Learn the benefits and drawbacks of the types of paint finishes and which option works best for different surfaces in your home.
Paint Finishes Chart: Visuals and Descriptions of Every Finish
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Your paint sheen chart shows how finishes range from flat to high-gloss, with each level reflecting different amounts of light and durability.
Higher-sheen paints work best in high-traffic areas because they resist moisture and fingerprints, while matte finishes suit low-traffic spaces and ceilings.
Test your paint samples in the finishes you're considering before committing, since sheen levels affect how colors appear in your lighting conditions.
Hiring a local interior painting professional ensures your finish application stays streak-free and smooth, especially on trim or glossy surfaces requiring careful preparation.
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Choosing the right paint finish is just as important as picking the perfect color. Whether you opt for a soft matte, an ultra-shiny high-gloss, or something in between, the finish can affect how a room looks—and how well the paint holds up over time. This guide includes a paint finishes chart that outlines the main types of paint finishes, what they look like, how durable they are, and where they work best.
What Is Paint Finish?
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Paint finish refers to the level of gloss or sheen a paint has after it has dried. The finish affects the way light reflects off the painted surface, its durability, and the overall feel and function of a room. The higher the sheen, the more light the paint reflects. Higher sheens can make colors appear brighter and slightly lighter than they look on a flat or matte surface. In contrast, flat and matte finishes absorb light, making colors appear deeper. When choosing paint colors for your home, test paint samples in the finishes you’re considering before committing to make sure you get that (chef’s kiss) flawless shade.
Paint Finishes Chart
| Finish | Sheen Level | Durability | Works Well In | Visual Appearance | Key Characteristics |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Flat/matte | Minimal | Low | Ceilings, bedrooms | Soft, velvety | Hides wall imperfections |
| Eggshell | Low | Moderate | Living rooms, dining rooms | Smooth, subtle shine | Balanced, practical |
| Satin | Medium | Good | Hallways, kids’ rooms | Soft shine | Easily cleanable |
| Semi-gloss | High | Very good | Kitchens, bathrooms | Reflective | Moisture-resistant |
| High-gloss | Very high | Excellent | Trim, doors, cabinets | Glass-like | Ultra-durable |
Types of Paint Finishes
Photo: PixelsEffect / E+ / Getty Images
Let’s take our handy chart a level deeper and inspect each paint finish more closely.
Flat and Matte
Flat and matte paints have the lowest sheens. They’re perfect for covering imperfections, but they’re tougher to keep clean. For a cozy look, use flat and matte paint on ceilings and in low-traffic areas.
Eggshell
Eggshell is a happy medium between matte and satin. It emulates a soft sheen with moderate durability, making it easier to clean and maintain. It works well in living rooms and areas that experience high usage but still call for a warm, welcoming ambiance. If you’re debating between matte versus eggshell but anticipate scuffs and scratches, opt for eggshell.
Satin
Satin finishes are popular choices for busy households. They provide durability and a soft gloss that works in a wide variety of high-traffic settings, such as hallways and family rooms. Satin finishes sit right in the middle of the sheen spectrum, making them perfect for repelling fingerprints without appearing overly shiny.
Semi-Gloss Paint
Notably shinier than satin paint, semi-gloss holds up well in moist or messy spaces. It’s a top choice for kitchens, bathrooms, and laundry rooms. If you’ve narrowed it down to satin versus semi-gloss, note that semi-gloss may cost a bit more but will likely last longer.
High-Gloss Paint
High-gloss paint is the most reflective and durable of all paint finishes. It’s perfect for trim, doors, and cabinetry where you want a polished look that can withstand frequent bumps and scratches.
How to Choose the Right Paint Finish
Your ideal paint finish depends on the room’s purpose, as well as the amount of light it receives. Consider the following factors as you peruse paint samples:
Traffic: High-traffic rooms need durable, easy-to-clean finishes such as satin or semi-gloss.
Moisture: Semi- and high-gloss paints resist mildew and moisture in bathrooms and kitchens.
Light: Higher sheens reflect more light, which means you’ll brighten up a dark room, but also highlight imperfections.
Aesthetics: Matte paints look softer, while glossier finishes add contrast.
While painting may seem like a fun after-work project, selecting and applying the perfect finish can be challenging—especially on trim or glossy surfaces that require special preparation. Hiring a professional painter near you can help ensure you have streak- and splatter-free surfaces you’ll love for years to come.
Return on Investment
Interior painting offers a high ROI of around 107%. That means that most homeowners will recoup between $2,100 and $16,000, depending on the size of their painting project. Neutral colors are more appealing to potential buyers than darker colors.
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