How to pick the perfect paint finish for your next project.

It’s not just about picking the perfect color; once you’ve landed on the perfect hue, you now have another big decision to make – what paint finish to use. Luckily, there are some easy rules to follow when it comes to picking a finish. Read on to learn what works and where..

Light

How much light you want your walls and trim to reflect definitely comes into play when choosing a paint finish. Glossy sounds like it would be light and bright, but when it comes to walls it could end up looking too reflective. Most painters and designers suggest opting for a satin or semi-gloss finish for those hard working rooms like entryways, kitchens and bathrooms.  

Dirt

You’ll want to be able to keep your freshly painted walls as perfect and clean as the day they were painted. The less gloss a paint has, the harder it is to keep clean. With that in mind, don’t use a matte or flat finish in high touch areas.

Now to get into the nitty gritty on each of the paint finishes and when and where to use them.

Glossy

Glossy paint is really shiny, think car body finish. It does have a place in homes like on doors, trim and cabinets.

Satin

A happy place if you are looking for an easy to clean finish. Satin or semi-gloss still reflects a lot of light, is quick to wipe down and won’t make your house look like a house of mirrors.

Eggshell

Eggshell is great for almost all rooms. With a slight sheen to the paint, it is reflective without being over the top. Durable and easy to clean, eggshell is a favorite for a reason.

Matte/Flat

A matte finish is a sophisticated look. For walls, matte adds a depth and richness, but comes at a price. It can be really hard to keep clean. The one spot where matte is always correct is for ceilings.

Limewash 

This finish is the new interior design darling. If you’re looking for an old world feel, limewash can make your walls pop and add a depth the other finishes can’t equal. It gives a soft, suede-like look and can add movement and dimension to your walls. Fair warning, it is delicate and cleaning walls painted in limewash is not recommended.

You’re now armed with as much information as you’ll need to choose the best paint finish for the job. Of course, if you’re still stumped, just ask one of the professionals at Imagine Painting. We are here to help.