What is the Difference Between Flat, Matte and Satin Paint?
Do you plan to paint a room or refresh a piece of furniture? Besides picking a color, base, and formula, you’ll also need to choose a paint finish. From the classic eggshell and satin to the more modern semi-gloss, each type of finish has its own pros and cons. That’s why we’re going to break down the differences between the three main types of finishes and help you figure out which one to pick.
Gloss Paint Finish
Due to its durability, the glossy finish was once one of the most popular finishes. But nowadays, paint technology has advanced so much that almost all finishes are hard-wearing. Even so, semi-gloss remains the most reflective finish out there, making it perfect for areas of your home exposed to high traffic, such as the bathroom. However, you should avoid using high-gloss paint on old woodwork, as that will highlight any imperfections.
Eggshell Paint Finish
The eggshell paint finish is almost matte, meaning that it doesn’t have any reflective, shiny, or sheen qualities. It is the go-to choice for metalwork, wood surfaces, and furniture like kitchen cabinets. This type of finish is also usually used to recreate a shabby chic look.
The main benefit of eggshell finishes is their durability, making them ideal for high-traffic areas. Additionally, you can wash eggshell paints using a soft cloth and a mild cleaning solution without the fear of harming the surface. Therefore, if you want an easy-to-clean and reliable finish, you can’t go wrong with eggshell paint.
Satin Paint Finish
Last but not least, satin is a great compromise between the reflective semi-gloss and the flat eggshell. Since it is not so reflective, satinwood finishes tend to look more modern and more solid.
When it comes to durability, satin can withstand heavy traffic. Not only that, but you can easily clean it, just like eggshell paint. Therefore, satin paints are practical throughout the house. But if you want to get the most out of it, you should use this type of finish on large surfaces such as interior doors.
Which One to Choose?
Overall, choosing between gloss, eggshell, and satin boils down to your specific needs. For instance, if you want to paint your kitchen furniture, eggshell is a no-brainer. However, when painting your home’s baseboards and trims, you should pick semi-gloss.
Still can’t decide which type of paint to use? Then it’s time to give Mike’s Decorating & Painting a call. With more than twenty years of experience in both interior and exterior painting, we know what exactly works best for any home.
So, what do you say; are you ready to turn your dream painting project into reality?