How to Choose a Paint Finish

by Mary Ann Romans | More from this Blogger

19 Oct 2007 04:46 PM

Do you know the different between an eggshell and a semi-gloss finish when you are choosing paint? Here is an easy guide that tells you what all of the terms really mean and how you can choose the right finish for your paint project.

As if choosing the paint colors for your home wasn't hard enough, you still have to pick a paint finish. I have to confess that one time I spent so much time choose the color, shade and hue for our old bedroom, that I was completely clueless when it came time for the finish. The paint store employee stood there waiting for an answer. It turned out that I didn't make the best choice. I have learned all about paint finish since then. I want you to be able to avoid my mistake, and with the following guidelines, you'll be in much better shape that I was back then.

There are five basic paint finishes for interior paint: flat, egg shell (or low luster), satin, semi-gloss and high gloss. Here is the breakdown.

Flat: This paint has zero shine to it. It doesn't reflect any light. Flat paint reduces glare on the walls and will minimize any surface imperfections. Flat paint is also hard to clean, so I recommend it for ceilings and walls in homes without children or pets. I would avoid using flat paint in a work area, such as a kitchen.

Eggshell: This paint has a slight sheen. It is washable and a little more durable than flat paint. It works well on smooth, blemish-free surfaces that won't get a lot of "hand" traffic or in greasy areas. Satin: This paint is a good choice for children's bedroom and play rooms. A satin finish cleans up beautifully. Fingerprints will sponge right off, and tougher messes generally require only a little bit of cleaner.

Semi-Gloss: This paint is shiny and sturdy. It is a good choice for woodwork and trim, because the finish will really dress up the area. The fact that it is very easy to clean and durable, makes it ideal for those spaces.

High Gloss: This paint brings shine up to the highest level, reflecting the most amount of light. It is extremely durable and simple to clean. It would be hard to imagine an entire wall painted in high gloss, but this paint works well on trim.

Mary Ann Romans writes about everything related to saving money in the Frugal Blog, technology in the Computing Blog, and creating a home in the Home Blog. You can read more of her articles by clicking here.

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Learn more about Mary Ann Romans

Mary Ann Romans is a freelance writer, wife and mother of three children. She lives in Pennsylvania with her husband, the kids and a 16-pound cat.

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