Choosing the right paint for a project can be frustrating when you don’t know enough about the different types available. Here is everything you need to know about flat paint to make an informed decision.
Flat vs. Matte Paint: Why the Difference Matters
The difference between no- and low-luster paint is subtle but significant
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Flat and matte paint finishes both absorb light with minimal reflection, but flat has zero to 5% sheen while matte has 3% to 10%.
Matte paint is wipeable and lasts longer than flat paint, though neither finish is as durable as the same color in satin or semi-gloss.
Your choice between flat or matte depends on the room's traffic level, the wall condition, and how much cleaning your surfaces need.
Hiring a local interior painting professional provides expert guidance on finish selection and delivers smooth, uniform coverage that makes your walls look their best.
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Picking a paint color might be your top priority when planning a room refresh, but paint sheen also plays a big part in the result. Nothing beats non-reflective matte or flat paint for ease of application, coverage of surface imperfections, and creating a cozy ambiance. While it’s true that even the pros use the terms interchangeably, there are subtle variances between these two finishes. Read on to learn more about flat versus matte paint and which is better for revamping your room.
What Are the Differences Between Flat and Matte Paint?
Most visitors won’t be able to tell whether you’ve used no-luster flat or low-luster matte paints on your walls. But if you’re a paint perfectionist, learning about the subtle differences in gloss, ease of application, cleaning, and durability is worth it.
| Type of Difference | Flat Paint | Matte Paint |
|---|---|---|
| Appearance | No-luster | Low-luster |
| Texture | Hides blemishes best | Still conceals well |
| Ease of application | Very easy to apply | Easy to apply |
| Cleaning | Not washable | Sometimes washable |
| Durability | Least durable | Medium longevity |
| Price | Most budget-friendly | Still economical |
Flat vs. Matte Paint: Appearance Differences
Both flat and matte paints are light-absorbing, non-reflective sheens, ideal for creating a cozy atmosphere and hiding surface imperfections. Flat paint has between 0% and 5% sheen, and matte has between 3% and 10%. Because flat formulas don’t reflect light due to their high pigment concentration, they’re the best paint for walls with cracks, blemishes, nail holes, and other small surface flaws. Matte finishes are still capable concealers, and their velvety glow promotes a more robust depth of color.
Flat vs. Matte Paint: Application Differences
Both flat and matte paints glide onto walls like a dream—minimizing the time it takes to paint a room. If your DIY skills are lacking, these paint finishes are the most forgiving and provide excellent uniform coverage. While neither can work miracles, if you’re no Picasso, flat paints smooth out brush strokes and disguise drips or uneven application more readily than matte paints. If you struggle with paint application or just don’t want the hassle, hire a local interior painter for a perfect finish.
Flat vs. Matte Paint: Cleaning Differences
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If your walls see kids' sticky fingers and mud-caked mutts, consider picking a matte paint rather than a flat one. Chalky, porous flat paints often aren’t washable, and marks don’t wipe off well. Traditional matte paints, with their higher sheen levels, are wipeable even if they don’t lend themselves well to regular scrubbing like satin or semi-gloss finishes.
Handily, modern paint brands offer matte and flat formulas that are easier to clean, so you don’t always have to rule out these types of paint finishes to maintain spotless, high-traffic surfaces.
Flat vs. Matte Paint: Durability Differences
Because they attract scuffs and stains and aren’t easy to clean, neither flat or matte paints are known for being the most durable or moisture-resistant finishes. However, with their light gloss, matte formulas tend to be a little longer-lasting.
These days, paint brands produce low-luster sheens suitable for stain-collecting kitchens, steamy bathrooms, and other high-humidity spaces. It’s even possible to find matte exterior paint sheen formulas.
Flat vs. Matte Paint: Price Differences
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Both flat and matte finishes are smart choices when trying to keep the cost of painting your home’s interior to a minimum. They both produce even coverage with fewer coats than the glossier formulas. Often, there will be little price difference, but flat paints are slightly more budget-friendly than matte paints.
Using flat paint on a high-traffic area means you’ll probably have to pay to repaint sooner than you would with a more durable eggshell or satin paint finish, so factor that into your budget.
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