Choosing the Right Paint Finish

After scouring paint swatches and looking at them during different times of the day to see what it will really look like, you think you’re ready to paint your home! You head over to the local home improvement store where they then ask you what finish you would like….whhhhhaaa?

More options. Using the wrong finish can make or break a paint job. I mean, there are reasons there are good reasons why there are so many choices, right? Below, you'll find the most common finishes and recommendations on where and when to use them.

- PAINT FINISHES - 

Flat: a low-sheen paint with a non-reflective finish that touches up well and hides minor surface imperfections.  It's ideal for low traffic areas, interior walls and ceilings.

Matte: a low luster reflective finish that is durable, easy to clean, touches up well, and also hides minor surface imperfections. It is great for low to moderate traffic areas, such as bedrooms, and interior walls.

Eggshell Enamel: a soft, velvety appearance and is a good choice for moderate traffic areas such as living rooms.

Satin Enamel: a pearl-like appearance, and are painting moderate to high traffic areas or areas that have some exposure to moisture, such as kitchens.

Semi-Gloss Enamel: a sleek, radiant sheen that is great from cabinets and trim, high-traffic areas and high-moisture areas.

Hi-Gloss Enamel: a brilliant, shiny appearance with a glass-like finish. This is great for high-use surfaces.

And if you have kids, don’t bother using anything below a Satin finish, unless you plan on breaking out the paint can to touch up the walls.