Choosing An Interior Paint Finish For Your Property

Deciding on the right paint sheen is crucial for achieving your desired interior look and durability.

Finishes differ when it comes to how much light will be reflected, how easy it is to clean, and more. Make sure that you are choosing the right paint for your property's needs. Use this guide to help you decide on the best solution. 

FINISH

DURABILITY

REFLECTIVITY

IMPERFECTION COVERAGE

MAINTENANCE

RECOMMENDED USES

Flat/Matte*

low

very low

hides imperfections well

difficult to clean without removing paint, scuffs easily

low traffic areas, adult bedrooms, ceilings

Eggshell

low to medium

slightly reflective

moderate imperfection coverage

easier to clean than flat/matte

most interior walls, dining and living rooms

Satin

medium

more reflective

makes imperfections apparent

cleans well, better at resisting scuffs and stains

high traffic areas, kitchens, bathrooms, children's rooms, windows, doors, trim

Semigloss

medium to high

high reflectivity

shows imperfections

cleans easily, more scuff resistant

doors, cabinets, trim, interior shutters, banisters, heavily used areas

High-gloss

high

very high reflectivity

magnifies imperfections

easiest to clean

paneled doors, cabinets, trim, abused areas, not recommended for interior walls 

*While the terms "flat" and "matte" are often used interchangeably, matte can have a slightly glossier finish and can be easier to clean than flat.

 

Some extra tips to make your paint job exceptional:

  1. The shinier the paint, the longer it can take to dry, so plan accordingly and consider using fans if need be.
  2. Remember to carefully prepare your surfaces before using a higher gloss paint to avoid noticeable application flaws.
  3. Dark and rich colored paint will amplify the sheen of your paint, so choose a finish with slightly less gloss when using these colors.