In years past, this was the most difficult and confusing decision for me. Whenever I would choose paint for my own home, I would wonder, “Do I need Flat or Satin? What on earth is Eggshell? What do these terms even mean?”
First, it will be helpful to examine how the large paint Manufacturers define and view finish type.
If you consult with Sherwin-Williams (whom I always recommend), their literature on paint finishes will discuss the evaluation methods they use to measure the amount of Gloss in a paint.
Gloss is the reflective quality of a dried paint surface, and it is influenced by the ratio of resinous binder to pigment (color). Higher gloss finishes indicate there is more binder and a lower concentration of pigment which reflects light to give it a shinier appearance. Lower gloss finishes contain less binder and a higher concentration of pigment, giving it a matte appearance. Gloss is measured at a 60 degree angle. When your eye views a painted surface from a 60 degree angle, you can see its full amount of light reflectivity. Paint is considered glossy when it reflects light well and produces a mirror-like appearance. Paint is considered flat/matte when it does not reflect light well and produces a rougher appearance.
So, what is the purpose of gloss in paint? This brings us to the next topic: Durability.
When referencing durability in paint, it is best to utilize glossy paints for areas which will be exposed to a great deal of use/traffic. Glossy paints are easier to clean and can withstand scrubbing. For example, kitchen cabinets may receive a Semi-Gloss or Gloss finish due to people constantly touching them. In contrast, a kitchen ceiling will almost always be Flat or Matte because no one touches it!
There is another important factor to consider. If you intend on performing multiple touch ups over the years, then a Flat or Matte finish may serve you better. Walls painted with Semi-Gloss or Gloss paints do not blend well with touch up paint because the amount of gloss almost never matches correctly. If attempted, the touch up can “pop out” on a wall and be noticeable. With Flat or Matte finishes, touch ups are easier to perform because there is no gloss to make it noticeable.
Overall, if you would prefer to have the ability to clean your walls, then a higher gloss paint is the best choice. If you would rather perform paint touch ups on your walls, then a Flat/Matte paint is the better option.
Below is a simple process on how to choose the best paint finish:
Select a finish which can withstand its location and exposure.
Adjust up or down one level of "gloss" based on the amount of natural light and how the light enters the room.
Consider if, and how the paint may need to be touched up in the future.
Lifestyle and Durability
Here is a chart which suggests paint finishes based on rooms and locations:
| Finish | Rooms & Locations |
| Flat | Ceilings & low traffic areas |
| Matte | Most walls |
| Eggshell | Family Rooms & Hallways |
| Satin | Dining Rooms, Bathrooms, & Kitchens |
| Semi-Gloss | Bathrooms, Kitchens, Trim, & Doors |
| Gloss & High Gloss | Trim, Doors, & Exterior Woodwork |
Let’s see how all of this information can be used in a real world application:
Room to be Painted: Living Room
Natural Light: Walls receive a flood of light in the morning and mid-afternoon.
Traffic/Exposure: Small children and a Golden Retriever play in the living room.
Desired Maintenance: Ability to wipe walls with water or a gentle cleanser.
Best Paint Finish: Satin
Reasoning: With more natural light flooding the living room, it would be best to select a paint with lower gloss to reduce the amount of “shininess” on the walls. Additionally, with the walls experiencing more traffic and exposure, it would be easier for the homeowner to gently wipe the walls down as opposed to performing multiple touch ups. Therefore, Satin would be the best option. Satin is not extremely reflective, yet it still possesses the characteristics of durability for light cleaning.