What’s the Difference in Paint Sheen?
Do you ever wonder what the difference is in paint sheen? If you’re painting your home’s interior, it’s an important question to answer. Sheen is basically how shiny a paint finish is. The different sheens will give your walls different looks, so it’s important to choose the right one for your project. In this article, we’ll discuss the different types of sheen and show you some examples of each. We’ll also help you decide which sheen is best for your project.
High-Gloss
High-gloss paint sheen is very shiny, reflective, and durable. It is easy to clean and resists stains. High-gloss paint is best suited for rooms that get a lot of abuse, such as kitchens and bathrooms. However, it can be used in any room to give a bright, fresh look. Keep in mind that high-gloss paint will show imperfections in the surface more than other sheens, so it is important to use a high-quality primer and to sand the surface before painting for a more flawless look.
Semi-Gloss
Semi-gloss is a lot like high-gloss paint but just a bit less shiny. This type of paint is often used in high-traffic areas such as kitchens and bathrooms, as well as on trim and doors. While it is more durable than flat or eggshell paint, it can also be more difficult to apply evenly. As a result, semi-gloss paint is best suited for rooms that do not require frequent touch-ups.
Satin
Satin paint sheen is a popular choice for paint projects because it has a beautiful luster that is slightly muted. It is also very versatile and can be used in a variety of settings. One of the main advantages of the satin paint sheen is that it is easy to clean. This makes it an ideal choice for areas that are susceptible to dirt and fingerprints, such as living rooms. However, because it has a bit of shine, satin paint sheen may not be the best choice for rooms that are meant to be calming and serene. Overall, satin paint sheen is a great option for many different rooms in the house.
Eggshell
Eggshell paint sheen has a soft, matte finish that is easy to clean and maintain. Because it does not reflect light, eggshell is a good choice for rooms that receive a lot of natural light. Eggshell paint sheen is also a good choice for walls that have imperfections, as it will help to camouflage them. However, eggshell paint sheen is not as durable as other options and may require more touch-ups over time. It’s best suited for low-traffic rooms like a dining room or private study.
Flat/Matte
Flat or matte paint sheen is a popular choice for those who want to achieve a smooth, even finish on their walls. This type of paint is formulated to resist reflecting light, which can minimize the appearance of imperfections on your walls. As a result, it is an ideal choice for rooms that receive direct sunlight or have high ceilings. However, flat paint can be more difficult to clean than other types of paint, so it is not recommended for areas such as kitchens and bathrooms. Flat paint sheen works best in bedrooms.
Conclusion
Now that you know the different types of paint sheen, you can make a more informed decision about which one is right for your project.
Marc Poulos began his real estate and financial services career, but he soon realized that his true passion was beautifying homes. He started working with various small craftsman shops before serving an apprenticeship with the Ritz Carlton Hotel in Chicago. His commitment to excellence won him Top Apprentice from Washburne trade school in Chicago – the country’s premier school of its kind.
