Guide to Choosing the Right Paint Sheen

When it comes to paint, there are a lot of factors to consider when choosing the right sheen. It’s important to think about the practical application, the durability, and the overall look and feel of the paint. The higher the sheen, the more durable and easier to clean it is. However, too much shine can be overwhelming, especially for interior walls. This article provides a comprehensive guide to paint sheens and offers tips on how to choose the right one for any painting job.

High Gloss

High gloss paint is the most durable and easiest to clean, but it is too much shine for interior walls. It is best used in areas with a lot of moisture and grease, such as kitchens and bathrooms. It is also good for trim, furniture, and doors. The downside is that it highlights and amplifies surface imperfections, so it’s not ideal for walls with noticeable flaws.

Semi-Gloss

Semi-gloss has a slight shine and is much better suited for interior walls than high gloss. It is also good for areas with moisture and grease, such as kitchens and bathrooms. It is easy to clean and is more durable than other sheens. The downside is that it will highlight flaws in the walls.

Satin

Satin paint has a velvety luster, and it is a great option for interior walls. It is also durable and easy to clean, but it won’t hide imperfections as well as flat/matte paint. It is good for high-traffic areas, such as hallways and family rooms.

Eggshell

Eggshell paint is between satin and flat on the sheen scale. It has a slight sheen, but not enough to highlight surface imperfections. It is good for interior walls and is easy to clean and durable.

Flat or Matte

Flat or matte paint has no sheen and is great for hiding wall imperfections. It is not as durable as other sheens, but it is still easy to clean. It is best used in low-traffic areas, such as bedrooms and living rooms.

Tips for Choosing the Right Sheen

When choosing the right sheen, it’s important to keep in mind a few key tips. Darker and richer paint colors have more colorant, which means they need higher sheens. Adding sheen also adds to the cost, so it’s important to consider the budget. Lastly, it’s important to think about the practical application and the durability of the paint.

Overall, choosing the right paint sheen is an important part of any painting job. High-gloss is the most durable and easiest to clean, but is too much shine for interior walls. Semi-gloss is good for areas with moisture and grease, satin has a velvety luster, eggshell is between satin and flat on the sheen scale, and flat/matte is great for hiding wall imperfections. When choosing the right sheen, it’s important to keep in mind the practical application, the durability, and the budget. With the right knowledge and tips, anyone can choose the perfect paint sheen for any painting job.