Paint Finishes - Tips

Flat\Matte, Eggshell, Satin, Semi-Gloss, High Gloss.

You know what they are, but do you know when to use them?

The rule of thumb is generally this:

• Flat -
  Hides imperfections well, does not reflect light, not scrubbable, but provides the highest coverage with the fewest coats, most often used on ceilings

• Eggshell -
  Has a very slight sheen, slightly more washable than flat/matte, still hides imperfections well, more suited to rooms that receive less traffic such as sitting rooms and guest bedrooms

• Satin -
  Has a soft glow while still providing some camoflauge for imperfect walls, much more scrubbable and suitable for higher traffic rooms such as living rooms, foyers, hallways and bedrooms

• Semi-gloss -
  Highly reflective and durable, very scrubbable, moisture resistant, a wise choice for kitchens, bathrooms, and mouldings

• High Gloss -
  Very shiny and highly durable with the highest scrubbability, perfect for kitchens, cabinetry, and doors

So, that’s the general idea behind paint finishes and when/where to use them!
But it definitely doesn’t stop there.

Sometimes, a high gloss lacquer on smooth living room walls or the perfect ceiling, is the ticket for high drama in an otherwise ‘meh"‘ room. It can accentuate imperfections, which is why it is generally used sparingly, but in some cases, it provides a rich, luxe look.

My sister-in-law’s foyer is a great example. She wanted black stairs, with the color extending down the wall underneath the staircase. A high gloss enamel was her choice because she wanted high light reflection with that dramatic color. And the effect is stunning.

A black, high gloss enamel staircase provides drama and enough shine to keep it from being overbearing and cave-like. The high shine also shows the details beautifully.

Exceptionally high gloss lacquered finishes, where the finish is absolutely glass-like, are particularly lovely in sunrooms and libraries, where sun can bounce around the high-shine walls, or the dimness of a study can be lifted by the drama of highly glossed walls.

Or, if you’re getting into luxury paint brands such as Farrow & Ball, they offer finishes such as estate emulsions, which are a chalky matte and perfectly historic. They also tend to stand up to scrubbing better than your average stateside paints.
If you don’t have tiny people terrorizing your walls, or you aren’t afraid of a potential touchup every couple of years, an ultra matte finish may be for you, particularly if you have a historic home in which it would be very period appropriate.

I highly recommend using the guide above when choosing paint finishes. But I also recommend getting creative and moving outside the box for something more dramatic or historic!
We are always here for you to bounce ideas off of, to answer questions, and to guide you in the right direction.

As always, happy painting!