We find that choosing a paint color gets most of the time and attention, but finish matters just as much, if not more. We find clients get easily overwhelmed where paint is concerned, so we want to help.

Most people aren’t aware that the paint finish, or “sheen,” chosen directly affects how the color looks, as well as how well the surface will hide imperfections and even how easily you can wipe away fingerprints, splashes, and other signs of everyday wear. In general, lower-sheen finishes create a softer look and do a better job masking flaws, while higher-sheen finishes are more durable, more moisture-resistant, and easier to clean. We think the main thing to consider in determining the right sheen depends on how each room is used.

Understanding the Main Paint Finishes

Flat or matte finishes have little to no shine. They are great at hiding uneven texture, patches, and minor flaws on a wall, making them a popular choice for ceilings and low-traffic spaces. The downside is that they mark more easily and can be harder to clean without leaving visible wipe marks.

Eggshell has a soft, low sheen that offers a balanced middle ground. It gives walls a gentle glow, hides minor imperfections better than shinier finishes, and holds up better to light cleaning than flat paint. For many homeowners, eggshell is the default choice for most interior walls due to its versatility.

Satin has a bit more luster and better durability. It is easier to wipe down and stands up well in busier rooms, but it also reflects more light, which means patched spots, dents, and roller marks can show more clearly if the prep work is not solid – things that will drive the detail-oriented homeowner crazy.

Semi-gloss is noticeably shinier and much easier to clean. It resists moisture well and is a practical choice for trim, doors, cabinets, and areas that need regular scrubbing. Because it reflects more light, it highlights surface flaws more than lower-sheen options.

High-gloss is the most reflective finish and is typically used sparingly for dramatic effect on furniture, specialty trim, or statement doors. It is extremely durable, but it requires excellent prep because every bump and brushstroke will show.

Now that you have the basics, we’ve created a room-by-room finish cheat sheet of what we see many clients choose. We have excellent paint subcontractors that will always offer their opinion as well, so you can get professional viewpoints.

And, if you find you’re deciding between two finishes, ask yourself three questions:

1. How often will this wall be touched?
2. How often will it need to be cleaned?
3. How perfect is the surface underneath?

If the room is low traffic and the walls are less than perfect, we suggest leaning towards a lower sheen. If the room is busy and often damp (like a bathroom), or likely to need frequent wipe-downs (think kitchen or kids play space), lean to a higher sheen.

Finally, don’t forget to consider your lighting. The more natural or directional light a room gets, the more a shinier finish can emphasize texture and patching. Before committing, we always recommend you sample your chosen color in the finish you plan to use, because the same paint color can look noticeably different in matte, eggshell, or satin depending on the light that it’s exposed to.