Paint Finish Guide

Picking a paint color is the fun part. Picking the finish is what actually determines whether your walls look good six months from now. The sheen level affects everything — how light bounces off the wall, how easy it is to scrub kid fingerprints off, and how long the paint holds up.

Paint Finish Levels — Flat to Full Gloss

Flat / Matte — Zero Shine

Sheen: 0–5% gloss
Best for: Ceilings, adult bedrooms, formal living rooms, low-traffic zones
What's good: Hides wall imperfections like a champ. No glare — walls look smooth and velvety.
The catch: Nearly impossible to clean. Even a water spot can leave a permanent mark. Keep it out of kitchens and bathrooms.

Eggshell — The Sweet Spot

Sheen: 10–15% gloss
Best for: Living rooms, dining rooms, bedrooms, hallways
What's good: A little washable. Looks rich without shine. The most popular interior wall finish for a reason — it forgives imperfect walls.
The catch: Not as scrubbable as satin. Touch-ups can leave visible patches if you're not careful.

Satin — The Workhorse

Sheen: 25–35% gloss
Best for: Kitchens, bathrooms, laundry rooms, kids' rooms, busy hallways
What's good: Highly washable. Stands up to moisture, splashes, spills, and sticky fingers.
The catch: That sheen highlights every drywall seam and patch job. Prep work matters here.

Semi-Gloss — Tough Stuff

Sheen: 50–60% gloss
Best for: Trim, doors, cabinets, bathrooms, kitchens
What's good: Extremely durable and easy to wipe down. Resists moisture, scuffs, and fingerprints.
The catch: Very reflective — every brush stroke and surface flaw shows. Don't put it on large walls.

High Gloss — Mirror Finish

Sheen: 80–90% gloss
Best for: Front doors, furniture, accent pieces, specialty projects
What's good: Maximum durability. Dramatic, high-end look when done right.
The catch: Demands absolutely perfect surface prep. Every imperfection gets magnified. Not for the impatient.

Which Finish Goes Where