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Choosing the right paint color is only part of the equation when starting a painting project. Just as important—but often overlooked—is selecting the proper paint finish. The finish you choose affects not only the look of your space but also how well the paint will hold up to daily wear and cleaning.
Whether you’re painting the interior of your home or giving your exterior a fresh new look, Matthews’ Painting Company has the knowledge and experience to guide you in selecting the best paint finish for your specific needs.
What Is a Paint Finish?
A paint finish, also known as sheen, refers to how shiny or matte the paint appears once it dries. It affects both the look and durability of the painted surface. From flat or matte finishes with no shine to high-gloss finishes with a reflective surface, each sheen has its own best uses depending on the room, surface, and desired effect.
Here’s a breakdown of the most common paint finishes and where each one works best:
Flat (Matte) Finish
Best for: Ceilings, low-traffic areas, adult bedrooms
Why choose it:
Flat paint provides a smooth, non-reflective finish that helps hide surface imperfections like bumps or small cracks. It gives walls a soft, velvety appearance and is ideal for rooms that don’t see a lot of activity.
Things to note:
While it offers great coverage, flat paint can be difficult to clean. It’s not recommended for kitchens, bathrooms, or kids’ rooms.
Eggshell Finish
Best for: Living rooms, dining rooms, hallways
Why choose it:
Eggshell has a low-sheen finish that adds a slight hint of luster—just enough to bring a wall to life without showing every imperfection. It’s more durable than flat paint and easier to wipe down, making it a popular choice for common areas.
Things to note:
It’s a great middle ground between flat and shinier finishes, balancing beauty and washability.
Satin Finish
Best for: Kitchens, bathrooms, children’s rooms, laundry rooms
Why choose it:
Satin finishes are versatile and offer a soft, pearl-like sheen. They’re moisture-resistant and easy to clean, which makes them ideal for rooms where splashes and spills are common.
Things to note:
Because of its slight shine, surface prep is important. Satin will highlight wall flaws, roller texture and brush marks more than eggshell, flat or matte will.
Semi-Gloss Finish
Best for: Trim, doors, cabinets
Why choose it:
This finish is highly durable and resistant to moisture, grease, and frequent cleaning. It reflects more light than satin, giving surfaces a noticeable shine and crisp appearance—perfect for highlighting architectural details.
Things to note:
Since it’s more reflective, any imperfections in the surface will be more visible. Proper prep and sanding are key.
Gloss/High-Gloss Finish
Best for: Industrial and commercial trim and doors
Why choose it:
High-gloss finishes offer a glass-like shine and are the most durable of all paint types. They’re great for areas that get touched often or need frequent cleaning.
Things to note:
Because of their extreme sheen, gloss paints will magnify flaws. It’s best used on well-prepped, smooth surfaces.
Expert Interior and Exterior Painting You Can Trust
At Matthews’ Painting Company, we understand the high expectations you place on professional painters to protect and improve your greatest investment—your home. That’s why we’ve built a team of highly trained, skilled painters who take pride in delivering exceptional results for both interior and exterior projects.
We’ve completed well over 2,000 homes across Northern Indiana and are committed to building long-term relationships with our clients through top-tier craftsmanship, clear communication, and outstanding customer service.
Need a Professional Painter?
We specialize in interior and exterior painting, drywall repair, ceiling texture matching, and more. Contact us today at 574-834-3575 or book an estimate online 24 hours a day.
