Matte vs. Gloss: Choosing the Right Finish
A complete guide to paint sheens, from flat to high-gloss, and where to use them.
Introduction
Choosing a paint color is hard enough, but once you finally pick “Naval Blue,” the guy at the paint counter asks you another question: “What sheen do you want?”
Flat? Eggshell? Satin? Semi-gloss?
The finish (or sheen) you choose affects how the color looks and, more importantly, how durable the paint is. Here is the simple breakdown to help you choose the right finish for every room.
The Rule of Thumb
The higher the gloss, the more durable (and washable) the paint is. The lower the gloss, the better it hides imperfections.
1. Flat / Matte
- Look: No shine at all. Like velvet.
- Best For: Ceilings, adult bedrooms, and low-traffic areas.
- Why Use It: It hides bumps, scratches, and uneven drywall better than anything else.
- The Downside: It is hard to clean. If you scrub it, you might rub the finish right off.
2. Eggshell
- Look: A soft, low luster. Like the shell of an egg (hence the name).
- Best For: Living rooms, dining rooms, and hallways.
- Why Use It: It is the “Goldilocks” sheen. It has just enough gloss to be wipeable but is still dull enough to hide wall flaws. It is the most popular choice for walls.
3. Satin
- Look: A pearl-like finish. Noticeably shiny but not reflective.
- Best For: Kitchens, bathrooms, kid’s rooms, and laundry rooms.
- Why Use It: It resists moisture and mildew better than eggshell. It can stand up to scrubbing, making it perfect for high-traffic zones.
4. Semi-Gloss
- Look: Shiny and reflective.
- Best For: Trim, baseboards, doors, and cabinets.
- Why Use It: It is tough as nails. It highlights the architectural details of your trim and creates a nice contrast against eggshell walls.
5. High-Gloss
- Look: Wet, glass-like finish.
- Best For: Statement doors, furniture, or dramatic accent walls.
- Why Use It: It makes a bold statement. However, prep work must be perfect because high-gloss shows every single scratch and bump.
- Try: A high-gloss front door in Rookwood Red SW 2802 or Tricorn Black SW 6258 is a classic showstopper.
Conclusion
Don’t let the sheen be an afterthought. Matching the right finish to the room’s function ensures your paint job looks great and lasts for years.
Still not sure? Canvas Home Painting brings sheen samples to every consultation so you can see exactly how the light hits them in your home.