- Flat – Flat paints are non-reflective resulting in a matte finish, which helps to hide surface imperfections. Flat paints are typically used on ceilings because this sheen of paint is not easy to clean. Flat paints are also known for hiding minor blemishes in drywall on ceilings.
- Eggshell – Eggshell paints are the midway point of sheen between flat and satin. It gets its name from its similarity in sheen to an eggshell. It is more durable than a flat paint, with only a slight shine or gloss to it. It is commonly used on walls, but it not very easy to clean.
- Satin – Satin finish presents a smooth, velvety sheen with a bit more gloss than an eggshell finish. Satin finish is more durable and stain resistant than flat paint as it provides a much harder surface finish. Because of its durability, satin finish is a smart choice for walls in hallways, stairways, children’s rooms, and family rooms. It is also commonly used on doors, trim, and windows. Paint with satin finish is formulated to hold up to cleaning and light scrubbing.
- Semi-Gloss – Semi-gloss paints are very durable, stain resistant, and easy to clean. Semi-gloss paints have a shinier sheen than satins. They are largely used on heavy wear surfaces or surfaces that are cleaned routinely such as bathrooms and kitchens. Semi-gloss paints are also commonly used on cabinets and wood trim.
- Gloss – Gloss paint is the hardest, most stain resistant, most durable, most radiant sheen paint finish. It is also much easier to clean that any other paint finish. Gloss paints are the best choice for heavy wear areas such as bathrooms, floors, stairs, kitchens, handrails, and cabinets. This type of paint finish makes surface imperfections much more noticeable, however.
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