The Ultimate Guide to Interior Paint Finishes

The Ultimate Guide to Interior Paint Finishes

Choosing the right paint finish is just as crucial as selecting the perfect color for your home’s interior. The sheen level not only affects the appearance but also influences durability and maintenance. Explore the different paint finishes below to determine the best option for each room in your home.

Gloss Finish

Benefits: Highest sheen with a glass-like appearance, highly durable, and easy to clean.
Drawbacks: Highlights wall imperfections, requires skillful application to avoid streaks.
Best For: Door and window trim, baseboards, and decorative moldings.

Semi-Gloss Finish

Benefits: Sleek shine, moisture-resistant, and ideal for high-humidity areas.
Drawbacks: Reveals surface flaws and can be challenging to touch up.
Best For: Kitchens, bathrooms, and trim work.

Satin Finish

Benefits: Subtle pearl-like sheen, stain-resistant, and suitable for high-traffic zones.
Drawbacks: Emphasizes cracks and uneven patches; blending touch-ups is difficult.
Best For: Family rooms, hallways, and bedrooms.

Eggshell Finish

Benefits: Low-to-moderate shine, conceals imperfections, and easier to clean than flat paint.
Drawbacks: Less durable than satin or gloss finishes.
Best For: Living rooms, dining rooms, and moderate-traffic areas.

Flat/Matte Finish

Benefits: Non-reflective, hides wall flaws, and requires fewer coats for coverage.
Drawbacks: Least durable; scrubbing can damage the finish.
Best For: Adult bedrooms, ceilings, and low-traffic spaces.

Final Tips

Before starting your project, evaluate the room’s purpose, expected wear and tear, and desired aesthetic. Balancing these factors will help you select the ideal finish to achieve both beauty and practicality in your home.