Choosing a Paint Finish Type

Choosing the right paint color is hard, yes, but it's nothing compared to choosing the right paint finish. Never given a second thought about the type of finish you use in your home? It's time you did! Consider this your guide to paint finishes -- from matte to gloss and everything in between.

FLAT, MATTE PAINT:
According to WiseGeek, flat and matte paint finishes have no real sheen when the paint has dried. Rather than reflect light, flat and matte paint finishes absorb it. Both paint finishes are good for hiding small surface imperfections and imperfections in application, such as brush or roller marks. Flat and matte finishes are good choices for interior walls in rooms that receive little traffic or for painting ceilings.

EGGSHELL PAINT:
Similar to flat paint, an eggshell finish absorbs light, but has a tiny amount of sheen as it dries. Use eggshell paint finishes on interior walls, as they wash better than a flat finish.

SATIN PAINT:
A satin paint finish has a smooth, velvety shine to it when it dries. Although a satin finish doesn't hide imperfections on the applied wall, it does forgive more painter's mistakes than a semi-gloss. Satin paint finish reflects light and is a good choice for childrens' rooms, as it washes very well, according to the experts at Valspar.

SEMI to HIGH-GLOSS PAINT:
Semi-gloss and high-gloss paint finishes are at the other end of the spectrum from a flat or matte paint, as they reflect the most light of any paint finish when they dry. According to WiseGeek, semi-gloss is a great choice for kitchens and baths as the finish can stand up to water and frequent cleaning better than other finishes.

Enlightening, yes? Perhaps next time you choose your paint color, you'll think twice about the paint finish as well!