Interior Paint Finishes
When it comes to painting your home, there are a lot of factors to consider. One of the most important is the finish of the paint. The paint’s finish will determine how it looks, feels, and performs.
There are six main interior paint finishes: flat, matte, eggshell, satin, semi-gloss, and gloss. Each finish has unique properties, so choosing the right one for the job is essential.
Flat Finish
Flat paint has the least amount of sheen. It is a good choice for rooms where you want to minimize the appearance of wall imperfections.
Matte Finish
Matte paint has a slightly higher sheen than flat paint. It is a good choice for rooms where you want a low-key look.
Eggshell Finish
Eggshell paint has a medium sheen. It is a good choice for rooms where you want a little shine but not too much. Eggshell paint is easy to clean and doesn’t show fingerprints. It is also a good choice for high-traffic rooms, such as hallways and living rooms.
Satin Finish
Satin paint has a higher sheen than eggshell paint. It is a good choice for rooms where you want a little shine but not too much. Satin paint is easy to clean and doesn’t show fingerprints. It is also a good choice for high-traffic rooms, such as hallways and living rooms.
Semi-Gloss Finish
Semi-gloss paint has a high sheen. It is a good choice for rooms where you want a shiny look. Semi-gloss paint is easy to clean and doesn’t show fingerprints. It is also a good choice for rooms with high moisture, such as kitchens and bathrooms.
Gloss Finish
Gloss paint has the highest sheen. It is a good choice for rooms where you want a mirror-like finish. Gloss paint is easy to clean and doesn’t show fingerprints. It is also a good choice for rooms with high moisture, such as kitchens and bathrooms.
How Paint Finishes Reflect Light
The sheen of a paint finish will affect how it reflects light. Flat paint will absorb the most light, while gloss paint will reflect the most light.
The amount of light that is reflected will also affect how the wall imperfections are seen. Flat paint will hide the most imperfections, while gloss paint will show the most imperfections.
How to Choose the Right Paint Finish
The best way to choose the right paint finish is to consider the following factors:
- The look you want to achieve
- The amount of traffic the room will get
- The amount of moisture the room will get
- The wall imperfections
Once you have considered these factors, you can start to narrow down your choices. If you are still unsure which finish to choose, consulting a professional painter is always a good idea.