How to Choose the Right Paint Finish (Sheen)
The paint finish is the way that the paint looks and feels. There are many different finishes available, each with its own unique properties. The right finish for your project will depend on the look you want to achieve and the conditions that the paint will be exposed to.
Here are some of the most common paint finishes:
Flat: This is the most matte finish available. It is non-reflective and hides imperfections well. Flat paint is a good choice for ceilings and walls where you want to minimize shine. The only ceilings you won't want flat on are the restrooms and kitchen because of moisture, grease and oil.
Eggshell: This finish is slightly shinier than flat paint. It is still non-reflective, but it has a slightly smoother appearance. Eggshell paint is a good choice for walls where you want a little bit of shine.
Satin: This finish is shinier than eggshell paint, but it is not as shiny as semi-gloss or gloss paint. Satin paint is a good choice for walls and trim where you want a little bit of shine, but you don't want the paint to be too reflective.
Semi-gloss: This finish is shinier than satin paint. It is reflective, but not as shiny as gloss paint. Semi-gloss paint is a good choice for trim and doors where you want the paint to be durable and easy to clean.
Gloss: This is the shiniest finish available. It is very reflective and can make a room look larger. Gloss paint is a good choice for cabinets, woodwork, and other surfaces that need to be easy to clean.
I recommend a flat finish for all ceilings except for restrooms and kitchens, where I would use a semi-gloss or satin finish. I would use an eggshell finish on walls. The higher the gloss, the more imperfections on the surface will be noticeable. For example, if you were to paint your entire home with a gloss finish, you would likely need to sand and retexture all of the walls and doors to a perfectly smooth finish in order for the paint job to look great. Touch-ups are also easier with lower-sheen finishes, with flat being the easiest and gloss being the most difficult. Often, when touching up a gloss finish, you have to go edge to edge.
Here are some factors to consider when choosing a paint finish:
The look you want to achieve: The paint finish will have a big impact on the overall look of your space. If you want a room to look bright and airy, you might choose a flat or eggshell finish. If you want a room to look more sophisticated, you might choose a semi-gloss or gloss finish.
The conditions that the paint will be exposed to: If the paint will be exposed to a lot of moisture or dirt, you will need to choose a finish that is durable and easy to clean. Semi-gloss or gloss paint is a good choice for these conditions.
Your personal preferences: Ultimately, the best paint finish is the one that you like the best. There is no right or wrong answer, so take your time to choose the finish that you think will look best in your space.
Conclusion
The right paint finish can make a big difference in the look and feel of your space. By considering the factors above, you can choose the right finish for your project and get the results you want. For more help give us a call at 435-277-0834
