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Which Paint Finish Should I Choose?

Henry Weber • Jul 05, 2023

When it comes to choosing the right paint finish for your home, it can depend on a variety of factors, such as the type of room you are painting, how often the walls may need to be cleaned, and what type of look you want to achieve.



Types of Paint Finishes and What They Are Best Used For


There are a few paint finishes to choose from, including:


Flat/Matte Finish: This type of finish is best for interior walls because it absorbs light, which helps to hide imperfections. Many paint formulas will clean well with soap and water, but other finishes tend to be easier to clean, so flat finishes aren’t recommended for high-traffic areas.


Satin Finish: Satin has a slight sheen to it, making it a great choice for processing the look of a room and hiding minor imperfections. Its mild gloss makes it easier to clean than flat finishes, but it may not be suitable in high-humidity rooms like bathrooms because the sheen can start to fade over time. Keep in mind that the glossiness can highlight divots, cracks, and areas that have been patched poorly.


Eggshell Finish: Eggshell has an attractive finish with just enough shine to make cleaning easier than flat paint. It works well on both interior walls and trim, is more durable than a flat paint, and won’t highlight imperfections like a semi-gloss or high gloss finish. It is great for areas such as hallways, bedrooms, or living rooms.


Semi-Gloss Finish: Semi-gloss has a higher amount of shine than satin or eggshell finishes. This type of finish is great for areas that see a lot of traffic since it’s easier to clean and can resist scuffing better than other finishes. It’s ideal for doors, trims, cabinets, and even bathrooms since it will reflect light better than other finishes. However, keep in mind that the shine can also draw attention to any blemishes on the wall, so ensure the walls are properly prepped.


High Gloss Finish: High gloss paints have the highest level of shine out of all the finishes and are best for areas that see a lot of traffic and require frequent cleaning. It’s extremely durable, easy to clean, and resistant to scuffing and moisture damage. However, it can also highlight any imperfections in the wall or surface, so make sure it’s applied on a smooth surface.


Choosing the Right Paint Finish


When deciding on which paint finish to choose for your home, there are many factors to keep in mind, such as using flat finishes for interior walls, satin finishes for high-traffic areas with mild glossiness, eggshell finishes ideal for both interior walls and trims, semi-gloss finishing work well on doors as well as trim and cabinets. In contrast, high gloss paints are best used for areas that require frequent cleaning.

By considering your needs and the type of look you want to achieve, you can find the perfect paint finish for your home.

Here at MasterBrush Painting, we offer a variety of finishes that are sure to meet any need or budget. Contact us today to learn more about our selection and get started on creating a beautiful space in your home! Our professional residential painters can refresh your home and create a stunning look you can enjoy for years to come. Contact us today to learn more.

Author: Henry Weber


Before starting Master Brush Painting in 1981, Henry worked at one of the top painting companies in Pittsburgh where he learned the trade from world-renowned experts. Since then expertise has satisfied clients in Pittsburgh and surrounding area as well as earning him awards such as the Angie's List Super Service Award.

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