When it comes to painting your home, one important decision you’ll need to make is the type of paint sheen you want to use. But with so many options available, it can be tough to know which one is right for your project
First, let’s define what we mean by “paint sheen.” The sheen of paint refers to the amount of gloss or shine it has. Paint with a high sheen will have a shiny, glossy finish, while paint with a low sheen will have a matte or satin finish.
Here are some of the most common paint sheens you’ll encounter:
- Flat/Matte: Flat or matte paint has a very low sheen and is often used on walls and ceilings. It’s a good choice for hiding imperfections, but it’s not as durable as other options and may be more prone to staining.
- Eggshell: Eggshell paint has a slightly higher sheen than flat paint and is often used on walls. It’s more durable and easier to clean than a flat paint, but it can still show imperfections.
- Satin: Satin paint has a medium sheen and is often used on doors, trim, and cabinets. It’s more durable and easier to clean than eggshell, but it can still show some imperfections.
- Semi-Gloss: Semi-gloss paint has a higher sheen than satin and is often used on trim, doors, and cabinets. It’s very durable and easy to clean, but it can highlight imperfections.
- High-Gloss: High-gloss paint has a very shiny finish and is often used on trim, doors, and cabinets. It’s very durable and easy to clean, but it can highlight imperfections and may not be the best choice for large areas.
So, which paint sheen is right for your project? Here are a few factors to consider:
- Durability: If you need paint that can stand up to wear and tear, you’ll want to choose a paint with a higher sheen. Semi-gloss and high-gloss paints are the most durable.
- Cleanability: If you have a lot of traffic in a particular room or area, you’ll want paint that’s easy to clean. Semi-gloss and high-gloss paints are the easiest to clean.
- Hiding imperfections: If you’re painting over a surface with imperfections, you’ll want to choose a paint with a lower sheen to help hide them. Flat and eggshell paints are good options.
Ultimately, the best paint sheen for your project will depend on your personal preferences and the specific needs of your space. Consider the factors above and choose the sheen that will work best for you.
