Paint is one of those
things in life that can come in just about any configuration that you can
imagine and in every color possible. The color of the paint that you use on
your home is actually the least important aspect of paint, considering the
different types of paints, and the different finishes that the paint can
create. You can take the exact same paint color, and make it look multiple
different ways, simply by changing the type of paint or the type of finish that
it leaves. While it’s true, the hardest part of painting is picking a color,
picking the type of paint and the finish shouldn’t be as hard.
When
it comes to choosing the right finish for your paint, it’s important to
understand the differences between the sheens. The amount of gloss that a type
of paint has can make a dramatic difference in the end result of the room so it
is important to choose the right finish before starting your painting project. Different
moods and styles can be enhanced by a careful choice of finishes. Walls that
have imperfections will show much more with a glossier finish than with a more
satin finish. Rooms that see heavy traffic will be harder to clean up and touch
up with a matte finish than with a semi-gloss.
Paints
that have low gloss won’t reflect light as well and are good for a more formal
or modern style. Paints that have high gloss reflect light and give a shiny
surface, contributing to a brighter look. You've chosen your interior paint
colors, and you may be asking yourself, what’s the difference between paint
finishes? There are several variables to consider when selecting a paint
finish. What’s the difference between matte,
satin, flat and gloss paint?
Matte and Flat-These paint
finishes deliver a smooth, subtle look and show little to no sheen when dry
since they absorb light.
·
Advantages: Matte and flat finishes cover
imperfections in surface and application making them a great choice for
ceilings as well as walls in the bedroom, dining room, and living room. You can
easily touch up this finish.
·
Disadvantages: They hold dirt and are difficult
to clean because cleaning can actually remove the finish. Some manufacturers
such as Behr, Sherwin Williams, and Benjamin Moore, make washable versions that
allow for easier cleaning. Do not use in bathrooms, the kitchen, or a child's
room.
Bedroom
·
Requirements – Low traffic area with little
light reflection
·
Recommendation – Flat or matte finish
Ceilings
·
Requirements – Inexpensive paint that hides
imperfections and doesn’t need to be cleaned
·
Recommendation – Flat or matte finish
Satin-This silky,
smooth paint finish retains its pearl-like sheen when dry. This finish is also
called eggshell.
·
Advantages: A satin finish reflects more light
than matte and stands up well to washing. Use in high-traffic areas such as
bathrooms, the kitchen, and a child's room as well as on trim and molding
throughout the house.
·
Disadvantages: This finish does not hide
imperfections in surface or application. Any touch-ups will stand out.
Dining Room
·
Requirements – Clean-looking, smooth-looking,
elegant finish
·
Recommendation – Semi-gloss, satin, or eggshell
finish
Family Room
·
Requirements – Clean-looking walls that hide
imperfections in high-traffic area
·
Recommendation – Semi-gloss or stain finish
Semi-gloss and Gloss-When dry, this
paint finish reflects the most light, providing a bright sheen.
·
Advantages: Semi-gloss and gloss finishes
prove durable and washable with semi-gloss offering high resistance to
moisture. Use in the kitchen and bathrooms as well as on trim and molding
throughout the house.
·
Disadvantages: These finishes show every single
imperfection in surface and application requiring additional preparation work
and sanding to create a smooth surface. Touch-ups of this finish will stand out
because of the difference in sheen.
Bathroom
·
Requirements – Moisture resistance and
easy-to-clean walls
·
Recommendation – Semi-gloss or high gloss paint
Hallways
·
Requirements: Easy-to-clean walls that reflect
light
·
Recommendation – Semi-gloss of gloss finish
Kitchen
·
Requirements – Easy to clean and durable paint
in a high traffic area
·
Recommendation – Semi-gloss or high gloss paint
Interior Trim
·
Requirements – Durable paint that is easy to
clean and helps windows pop.
·
Recommendation – High-gloss paint
“I
think I’ll paint roads on my front room walls to convince myself that I’m going
places.” (Lemn Sissay)[i]
[i] Sources used:
·
“How to tell the
Differences between Satin and Semi-Gloss Paint’ by Accurate Paint of NW Florida
·
“Matte Finish vs. Satin and Gloss: A Guide to Paint Finish
Types” by Five Star Painting
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