Types of Paint Sheens: Flat & Eggshell

The triumph of your paint job depends on realizing which paint type to use for various purposes and surfaces. For instance, using an incorrect paint to cover imperfections could highlight the problem you’re trying to correct.
 
Knowing your paint sheens
Paint sheens come in various categories, and every one has its characteristics. When researching new paints for your project, give sheens a real consideration.

There are five fundamental paint sheens: satin, gloss, semi-gloss, flat, and eggshell.

These sheens suggest the performance and aesthetics of the paint. For example, flat offers no-shine. Gloss paint sheen is the shiniest. Satin, semi-gloss, and eggshell come somewhere in the middle.

Paint Sheen: Flat & Eggshell

Flat
According to interior painting experts, flat finishes have a low reflective sheen and produces a smooth appearance in spaces with surface imperfections. These finish types are used to create appeal and dimension in any space.

In addition to concealing imperfections, flat finishes are simple to touch up. This makes them an excellent choice for dining room walls and ceilings. Though, flat sheens are best for low traffic areas, since this paint type might not hold up well to scrubbing or repeated washing.

Eggshell
Eggshell is suggested for high-traffic areas of your house. This high-sheen product provides more durability.

The name is very deceiving. The saying “walking on eggshells” doesn’t suggest durability and satin fabrics are the most difficult to clean. However, painting pros recommend an eggshell finish for bathrooms and kitchens that have lots of activity, as higher sheen finishes can usually endure repeated touching and cleaning.

Also, they’re great options for living rooms, family rooms, and bedrooms, What’s the difference between eggshell and satin? The latter is a little more long-lasting.

Not every project needs a base coat or primer. It is essential that the substrate before painting is clean and uniform in porosity, mainly if the finish coat will have a sheen. Primers are constructed to create uniformity and seal the surface, developing a consistent shine in the finish coat.

Talk with a Rochester painter for more information and advice on which paint sheen will work best for your project.

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