Paint Finish Guide
Complete guide to paint finishes. Learn which sheen level is best for each room and surface type.
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
| Room | Recommended Finish | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Ceilings | Flat | Hides imperfections, no glare |
| Living / Dining | Eggshell | Rich look, slightly washable |
| Bedrooms | Eggshell or Flat | Low traffic, cozy feel |
| Kitchen | Satin | Washable, moisture-resistant |
| Bathroom | Satin or Semi-Gloss | High moisture, frequent cleaning |
| Trim / Doors | Semi-Gloss | Durable, easy to wipe down |
| Kids' Rooms | Satin | Scrubbable, handles abuse |
Curious what your project costs? Use the paint cost calculator for paint, labor, and DIY vs. pro estimates based on your exact rooms.