Many homeowners have no idea about the differences between the paint finishes that are offered. Many times I have dealt with clients whose homes have been painted in flat latex paint from ceiling to floor. The clients have complained to me about how dirty their walls look. Painting Contractors convince homeowners that flat paint is the best choice without explaining that it is not washable and will need to painted again once the walls get dirty. I have come to the conclusion that they just want to be hired to come back and re-paint again before the year is up.
So I would like to explain to you what a paint finish is and what the best choices are for the type of rooms that you plan on painting.
Here is a list of the paint finishes or sheens that are available from today’s paint manufacturers:
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Flat
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Matte
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Eggshell
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Satin / Pearl
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Semi-gloss
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High gloss
Different manufacturers group the finishes differently. Some consider flat and matte to be the same. Satin and Pearl are considered to be the same. Manufacturers describe the paint finish by the percentage of gloss within the paint. For instance 0% gloss would be considered dull and un-reflective and 100% gloss is almost mirror-like. The values for percent gloss vary, as do the terms.
So, let’s break it down between each finish so you can better understand what they are all used for.
Flat Paint Finish
- Used on walls and ceilings
- Camouflages or hides wall bumps, cracks, and imperfections
- This finish does not reflect light
- Real flat finish paint (not to be mixed up with matte) cannot usually be washed unless specified by the manufacturer
- Touch ups are required for scratches and marks
Matte Paint Finish
- Used on Interior walls
- This is a type of flat finish paint which contains microscopic, ceramic beads and stain resistant technology
- Provides a protective surface to resist the absorption of stains
- Highly washable finish
- Also hides surface imperfections like flat paint
- Easily touched up
Eggshell Paint Finish
- Very low sheen almost like that of an actual egg shell
- Used on interior walls
- Washable
Satin or Pearl Paint Finish
- Velvety / Smooth finish with more gloss than eggshell
- Best finish to use as the base for faux finishes – keeps the glaze movable on the surface
- Can be used on walls, windows, doors, trim, and even ceilings
- Great paint finish for kids’ room walls, kitchens, and bathrooms
- Used in high traffic areas
- Washable
Semi-Gloss Paint Finish
- Subtle shine
- Highlights imperfections, so don’t forget to prep first by filling holes and fixing imperfections
- Mostly used on doors, trim, and cabinets
- Very washable
Gloss Paint Finish
- Has the look of enamel or plastic
- Very reflective
- Used for dramatic looks on cabinets, trim, and furniture
- Highly magnifies any surface blemishes & imperfections
- Surface prep is a must when planning on using a gloss finish paint
So, I would stick with using flat paint for ceilings in bedrooms, living rooms and dining rooms. You will most likely not need to do any touch ups due to moisture or staining. A kitchen or bathroom is another story. Because of the moisture in these rooms – Go with a satin or pearl finish paint on the ceiling and even walls.
The next time you go to the paint store with the plan to buy paint, keep these things in mind and be sure to purchase the correct paint sheen so you don’t run into any issues in the future.
The least amount of work for you, the better, especially if you are the one doing the painting! Who wants to paint again in less than a year? You want to get a couple years out of it right? Well, the best advice I can give you is to stay away from flat paint on your walls! Good luck
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