Selecting the Right Paint Sheen for the interior of your home

When beginning your painting project, you will want to consider the sheen of your paint, or the gloss level. The higher the sheen, the shinier the appearance and the more washable the finish.

Sheen should be chosen based upon the type of room, surface, lighting, window position, performance expectations, and aesthetic preference. Each paint finish has its advantages and best uses.  

Paints with a higher sheen are typically easier to clean but there are higher end products in lower sheens that have exceptional durability and washability. 

Paints with a lower sheen hide wall imperfections better than a high gloss paint.  

Different areas in a house or business have different demands so let’s dive into the different sheens of paint. 

Flat/Matte– this sheen creates no or very low reflectance when dry. It provides a smooth, subtle finish. It hides imperfections and diffuses light. It is ideal in areas where fingerprints, scuff marks, and stains are less likely to be an issue.

Recommended Areas:

·       Ceilings

·       Master Bedrooms

·       Areas with natural light

 Eggshell – this is a smooth, low sheen with a subtle finish. Eggshell paint is more washable than flat sheens, and it resists stains and scuffs. It provides an easy-to-clean and nearly shine-free finish.

Recommended Areas:

·       Hallways & Entryways

·       Family Rooms

·       Low- to mid- traffic areas

Satin– this sheen generates a low to medium reflectance when dry. A satin paint provides an elegant, almost pearl-like finish. It is very versatile and can be wiped clean.  

Recommended Areas:

·       Bathrooms

·       Kitchen Areas

·       Higher Traffic Areas

Semi Gloss – this sheen creates a medium to high reflectance when dry. A semi-gloss paint gives rooms a shiny, sleek appearance. It reflects light and it highly durable and washable. It is best suited to highlight the architectural details of your home and create dimension.

Recommended Areas:

·       Cabinets and trim

·       Doors

·       Bathrooms

There are many important decisions to be made in a painting project and selecting the right paint sheen should be near the top of your list. We are here to assist you in deciding not only the right color but also the right sheen.