A Beginner’s Guide to the Many Types of Paint Sheens

When it comes to painting your home, color is usually the star of the show. But just as important—though often overlooked, is the sheen or gloss of the paint. While choosing a sheen may seem like a minor detail, understanding what paint sheen does and where it works can give you a major advantage. It can elevate the look of a space and even make cleaning easier. 

With that said, here’s a beginner-friendly guide to paint sheens!

What Is Paint Sheen?

Paint sheen refers to the finish or surface texture of dried paint, affecting how shiny or reflective your surfaces appear. It’s determined by the amount of resin or binder in the paint—the more resin, the glossier and more durable the finish.

Aside from appearance, sheen also affects how light interacts with a painted surface. Glossier finishes reflect more light, which can brighten a space. On the other hand, lower-sheen options like flat or matte absorb light, helping to conceal surface flaws. Sheens range from no-shine matte finishes to ultra-reflective high-gloss, each offering a different look and level of durability.

Different Types of Paint Sheens

Each type of sheen is designed for a particular purpose and performs best in certain areas at home. Here are some suggestions to guide you.

1. Flat or Matte Finish
   
   Flat or matte paint has no sheen, giving walls a soft, velvety appearance. It absorbs light rather than reflecting it, which makes it ideal for hiding surface imperfections such as cracks, dents, or uneven textures. This finish is commonly used on ceilings and in low-traffic areas like adult bedrooms or formal living rooms. While matte finishes offer a sophisticated, modern look, they are also the least durable. They’re not very washable and can be easily stained or marked. On the flip side, they’re easy to touch up and reapply if needed.

2. Eggshell Finish
   
   Eggshell paint has a very light sheen. Its gloss is just enough to give walls a soft glow, similar to the surface of an actual eggshell. This finish provides a good balance between appearance and performance. It’s more durable than flat paint and can handle light cleaning, making it suitable for moderate-traffic areas like dining rooms and living rooms. Eggshell paint is a favorite for homeowners who want a subtle sheen that enhances color without drawing attention to wall flaws. It’s not as forgiving as matte paint, but it still offers decent coverage for slightly uneven surfaces.

3. Satin Finish
   
   Satin finishes provide a smooth surface with a noticeable but not overpowering sheen. They are one of the most popular finishes for interior walls because they offer both visual appeal and practical benefits. This type of finish is an excellent choice for high-traffic areas like children’s bedrooms, kitchens, and bathrooms. This type of sheen is also easier to clean than flat or eggshell finishes, making it ideal for spaces that require frequent wipe-downs. However, satin does highlight imperfections more than eggshell, so proper wall preparation is essential before painting.

4. Semi-Gloss Finish
   
   Semi-gloss paint offers a reflective finish with enhanced durability. Its shiny surface is ideal for trims, cabinets, kitchens, and bathrooms, where moisture and frequent cleaning are common. While it’s durable and easy to clean, it does require careful surface preparation—smoothing and priming are essential for the best results.

5. High Gloss Finishes
   
   Gloss or high-gloss finishes are extremely reflective. This type of paint is often reserved for accent pieces such as furniture, decorative molding, and doors. It gives a sleek, almost lacquered appearance and is highly resistant to stains, water, and frequent cleaning. However, with this finish, every imperfection in the wall or application technique will be magnified. It’s best used on surfaces that are already smooth or well-prepared. While not commonly used on large wall areas, it’s perfect for adding visual contrast to a space.

The Right Sheen for Your Rooms

Choosing the right sheen for your projects depends on your personal preference. However, here are some helpful tips that might help you decide.

Preparing Your Surfaces

Whether you opt for high-gloss or matte, proper preparation is key. Clean, sand, and prime your surfaces to achieve the best results. Here’s how to get started.

Think long-term maintenance.

Matte paints are harder to clean and may stain more easily, while higher-sheen finishes are easier to wipe down. If you’re painting a space where easy maintenance is important (like a child’s playroom or kitchen), go for satin or semi-gloss.

Test before you commit.

Paint a small section of your wall with your chosen sheen and observe it in different lighting throughout the day. This helps you understand how the finish will look in your space.

Use contrast to your advantage.

Pair different sheens in the same space for added depth. For example, use an eggshell or matte on the walls and a semi-gloss on trim or cabinets for a subtle but sophisticated contrast.

Preparing Your Surfaces

Whether you opt for high-gloss or matte, proper preparation is key. Clean, sand, and prime your surfaces to achieve the best results. Here’s how to get started.

Clean the Surface Well

Before painting, it’s crucial to clean the surface thoroughly. Higher-sheen paints can emphasize imperfections, so sanding, patching, and proper cleaning are essential. Remove dirt, dust, and grease, as any residue can impact adhesion. A smooth, clean base guarantees a flawless finish and lasting results.

 Use the Right Tools

Rollers and angled brushes work well for most sheens. For glossier finishes like semi-gloss or high-gloss, consider using a sprayer to achieve a more even, streak-free look.

Apply Evenly

Glossy paints can reveal brush strokes or roller marks. Use steady, consistent strokes and avoid going over the same spot too many times once the paint starts to dry.

Mind Your Dry Time

Allow each coat to dry fully before applying the next, especially with high-sheen paints, which can show lap marks if recoated too soon.

Paint in Good Lighting

Ample lighting—natural or bright—lets you easily catch missed spots, drips, or uneven coverage. This is crucial for satin, semi-gloss, and gloss finishes, where imperfections are more noticeable.

The Right Fit for Your Design!

With these tips, you’re well on your way to achieving a flawless finish for any project. For more inspiration and to explore a wide range of paint products in various sheens, visit Island Premium Paint’s website. Happy painting!

Resources: 

https://franklinpainting.com/blog/paint-sheen-levels-explained/

https://www.kilz.com/blog/what-are-paint-sheens-and-whats-the-difference/

https://franklinpainting.com/blog/paint-sheen-levels-explained/

https://www.valspar.com/en/tips-resources/how-to/how-to-choose/choose-a-paint-sheen

https://www.sherwin-williams.com/en-us/project-center/paint-sheen-guide