Discovering Different Paint Finishes
When planning a painting project, the color of the paint is one of many design considerations.
When planning a painting project, the color of the paint is one of many design considerations. Paint finishes are classified according to their level of sheen and durability. Generally, the shinier the paint finish, the more durable it is.
Below are the six main types of paint finishes arranged in order of their sheen and durability:
Flat
Flat paint has a soft finish making it one of the most aesthetically pleasing paint finishes on the market. However, it doesn't reflect any light and has no shine. It also doesn't conceal surface imperfections on the wall. It is less durable and best suited for areas with minimal traffic, such as ceilings.
It also requires more work to clean. The only way to get rid of dirt and grime is by covering it with another layer of paint. So, save that extra paint once the project's done because it could be helpful in the future.
Matte
Matte finish paint is a nearly shine-free, low-luster reflective finish. It is slightly more durable than the flat finish, so it's best suited for medium- to low-traffic areas. This paint finish can also be challenging to clean, so it is not recommended for kids' rooms. Matte is better than flat paint finish when hiding minor surface imperfections because it absorbs light instead of reflecting it.
Eggshell
This paint finish has no shine. Instead, as the name implies, it has a low luster resembling the surface of a chicken's egg. It resists dirt, grime, and mildew. Thus it's commonly used in high-traffic areas such as dining and living rooms. It has medium durability and conceals flaws and imperfections on the wall.
Satin
This finish paint has little shine, giving it a pearl-like appearance. It is highly durable and effortless to clean, so it is recommended for moderate to high-traffic areas. It is also suitable for moisture-prone areas, such as kitchens and bathrooms.
Satin can hold up slight scrubbing and cleaning, making it easier to remove dirt and grime.
Semi-gloss
The semi-gloss paint finish is known for its sleek appearance, high durability, and resistance to moisture and mildew. It is suitable for walls susceptible to grease stains, moisture, and drips. It is also highly resistant to wear and tear, making it a viable choice for trims, doors, and cabinets.
Gloss
The gloss paint finish is very durable and thus recommended for high-traffic areas. It is also effortless to clean and suit frequently touched areas, including doors, kitchen cabinets, and trims. The gloss is gleaming and has a glass-like appearance. Unfortunately, it is very reflective, showing even the slightest surface imperfections.
Speak to a painting professional
There is no one-size-fits-all paint finish that is suitable for all surfaces. The level of activity that a particular area sees plays a crucial role in determining the most appropriate type of paint finish. If you have an upcoming painting project and need help knowing where to begin, please consult a professional. They will analyze the home and determine the appropriate paint for every room or surface, making the whole project less worrisome.
Absolute A Painting Company is a full-service, custom painting service company in Norfolk, Virginia, offering creative and innovative solutions for your business. For fourteen years, we have delivered quality work with customer service and satisfaction is our top priority. Absolute A Painting Company is dedicated to excellent craftsmanship and customer satisfaction. We serve Norfolk, Suffolk, Chesapeake, Virginia Beach, Newport News, Hampton Roads, Portsmouth, and surrounding cities. Call us today at (757)260-3556.
