There are other important decisions you need to make when it comes to the interior painting of your home. First, you have to decide on the color. Then, it would be best if you chose the right finish. The finishes range from matte to glossy and everything in between. Each has its benefits and look. This article will help you select the perfect sheen for the interior of your home.

Understanding Paint Sheen

To begin with, we need to understand what paint sheen is and what its purpose is. Paint sheen measures the amount of light that is reflected from a painted surface. It is the way the light reflects from the painted surface. The sheen of paint affects its durability, appearance, and cleaning. The more enamel a paint has, the higher its concentration of sheen.

From dull to shiny, the most common paint sheens are:

Flat

Flat Enamel

Eggshell

Satin

Semi-Gloss

Gloss

Paint Sheen explained:

Flat

This finish is ideal for homeowners or older homes who want to conceal imperfections. This sheen absorbs light rather than reflecting it. Flat paint is actually completely flat and, therefore, does not reflect light. Since they blend well, flat paints are easier to touch up and are ideal for areas with low traffic, such as bedrooms, dining rooms, and ceilings.

Be careful, as this finish cannot be washed, and the paint could come off if you scrub. This will leave a dull area. We rate this finish as medium-low in durability. The price of a gallon of flat painting can vary from $20 to $400.

Matte

Matte finishes can also be called velvet finishes. Matte paint is a low gloss but has a little more shine. Matte paint can be used to cover up old walls. It is also a better finish than flat.

Eggshell

It has a lower luster and is slightly more reflective. On the scale, it is somewhere between flat and satin sheen. It is easy to maintain, which makes it a great choice for bedrooms, living rooms, and hallways. Eggshell paint is less noticeable than semi-gloss or high-gloss. The price of a gallon can vary from $25 to $50, and its durability is moderate.

Satin

The satin sheen is a soft, luminous finish that is more durable and long-lasting than eggshells. Easy to clean, it is ideal for areas with high traffic, such as family rooms, bathrooms, and kitchens. Because of its ease and durability, satin paint can be used on board trims such as window casings and baseboards. Be careful when painting, as brush strokes and roller marks can be visible. The price of a gallon of satin paint ranges from $30 to 60 dollars.

Semi-Gloss

The semi-gloss finish is durable and reflective. It’s the best choice for areas with high traffic, such as kitchens, bathrooms, and playrooms. Semi-gloss is the perfect choice for cabinets, doors, and trims because it’s durable and easy to maintain. Semi-gloss can range from $35 to $70.00 per gallon, making it the second most durable option.

Glossy

The glossiest sheen, it is the most reflective of all the finishes. It is the most durable sheen and is ideal for areas like kitchens and baths that need to be cleaned constantly. This finish is also great for painting furniture or cabinets. This finish is not recommended for walls as it tends to bring out imperfections. The price of a gallon of glossy painting can vary from $40 to $80.00.

Factors to consider

Consider the function of the room and how much activity it receives when choosing the sheen you want for your interior walls and trim. Flat or eggshell finishes are great for low-traffic rooms like bedrooms and living areas. Choose a paint that has a semi-gloss or satin finish for high-traffic rooms like the family room, kitchen, and bathrooms. This will make it easier to clean and more durable. Glossy finishes are ideal for furniture and trim projects.

Also, consider the lighting in your room. The sheen of the paint will be highlighted in rooms with lots of natural light. You can choose a paint with a lower sheen to tone it down.

Last but not least, you should consider the surface of your walls. Flat sheens are good for hiding wall imperfections but can make walls look dull. Glossy finishes, on the other hand, can draw attention to any imperfections. They are, therefore, not appropriate for textured walls. For textured walls, satin and eggshell sheens work well because they have a low shine without highlighting the imperfections.

Tips for Painting

Here are some tips for a smooth, even, and efficient paint job.

• Purchase good quality paint rollers or brushes to ensure a uniform spread.
• Before painting, use a primer to improve adhesion.
• Paint extenders can be used to reduce the drying time and achieve a more smooth finish.
• To avoid lap marks, work in small sections and blend the edges while you go.
• Avoid painting the same area too often.
• Let each coat dry completely before applying a new coat.
• If you’re not sure where to begin, contact a local paint company for a consultation on colors and an estimate.
• If you don’t want to do it yourself, local painting companies may offer discounts based on the size of your project.

The sheen of your interior paint is just as important as the color. When choosing the right sheen, consider the room’s purpose, the level of activity in the space, the lighting, and the wall texture. Follow the above tips to get a smooth, even finish when you paint. Your home’s interior will look great and be well-maintained for many years with the right sheen.