Choosing the Right Finish: A Guide to Paint Sheen

Flat or matte paint has the lowest level of light reflection. It offers a soft, elegant look that hides imperfections like bumps, patches, and small cracks in the drywall.

• Best For: Low-traffic areas like ceilings, formal dining rooms, and master bedrooms.

• Performance: It's the least durable and most difficult to clean, as scrubbing can damage the finish. It provides minimal protection against moisture and stains.

• Why to Use: When you want to conceal surface imperfections and achieve a sophisticated, non-glare finish.

Eggshell & Satin: The Versatile and Popular Paint Sheen Choices

Eggshell and satin finishes have a subtle, low-luster glow. Eggshell has a slight sheen resembling an eggshell, while satin has a smoother, pearl-like finish with slightly more gloss. These are two of the most popular choices for residential painting.

• Best For: Eggshell is ideal for living rooms, hallways, and bedrooms. Satin is the go-to for high-traffic areas like kitchens, bathrooms, and laundry rooms.

• Performance: They are more durable and washable than flat paint. They can withstand light scrubbing, making them perfect for areas that require occasional cleaning.

• Why to Use: They offer a beautiful balance between a low-sheen look and the practicality of a durable, cleanable surface.

Semi-Gloss & Gloss: The Durable, High-Shine Finishes

Semi-gloss and high-gloss paints have a reflective, shiny surface that is extremely durable and easy to clean. The higher the gloss, the more light it reflects.

• Best For: Semi-gloss is perfect for trim, doors, cabinets, and moldings. High-gloss is often used for furniture, railings, and surfaces that demand maximum durability and a dramatic shine.

• Performance: These sheens are the most resistant to moisture and stains. They can be scrubbed repeatedly without damaging the finish. Their high shine, however, will highlight every surface imperfection.

• Why to Use: When you need a finish that can withstand heavy use, moisture, and frequent cleaning, and you want to make architectural details pop.

How to Choose the Right Sheen for Your Home

• For Ceilings: Always use a flat/matte finish. It minimizes glare from light fixtures and helps hide any imperfections on the ceiling surface.

• For Walls: Use eggshell in most rooms. It's a fantastic all-around choice. In bathrooms and kitchens, where there's more moisture and potential for splashing, use a satin finish for better durability and moisture resistance.

• For Trim, Doors, and Cabinets: Opt for semi-gloss. Its durability makes it easy to clean smudges and fingerprints, and the slight sheen provides a beautiful contrast to the walls.

Selecting the correct paint sheen is a simple step that can elevate the entire look and feel of your home while protecting your investment. If you're unsure which sheen is right for your project, our team at Wall Master LLC is here to help.

Contact us today to discuss your project and get a professional recommendation