Paint Planning: Start with Finishes

Having a detailed vision of ideal rooms and spaces is one of the many perks of being a homeowner.  Part of our job is talking with clients to ensure they receive that desired look, though we’ve found that the more they know about different paint types, the more excited and involved they feel throughout our process.  So here are some quick bits of info to help people confidently communicate what has captured their imagination.

Need to blend small bumps, cracks or other imperfections? Matte finish is the ideal selection for these scenarios because it doesn’t reflect light, which would expose or even magnify these unfavorable aspects. Commonly referred to as “flat finishes,” this type of paint offers depth and is great to keep on hand for touch-ups. These are great choices for home offices, rooms for relation and rooms with low traffic as this type of paint is not washable.

Lowsheen is a popular finish for people who desire a small amount of shine and “washability.” With just a hint of gloss, this paint is also called “eggshell” after its light shine qualities and inherent likeness. Homeowners may choose to use this in common areas such as living rooms or dining rooms where natural light will enhance the shine without being overwhelming.

Satin finish is the most common finish for walls. The paint looks smooth and velvety with a bit more gloss. This finish proves to be particularly advantageous for kid’s rooms as the paint can withstand cleaning and some light scrubbing.

For those searching for the perfect paint to make doorways or trims pop, semi-gloss is a good subtle solution for these needs. In the right light, this kind of finish will find a way to shine without having a “plastic” quality. However, some people may desire that type of look which is fitting for accenting furniture and trim in formal and contemporary settings. High gloss paints are the best choice when it comes to achieving the highly reflective “squeaky clean” effect.