Paint finishes describe the level of sheen in paint, from high gloss to flat, affecting durability, cleanability, and how much surface imperfections show and maintenance over time.
When it comes to choosing paint for a structure, it’s not enough to choose a particular shade, color, or palette. You also have to choose the right sheen based on the area we’re supposed to paint them. So to avoid the confusion, we’ve created this infographic to give you a rundown on the top 5 paint finish starting from the shiniest. Feel free to share it with your friends and shine some light when it comes to their sheen knowledge about paints and their finishes.
High gloss
Gives off a very reflective, shiny, glass-like sheen
Best for exterior doors and architectural details and interior window trims, kitchen cabinets, bathrooms, and architectural details
Easy to clean and resistant to dirt, stains, and mildew
Highlights imperfections
Semi-gloss
Smooth, slightly reflective surface
Best for exterior trims, shutters, doors and architectural details and interior trims, doors, cabinets, wainscotting, moldings in kitchen & living rooms
Resistant to mildew, moisture and wear. Also very easy to clean
Also highlights imperfections, even brush strokes or the brush used to apply it so need expert painters
Satin
Great for exterior trim, siding, shutters and doors; and interior walls, trim, doors, cabinets in Best for high traffic areas and frequented rooms areas like family rooms, kids’ bedrooms and hallways
Harder to apply
Eggshell
Gives off a little bit of sheen and best for a decorative paint
Best for interior high traffic walls, living room, dining room or bedroom
Easier to care for with a quick wipe
Avoid using on areas that will see a lot of furniture movement as scuffs are harder to remedy
A total repaint may be needed as touch-ups are easy to see
Matte and flat paints
Absorbs rather than reflects light
Best for ceilings and walls in low traffic spaces
All imperfections on surfaces are easily hidden
Hardest finish to clean and will show every fingerprint or mark made on it
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the five main types of paint finishes?
The five main paint finishes are high gloss, semi-gloss, satin, eggshell, and matte (flat). They run from the shiniest and most reflective down to the least reflective, and each one suits different surfaces, rooms, and levels of traffic. Choosing the right sheen matters just as much as choosing the right color.
Which paint finish is best for high-traffic areas?
Satin is the best finish for high-traffic areas, with semi-gloss a close second. Both stand up to wear, moisture, and frequent cleaning, which makes them ideal for hallways, family rooms, kids’ bedrooms, and busy walls that need to look good and wipe clean easily.
What paint finish hides wall imperfections best?
Matte and flat finishes hide imperfections best because they absorb light instead of reflecting it. They’re ideal for ceilings and low-traffic walls where you want a smooth, even look. The trade-off is that they’re the hardest finish to clean and show fingerprints and marks more readily.
What is the best paint finish for kitchens and bathrooms?
High gloss and semi-gloss are the best finishes for kitchens and bathrooms. They resist moisture, mildew, dirt, and stains, and their smooth surface wipes clean easily. That’s also why they hold up well on cabinets, trim, and doors in these high-use, high-humidity rooms.
Why do glossy paint finishes show more imperfections?
Glossy finishes like high gloss and semi-gloss show more imperfections because their reflective surface catches light and reveals dents, bumps, and brush strokes. That’s why a high-sheen finish calls for careful surface prep and an experienced hand. Our painters take the extra prep steps so the final coat looks flawless.