Understanding The Difference Between Different Paint Finishes

When it comes to painting your home, there’s more to think about than just colour choice–you also need to choose an appropriate finish. Luckily, there are a variety of different paint finishes available that can help create the atmosphere and look you desire. From eggshell to semi-gloss, each type of paint finish has its own unique benefits and characteristics. The type of finish you choose will depend largely on the room you’re painting and how much traffic that room gets. Understanding the difference between each paint finish is vital, especially when you consider that choosing the wrong finish could result in a do-over that costs twice as much.

Flat/Matte

Matte finish is a paint option that creates a smooth, low-sheen look with very little shine. It’s often used to provide subtle elegance in residential interiors and works well for walls, cabinets, and trim work. The advantages of matte finish include its high pigmentation and ability to absorb light rather than reflect it–this makes it easy for matte paints to cover any imperfections on your walls. The high pigmentation of matte paint also means you’ll need fewer coats to get the job done. Try using matte paint in the following low-traffic areas:

• Adult bedrooms

• Formal dining rooms

• Home office

Eggshell

Eggshell finish gives a low sheen, providing great coverage and subtle texture. It’s often used in residential painting because it provides a certain richness to the walls without creating an overly glossy effect. Unlike flat or matte finishes which can be difficult to clean due to their lack of sheen, eggshell offers just enough shine to hide dirt or fingerprints while still maintaining an attractive look overall. Because eggshell finishes are easy to clean and maintain, they are ideal for rooms with high traffic such as the living room or dining room. You can also use eggshell paint in:

• Bedrooms

• Hallways and entryways

• Children’s playrooms

• Dining rooms (as long as there isn’t any excessive food splattering)

Satin

Satin finish is a popular paint option that provides a subtle luster. Its appearance lies somewhere between eggshell and semi-gloss–offering just enough shine to help create an attractive look while still maintaining some matte characteristics. This type of finish stands up better against moisture than lower gloss varieties so it’s perfect for use in areas subject to frequent spills or splashes. Suggested uses for satin finish include:

• Living rooms

• Kitchens and dining rooms

• Bathrooms

Semi And High-Gloss

Both semi and high-gloss paints offer a shiny finish that makes surfaces appear smooth and glossy. They are the most durable paint choices making them ideal for areas subject to moisture, grease, or frequent cleaning. Try using glossy finishes on:

• Basements

• Kitchens

• Doors and trim

Work With Toronto Painters

Choosing the right paint finish for your home is an important decision that can have a lasting impact on both the look and functionality of your space. At Encore Painting, we’ll work with you to choose a paint finish that will stand up to whatever environment it’ll be exposed to. That way you can enjoy looking at your beautiful walls for years to come. Contact us today and receive a free, no-obligation quote for your next Toronto painting project.