Photo courtesy of Adobe Stock/manut
When you finally decide on a paint color for your project, you’re faced with even more questions: Which finish is best for that particularly space? What are the differences between them? With the help of expert Wendy Doornink, color services manager at Hirshfield’s, we break down the “need to knows”—including considerations and suggestions for where each finish works best.
Flat
Flat finishes don’t reflect too much light, so they’re easier to touch up over time. However, this type of finish shows more imperfections and tends to get roughed up quicker, so it works best on an interior wall or ceiling.
Matte
Matte finishes have varying sheens—from low to high. It’s important to note that lower sheens hide imperfections better than higher ones, and paint with a matte finish is often harder to touch up and can require repainting a whole wall. Matte finish paints are best in lower traffic areas such as bedrooms or living rooms.
Eggshell
An eggshell finish has even more sheen to it than matte. As a more durable finish, it’s great for higher traffic areas such as mudrooms, hallways, kids’ rooms, and kitchens. It’s also great for bathrooms where moisture is a typical concern. (Note that eggshell finishes require a full wall touch up.)
Photo courtesy of Adobe Stock/Radoslav Cajkovic
Satin
Satin finish is best on the trim around doors and baseboards. While it can be used for walls, too, eggshell achieves the same effect without the added shine.
Semi-Gloss
Semi-gloss finish is typically used on trim for a shinier effect. (Note that it will likely show more imperfections in the wood!)
Gloss/High-Gloss
Gloss or high-gloss finish is rarely used, but if you’re looking to have some fun and embrace the challenge, try it on a new front door or cabinets for a unique look.
