If you’re like me, you learn the hard way…so save yourself the time and money and just read this post first!
Before we can answer this question we need to address what it is you’re painting or where are you painting because the sheen/finish is 100% contingent upon that. So lets go over the different types of paint finishes and where/what they are best suited for.
Flat
Flat paint is has no lustre or shine to it and its practically non-reflective. Of all paint finishes, it will hides flaws in your walls best. It does not clean well so don’t use it where lots of dirt or fingerprints will be. Ideal uses for this paint is on ceilings or very low traffic areas of your home. I would use this type of paint on wall if it is higher on my walls like at the top of an area that has trim below, where no one will be touching. Maintenance of this paint is high.
Eggshell
Eggshell paint has very little luster or shine to it. Its mostly non-reflective and it still pretty forgiving of falls in your walls or furniture. It does not clean best, but depending on the type of paint (latex, oil, enamel) it can be wipeable. Ideal uses for this paint would be on furniture or in bedrooms and living areas. You could use this in hallways and in bathrooms and kitchens but know that all stains may not wipe off easily and you may have to touch up more often than you’d like. Maintenance of this paint is medium.
Satin
Satin paint has luster and shine to it, but not a lot. It is mildly reflective so it will show more flaws in your walls and furniture–just be sure to patch and touch up those areas first. Satin is wipeable and easy to maintain. Ideal uses for this paint would be in bedrooms, kitchens and bathrooms. I would also say its great for high traffic hallways and stair cases, as well as doors. Maintenance is medium-low with this paint.
Semi-gloss
Semi-gloss paint definitely has luster and shine to it. It is reflective and depending on the paint color you use, it can show a lot of flaws. On the upside, it can also highlight a lot of detail and trim, so ideally, this would be used on trim such as crown moulding, baseboards, doors, stair railings, and window trim. You can also use this on walls in your bathroom and kitchen because it’s very easy to wipe and its fairly water resistant, but the sheen to it may not give you a look or feel you’re going for in your space. Maintenance is low with this paint.
Gloss
Gloss paint is shiny and reflective. It is very wipeable and is best used for trim work. Maintenance of this paint is low.
I hope this helps you. Happy painting!
