You want to repaint a room in your house, but don’t go grabbing your brushes and roller — yet.
Before you start, you need to buy paint, and it’s not as simple as choosing a color. You need to know which paint finish you want, too.
There are many types of paint finishes out there. And, unless you’ve seen them in other homes, you won’t get to see them until you brush them onto your walls.
So, read this quick guide on paint finishes before choosing your perfect pail. That way, you get exactly the look you want.
1. Flat Paint Finish
Flat paint has no shine to it. This quality allows for more of the paint color to come through. It also hides imperfections in your strokes as you paint.
However, flat paint is tougher to clean than some of the other options on the list. That’s why most professionals, such as the team at Majestic Painters, would use flat paint for exterior jobs. It’s also a common choice for ceilings — it’d be hard to scuff this spot, after all.
2. Glossy Paint Finish
Under the umbrella of glossy paint, you have two options — semi-gloss and high-gloss paint.
Semi-Gloss
Semi-gloss is the go-to choice for woodwork in your home because it adds just enough shine and dimension. A bit of a glow can make kitchen cabinets stand out, too. And, because this finish is so forgiving, it’s a great option for your kitchen.
High-Gloss
Meanwhile, high gloss paint gives off more shine than any other option on the list. It’s stain-resistant and easy to clean because of its glossiness. It makes architectural details stand out — it’s also an ideal finish for kitchen walls and features.
Just know that glossy paints show imperfections in your strokes more than any other finish. So, learn the proper painting technique before choosing this type of paint finish.
3. Eggshell Paint Finish
Don’t let the name fool you — eggshell paint is a durable paint finish. It falls somewhere between glossy and matte. That’s why it remains a top choice for DIYers, even as the popular paint colors change year in and year out.
Eggshell gives you just a bit of sheen on your walls. So, it’s easier to keep up than a flat finish. It’s ideal for moderately trafficked spaces, such as bedrooms, living rooms, and dining rooms.
4. Satin Paint Finish
A satin paint finish falls between glossy and matte, just like an eggshell. However, satin has even more of a shine to it. It’s, therefore, more durable and stain-resistant than eggshells.
Most people will select a satin finish for high-traffic areas — walls that you often scuff would be easier to clean with a satin coat. But it has enough shininess to highlight architectural features and woodworking. It’s a great option for a front door because of its durability and sheen.
Choose Your Paint Finish
These are just five of your options when it comes to a paint finish. However, between flat, semi-gloss, high gloss, eggshell, and satin, you’ve got a range of possibilities.
So, consider the traffic in your space, as well as its architectural features. Do you want something that’s easy to clean or something more pigmented? Now, you know how to pick a paint that fits the bill. We can help with other pressing decisions — especially those regarding your business. Check out the entrepreneurship section of our site to learn more.
