiny, light-reflecting surface like glass. It's the most durable and easiest to clean, but requires flawless surface preparation as it shows every flaw.
Best For: