A paint finish is just as important as the color when it comes to achieving the desired look and feel of a space. The finish determines the level of shine and durability of the paint, making it crucial to choose the right type for each area. Here are some common types of paint finishes and where to use them:
Flat Paint Finish
Best for ceilings and walls with imperfections as it hides surface flaws. This is because flat paint absorbs light rather than reflecting it. However, it's not easy to clean and absorbs dirt, making it unsuitable for high-traffic areas. If you want the look of a flat paint finish with higher durability, a matte finish is a good option.
Eggshell Paint Finish
A versatile choice for most interior walls, with a slight sheen that falls between flat and satin finishes. Adds depth to walls in areas such as bedrooms, living rooms, and dining rooms. Easier to clean than flat finish paints and still hides small wall imperfections. An eggshell finish is suitable for areas with moderate foot traffic.
Satin Paint Finish
Slightly higher sheen than flat finish paints, making them easier to clean and maintain. Also a great choice for walls. Especially in high-traffic areas like hallways, kitchens, and bathrooms. Also great for doors, trims, and cabinetry due to its sheen that resists stains and marks.
Semi-Gloss and Gloss Paint Finish
The most durable paint finish with a high level of sheen. Very easy to wipe clean. Perfect for cabinets in high-traffic areas such as kitchens, bathrooms, and laundry rooms. Popular for adding depth and shine to accents like baseboards, trim, and doors. Keep in mind that the glossier the finish, the more it can affect the color of the paint. Always test a sample of your color in the desired finish before committing to a large project.
When it comes to painted cabinetry, the ideal paint finish is either semi-gloss or satin. These finishes have a higher sheen, making them easier to wipe down and clean any spills or stains that may occur in the kitchen or bathroom. They are more durable than flat or eggshell finishes, meaning they can withstand the wear and tear of daily use without showing signs of everyday use. Semi-gloss finishes have a slightly higher sheen than satin finishes, making them slightly more durable and even easier to clean. However, satin finishes have a smooth, velvety appearance that is less reflective than semi-gloss but still has enough sheen to make it easy to wipe down.
In summary, choosing the right paint finish depends on the area you're painting and the desired level of durability and shine. Flat finishes are best for ceilings, eggshell or satin finishes for most interior walls, and semi-gloss and gloss finishes for high-traffic areas and accents.
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