A Guide to Choosing the Right Paint Finish
Choosing the right paint finish can make or break your painting project. The finish you choose will affect the look, durability, and cleanability of your painted surfaces. With so many options available, it can be tough to know where to start. I’m here to help.
The most common types of paint finishes are:
Flat. Flat paint has no shine and is the least durable of all the finishes. It is a good choice for ceilings and walls that you don't want to draw attention to, but it is not a good choice for areas that get a lot of traffic or need to be cleaned frequently.
Eggshell. Eggshell paint has a very low sheen and is slightly more durable than flat paint. It is a good choice for walls and ceilings that you want to be able to wipe down occasionally.
Satin. Satin paint has a medium sheen and is more durable than eggshell paint. It is a good choice for trim, doors, and cabinets.
Semi-gloss. Semi-gloss paint has a higher sheen than satin paint and is very durable. It is a good choice for kitchens, bathrooms, and other high-traffic areas.
High-gloss. High-gloss paint has a very high sheen and is the most durable of all the finishes. It is a good choice for furniture, trim, and doors that you want to be able to shine up easily.
In addition to the type of finish, you will also need to consider the following factors when choosing a paint:
The color of the paint. Darker colors will show more imperfections than lighter colors. If you are choosing a dark color, you may want to choose a higher-sheen finish that will help to hide imperfections.
The condition of the surface. If you are painting a surface that is in poor condition, you may want to choose a lower-sheen finish. Better yet, refinish the surface yourself or talk to a general contractor
The amount of light in the room. Rooms with less light can benefit from a higher-sheen finish, which will help to reflect light and make the room appear brighter.
Tips for Choosing a Paint Finish
Sample different finishes before you buy paint. Paint a small area of the surface you are going to paint with each of the finishes you are considering. This will help you to see how the finish will look in your lighting and with your chosen color.
Don't be afraid to experiment. There are no hard and fast rules when it comes to choosing a paint finish. The best way to find the right finish for your project is to experiment and see what you like.
Ask for help. If you are unsure which finish to choose, ask for help from an interior designer, paint salesperson or a professional painter.
With a little planning and consideration, you can choose the right paint finish for your project and create a beautiful and durable finish that you will love for years to come. When you are ready to update more than just your paint, reach out to Marks-Woods and we can give any space in your home a complete makeover.
