Do you want your guests to be amazed the next time they come over for a visit? The first thing they’ll notice is the paint job done by 360 Painting. We understand that choosing the right paint color is just one step in creating the perfect interior look. Just as important is selecting the ideal paint finish, which can impact the room’s appearance, feel, and durability. Each finish has unique qualities, and selecting the right one can make a big difference in how your home looks and holds up over time. Here’s a breakdown of the most common finishes we’ve seen and how the experts at 360 Painting can help you choose the best option for each room in your home.
Flat or Matte Finish
Best for: Ceilings, low-traffic areas, and walls with imperfections.
Flat or matte finishes offer a non-reflective surface that provides a smooth, velvety look. They’re excellent at hiding minor imperfections, making them a popular choice for ceilings and low-traffic areas. However, matte finishes can be more challenging to clean, so they’re generally not recommended for high-traffic spaces or areas prone to stains.
Advantages: Hides imperfections well; creates a soft, warm appearance. Considerations: Not as durable or easy to clean as other finishes.
Eggshell Finish
Best for: Living rooms, dining rooms, and bedrooms.
Eggshell finish has a slight sheen that resembles an eggshell’s surface, giving it a subtle gloss without the shine of higher-sheen finishes. This finish balances appearance and durability, offering a bit of washability while maintaining a sophisticated look. It’s ideal for spaces where you want a touch of elegance but don’t need a high-gloss surface.
Advantages: More washable than flat; attractive and low-sheen. Considerations: Not as durable as higher-gloss finishes in very high-traffic areas.
Satin Finish
Best for: Hallways, children’s rooms, and kitchens.
Satin finishes are popular in homes with kids or pets because of their durability and smooth, soft sheen. This finish resists moisture better than flat and eggshell finishes, making it suitable for high-traffic areas and rooms where wiping down walls is necessary. Satin finishes have a bit more sheen than eggshell, adding a subtle glow to the room without too much shine.
Advantages: Durable and easy to clean; good for moderate-traffic areas. Considerations: Imperfections on walls may be more visible due to the higher sheen.
Semi-Gloss Finish
Best for: Kitchens, bathrooms, trim, doors, and cabinetry.
Semi-gloss finishes are known for their durability and high resistance to moisture, making them perfect for rooms like kitchens and bathrooms where moisture is present. This finish is also an excellent choice for trim, doors, and cabinetry, as it’s easy to clean and adds a crisp, polished look. Its reflective quality can highlight architectural features, making it a great choice for accenting detail work.
Advantages: Very durable and easy to clean; excellent for rooms with moisture. Considerations: Shows imperfections, so careful prep work is essential.
High-Gloss Finish
Best for: Trim, cabinets, and doors.
High-gloss finishes are the most durable and washable option, with a highly reflective surface that adds a sense of drama and luxury to a space. While high-gloss is often reserved for trim, doors, and cabinetry, it can be a bold choice for accent walls in certain settings. High-gloss surfaces highlight every detail, so proper surface preparation is essential for achieving a flawless look.
Advantages: Extremely durable and easy to clean; creates a high-end look. Considerations: Reflects light and shows every flaw, so surface preparation is key.
Choosing the right finish will decide how your guests start looking at your home. We at 360 understand it may not be so simple. The right finish is about balancing aesthetics with functionality, ensuring your walls, trim, and doors look beautiful and hold up over time. At 360 Painting, our team has the expertise to guide you through the options, providing personalized advice for every room in your home. Whether it’s a cozy matte for a bedroom or a bold semi-gloss for the kitchen, we’re here to help you make the best choice for your unique space.