Skip to content

How to Choose the Right Paint Finish for Your Home

Posted by Nolan Painting on January 24, 2022
color consults havertown

Believe it or not, choosing a paint finish can be just as important and confusing as choosing the right color for a particular space. Allow us to walk you through your options so that you can make the right choice for your home. We’ll share the most common interior paint finishes as well as how the different types of paint finishes differ from each other.

 

Flat Finish

Flat finishes do not have any shine to them at all. They tend to have a matte look that can appear velvety as well. They should be used in a space where you want a particular color to really stand out. Due to their lower durability, they are not as easy to clean which can be a deterrent for some people, but if used in a room that gets less traffic like a bedroom or on a ceiling, this option could be the perfect choice.

 

Why Choose this Finish? 

They are great in spaces where you may want to cover any dings or any kind of wall imperfections. 

 

Washable Flat Finish

Washable flats are great because they give you the benefits of hiding imperfections and that great color, but also give homeowners the ability to wash certain areas when needed. They have burn-resistance qualities as well. This finish is considered medium in terms of durability and is suggested in general living spaces.

 

Why Choose this Finish? 

This finish is great in living spaces like a hallway, kitchen or bathroom.

 

Eggshell/Satin/Low Luster Finish

These finishes have a sheen to them which makes them much more durable than the flat and washable finish options. They are the most common interior paint finishes as they are great in high traffic areas because they can be cleaned, but keep in mind that they do show imperfections.

 

Why Choose this Finish? 

This finish is great in kitchens and bathrooms because they can be cleaned.

 

Semi-Gloss/Gloss Finish

Semi-gloss and gloss finishes have the most durability because they have the most sheen. They can be used to really make a space striking or offer a different finish to show separate paint colors such as using a semi-gloss on a baseboard. It’s important to keep in mind that while they are the most durable, they show the most imperfections. 

 

Why Choose this Finish? 

The best places to use this finish is wood trim, kitchen cabinets and doors.

 

Still Need Help Deciding How To Choose The Right Paint Finish?

The team of residential painting contractors at Nolan Painting can help you decide which paint finish would be perfect in the spaces that you are considering for your next project. Get your project started today by giving us a call at (610) 572-2806. We look forward to working with you on creating a space that you enjoy spending time in!