Are you getting ready to repaint? Struggling to decide what sheen or finish you should choose? There are a number of different sheen levels, but it's not always easy to tell what's right for your home. Is it a high traffic area? Or low? What condition is the wall in currently? All of these things play a factor in what type of sheen level you should use. We're here to help you decide which sheen is right for your home painting project.

Flat or Matte finishes

Flat or matte finishes are a great choice for ceilings and other low-traffic areas. They provide a nice depth of color, but don't reflect a lot of light. This makes them ideal for less-than-perfect surfaces with imperfections that a glossier finish might emphasize.

Eggshell & Satin finishes

The slight sheens of eggshell and satin reveal color with a softly polished glow. These finishes are easy to clean, so they're great for higher-traffic areas like living rooms and hallways. They're also great for colored ceilings to help reflect some light onto the color.

Semi-gloss finishes

The semi-gloss finish is a great option if you're looking for a durable finish that stands up well to repeated cleanings. This finish reflects more light than other finishes, which can help make the room feel brighter and more open.

We often recommend this finish for moldings and trim because it will last longer than a gloss or matte finish, which makes it a good choice for areas that see heavier traffic.

Pearl finishes

Pearl is a popular choice for kitchens and bathrooms, as well as for trim details. It has an almost iridescent quality that gives it an elegant look and makes it a great choice for more formal spaces. Because it creates a smooth, less porous surface, pearl is also easier to clean than other paints and coatings.

Ultimately, you need to choose the paint sheen that will work best for your home's interior or exterior. Knowing what sheen is right for any particular room can make a huge difference in how long it lasts, so if you're not sure, get in touch with one of our paint experts to guide your decision.