Choosing a paint color is already a rollercoaster of emotions, but wait—there’s more! You also need to pick the right finish (aka sheen). If you’re thinking, "Wait, there’s more than one kind of paint finish?"—yes, and they can make or break your paint job. Don’t worry; we’re here to break it down for you in a way that makes sense and, dare we say, makes it a little fun.
Paint Finish 101: What Are the Options?
Before we dive into where to use each finish, let’s meet the contenders:
- Flat (Matte) – Zero shine. Great for hiding imperfections, but not the best for high-traffic areas.
- Eggshell – Just a tiny bit of sheen. A nice middle-ground between flat and shiny.
- Satin – Smooth and slightly glossy. A go-to for durability and style.
- Semi-Gloss – Shiny and tough. Works well in spaces that need easy cleaning.
- Gloss (High-Gloss) – The shiniest of them all! Bold, dramatic, and easy to wipe clean.
Now, where should you use each one? Let’s go room by room!
Living Room & Bedrooms: Keep It Comfortable
Your living room and bedrooms are all about comfort and relaxation. You don’t need high shine here; you want a cozy, welcoming feel.
✅ Best Finish: Eggshell or Satin
- Eggshell is great for a soft, elegant look without too much shine.
- Satin works well if you want a bit more durability—especially if you have kids or pets running around.
🚫 Avoid: High-Gloss unless you want to turn your bedroom into a futuristic, mirror-like funhouse.
Kitchen: Durable & Easy to Clean
The kitchen is where the magic (and mess) happens. Between grease splatters, spaghetti sauce incidents, and the occasional science experiment gone wrong, your walls need to hold up.
✅ Best Finish: Satin or Semi-Gloss
- Satin is great if you want a bit of shine with easy cleanup.
- Semi-gloss is even better for areas near the stove, sink, or anywhere that sees splashes and spills.
🚫 Avoid: Flat Paint unless you enjoy scrubbing walls every time you cook bacon.
Bathroom: Moisture-Proof Your Space
Bathrooms deal with constant humidity, so the finish needs to be able to resist moisture and mildew.
✅ Best Finish: Semi-Gloss or Gloss
- Semi-gloss is a safe bet—it’s moisture-resistant and easy to clean.
- Gloss is great for a super sleek, water-repellent surface.
🚫 Avoid: Flat Paint unless you want a moldy mess on your hands.
Hallways & High-Traffic Areas: Tough Yet Stylish
Hallways take a beating—especially if you have kids, pets, or a tendency to bump into walls while texting.
✅ Best Finish: Satin or Semi-Gloss
- Satin holds up to wear and tear while still looking stylish.
- Semi-gloss is extra durable and great for homes with lots of activity.
🚫 Avoid: Flat Paint unless you’re a fan of frequent touch-ups.
Ceilings: Keep It Simple
Ceilings should be the least of your worries. You don’t want shine up there reflecting every little imperfection.
✅ Best Finish: Flat or Matte
- Flat paint helps hide any bumps or cracks.
- It also prevents weird light reflections that can make a ceiling look uneven.
🚫 Avoid: Glossy Finishes unless you want your ceiling to look like a giant disco ball.
Doors & Trim: A Polished Look
Your doors and trim see a lot of action, so they need something durable and stylish.
✅ Best Finish: Semi-Gloss or Gloss
- Semi-gloss gives a classic, polished look while being easy to clean.
- Gloss is the go-to for a bold, high-shine effect that really makes your trim pop.
🚫 Avoid: Flat Paint because scuffed and dirty trim is not a good look.
Final Thoughts: It’s All About Balance
The right paint finish can make your home look amazing and make your life easier. Need a quick cheat sheet?
- Flat/Matte – Best for ceilings and low-traffic areas.
- Eggshell – Great for living rooms and bedrooms.
- Satin – Perfect for kitchens, hallways, and high-traffic areas.
- Semi-Gloss – Ideal for bathrooms, trim, and doors.
- Gloss – Best for statement walls, cabinets, and anything that needs a sleek finish.
Need help making the right choice? Parkland Painter is here to guide you and bring your vision to life. Contact us today and let’s get painting!