Choosing the right paint finish largely depends on the room you are painting, what you use the room for, and your personal preference. The challenge is figuring out how all of these things work together to help you choose a paint finish for your home or apartment. This post will cut through the confusion by explaining the different paint finishes, what rooms to use them in, what situations they are best for, and how they affect the way your paint color looks.
Matte Finish
A matte finish is a finish that has no shine at all. Since there is no shine it does a great job of hiding imperfections (a finish with shine would be reflective and highlight any imperfections) so it is often used on ceilings. Keep in mind that matte finish is the most difficult to clean so if you have an area prone to fingerprints (or mischievous children) a matte finish might not be the best choice.
Eggshell
Eggshell has a slight sheen, making it a good choice for low traffic areas. It isn’t shiny like a high gloss paint but it is easier to clean than a matte paint. It will hide imperfections better than a semi-gloss or high gloss but there will be some reflection on uneven surfaces. A higher sheen typically means increased durability, so eggshell is a bit more durable than a matte as well.
Semi-Gloss
Semi-Gloss is a finish that is often picked for homes. It has a nice shine and it is relatively easy to clean with a damp cloth. This makes it an ideal choice for kids’ rooms or living rooms, which usually are areas of high traffic. Additionally, it’s more water resistant than a matte or eggshell so it works for bathrooms as well. Keep in mind it will highlight imperfections in the wall.
High Gloss
High-Gloss paint is all about durability and easy cleaning. It is the most durable of all the finishes and therefore is used on spaces that get lots of use. So, doorframes, moldings, doors, cabinets, anywhere that is likely to get bumped or nicked. It’s also easy to clean, making it a great choice for kitchens so that you can easily wipe away grease or food splatters or anything else that might get on the walls. It can also be a choice for kid areas such as a playroom or bedroom if crayons or other art products might end up on the walls.
Contact Rob Ross Painting
If you’re unsure of which paint finish to choose, talk with the experts! Our team at Rob Ross Painting can help to determine which finish would be best, depending on the factors discussed above. To get in contact with us, fill out an online form or give us a call today at (978) 265-1567!