Not all paints are created equal. Did you know that your finish of choice is just as important as the color? Let the experts at Bowman Painting help you choose the right paint and finish for the job!
Matte
Matte finish is a shine-free, flat finish that provides a great depth of color and some durability. Flat and matte finishes soak up light instead of reflecting it. Matte finishes are perfect for new construction projects, drywall, ceilings, and low-traffic areas and require fewer coats than higher-glossed paints. With its high pigmentation, matte finishes are beautiful and rich, but are more prone to grime and damage which is why we suggest using it in strategic places!
Eggshell
A happy middle between shiny and matte, the eggshell finish is named because of its light luster, similar to a chicken’s egg. Eggshell is ideal for medium-traffic areas, such as a dining or living room. Eggshell is popular due to its ability to cover imperfections well, making it one of the most common types of wall paint. While not the most resistant to scuffs and stains, eggshell finishes are more washable than flat sheens. All you need is a simple, damp cloth!
Satin
The most versatile of the paint finish options, satin gives your walls a pearly sheen that’s not overbearing or overly muted. Satin is incredibly durable and perfect for high-traffic areas like family rooms, kids’ bedrooms, and hallways. It also works well in high-moisture areas such as bathrooms and mudrooms or sunrooms in humid climates. This easy to clean, high-resistance option does have some disadvantages, however. Satin paint is not the most beginner-friendly paint for DIY options, requiring a lot of pre-paint prep as application flaws such as roller or brush strokes and blemishes in the flatness of the wall will be noticeable.
High-gloss and Semi-gloss
Two great paint options for moisture-prone areas such as kitchens and bathrooms or for details such as trim and railings. High-gloss and semi-gloss can take a lot of abuse and look luxurious with its smooth, high-definition sheen and sleek appearance. While semi-gloss is easier to clean, it does tend to highlight blemishes on walls or ceilings, making this finish option ideal for highlights and details – especially in a shade of pearly white! High-gloss on the other hand is a great choice for high-touch areas like cabinets and doors but is too much shine for walls.
