Type of Paint Sheens/Finishes

Paint sheen, also known as paint finish, refers to the level of glossiness or shine in a paint coating. Different types of paint sheens are available, each with its own characteristics, appearance, and recommended uses. Here are the most common types of paint sheen, listed from least to most shiny:

  1. Flat/Matte: Flat or matte paint has little to no shine. It is known for its non-reflective, velvety appearance. This sheen is excellent for hiding imperfections on walls and ceilings, making it a popular choice for interior spaces with low traffic. However, it is less durable and more challenging to clean than glossier finishes.

  2. Eggshell: Eggshell paint has a slight sheen that is reminiscent of the texture of an eggshell. It offers a bit more durability and washability compared to flat paint, making it suitable for living rooms, dining rooms, and bedrooms.

  3. Satin: Satin paint has a soft, subtle sheen that is more reflective than eggshell but less than semi-gloss or gloss finishes. It is a versatile choice that combines durability with a pleasing appearance. Satin is often used in high-traffic areas such as hallways, kitchens, and bathrooms.

  4. Semi-Gloss: Semi-gloss paint has a noticeable shine and is highly durable and easy to clean. It is commonly used for trim, doors, cabinets, and surfaces that require frequent cleaning due to its resistance to moisture and stains.

  5. Gloss: Gloss paint has the highest level of shine among all paint finishes. It creates a highly reflective and smooth surface that is exceptionally durable and resistant to stains and moisture. Gloss paint is typically used for doors, windows, railings, and other architectural elements.

  6. High-Gloss: High-gloss paint offers the shiniest finish of all. It provides an extremely reflective, almost glass-like appearance. This finish is often used on surfaces that demand the utmost durability and are subject to frequent cleaning, such as kitchen cabinets, trim, and furniture.

  7. Pearl/Satinwood: Pearl or satinwood paint is a specialty finish that falls between satin and semi-gloss in terms of sheen. It provides a subtle, pearly shimmer, which can add depth and interest to surfaces like walls and woodwork.

  8. Chalkboard: Chalkboard paint is designed to create a writable, erasable surface. It typically has a matte finish and is used on walls, doors, or furniture to turn them into chalkboards.

The choice of paint sheen depends on the specific requirements of your project, including the surface type, the room's function, and your aesthetic preferences. For example, flat and matte finishes are excellent for hiding imperfections on walls, while semi-gloss and gloss finishes are better suited for high-traffic areas and surfaces that need to withstand moisture and cleaning. It's essential to consider these factors when selecting the appropriate paint sheen for your painting project.

Talk to us today to discuss the best paint and finish for your upcoming painting project.