How to choose the perfect paint finish for your home

When you’re painting your home, the paint color usually gets all the attention, but something that often gets overlooked is the finish you choose. The finish can make just as much of a difference as the color of a room, which is why it is important to pay close attention to all of the details.  A paint finish refers to the sheen, or level of gloss that appears once the paint dries, ranging from a flat or matte look to a shiny, reflective surface. The right finish not only enhances the look of your space but also affects how durable and easy to maintain your walls will be. 

The Main Types of Paint Finish

Once you’ve picked your perfect color, the next step is choosing the right finish. Each finish has its own look, feel, and level of durability. Here’s a quick breakdown of the most common types and where they work best in your home:

• Flat / Matte
  This finish has no shine and offers a smooth, even look that’s perfect for hiding small wall imperfections. It creates a soft appearance, making it a great choice for bedrooms, ceilings, and low-traffic areas. It’s less washable than other finishes, so it’s best for areas that don’t need frequent cleaning.

• Eggshell
  Named for its soft, subtle sheen, eggshell is one of the most popular finishes for interior walls. It’s slightly reflective, easy to clean, and does a good job of disguising minor wall flaws. It’s ideal for living rooms, dining rooms, and hallways.

• Satin
  Satin finishes offer a smooth, velvety sheen and are very durable. They hold up well to regular cleaning and moisture, making them a top pick for kitchens, bathrooms, kids’ rooms, and trim. This finish adds just the right amount of glow without being too shiny.

• Semi-Gloss
  With a noticeable shine and strong resistance to moisture, semi-gloss is perfect for trim, doors, cabinets, and bathrooms. It’s easy to wipe clean and stands up well to wear and tear, ideal for areas that see a lot of use.

• High Gloss
  The most reflective finish of all, high gloss delivers a polished, glass like look. It’s extremely durable and easy to clean, which makes it great for accent pieces, cabinetry, and doors. Because it highlights every surface detail, proper prep work is key to getting a flawless result.

The right paint finish can completely change the look and feel of your home. From soft and subtle to sleek and modern. It’s not just about appearance, it’s about choosing a finish that fits your lifestyle, holds up to daily use, and makes maintenance easy. Whether you’re refreshing a single room or giving your entire home a new look, selecting the right paint finish is an important step toward achieving lasting, beautiful results.