The Difference in Interior Paint Finishes

December 30, 2023

How to use the different finishes to your benefit.

Are you tired of staring at your dull, lifeless walls? It's time to give your home a much-needed makeover. But before you grab that paintbrush, you must understand the different interior paint finishes and their benefits when it comes to repainting your home's interior. From high gloss to flat matte, each type of finish offers its own unique advantages. So, whether you want to add a touch of elegance to your trim or hide those pesky imperfections, a paint finish is perfect for you. But which one should you choose? Well, you'll just have to keep reading to find out.

Gloss Finishes

Gloss finishes, with their high-gloss and reflective surface, add a touch of sophistication and sheen to any interior space. These finishes provide a smooth and shiny appearance that instantly elevates the overall aesthetic of a room. The high gloss creates a smooth finish reflecting light, giving a dramatic effect that will impress. Not only do gloss finishes enhance the visual appeal of a space, but they also offer practical benefits.


These finishes are highly durable and easy to clean, perfect for areas requiring frequent maintenance, such as trim, doors, and furniture. Their washability surpasses flat finishes, ensuring that dirt or smudges can be effortlessly wiped away. It's important to note that gloss finishes are not ideal for covering imperfections on walls, as their reflective surface tends to highlight any flaws. However, gloss finishes create a sleek and polished look that truly stands out when used on details like trim and doors. So, if you're looking to add a touch of elegance and shine to your interior space, consider incorporating high gloss finishes into your design.

Non-Gloss Finishes

When it comes to interior paint finishes, non-gloss options provide a versatile and durable solution for a variety of spaces. These finishes offer lower levels of shine, giving your walls a no-shine finish that is perfect for achieving a more subtle and understated look. Two popular non-gloss finishes are eggshell and satin.


Eggshell paint has a low luster and is washable with a 10-25% sheen. It covers wall imperfections well, making it a great choice for spaces where you want to conceal any flaws. However, it is worth noting that eggshell paint is less durable than higher gloss finishes.



Satin paint, on the other hand, has a pearl-like sheen with a gloss level of 26-40%. It is a versatile option that works well in high-use rooms. Satin paint is easy to clean and maintain, making it ideal for spaces that require frequent cleaning.  However, it can be challenging to touch up without it being apparent, so it is recommended for high-traffic areas.

Flat Finish on the wall with a slight texture showing depth and character.

Flat Finishes

As we shift our focus to the world of non-gloss finishes, let's explore the captivating realm of flat finishes and the unique benefits they bring to your interior spaces.


  1. Concealing Imperfections: Flat finishes are the ultimate solution for hiding those pesky wall imperfections that can mar the beauty of your space. Their non-reflective nature absorbs more light than it reflects, making flaws like dents and uneven surfaces less noticeable.
  2. Serene and Sophisticated: Imagine a bedroom painted in a velvety flat finish, casting a serene and sophisticated ambiance. Flat finishes offer a solid appearance that adds depth and richness to your interior walls, creating a calming and luxurious atmosphere.
  3. Low-Traffic Areas: Flat finishes are best suited for interior rooms that experience minimal foot traffic. Think adult bedrooms, formal dining spaces, or cozy reading nooks. These areas benefit from the smooth and even finish of flat paint, allowing the focus to remain on the overall design and decor.
  4. Concealed Stains: While it's true that flat finishes are less resistant to stains and can be challenging to clean without removing some paint, they have a unique ability to mask stains. This makes them ideal for areas where spills and accidents are less likely to occur, allowing you to enjoy the beauty of your walls without constant worry.


With their ability to conceal imperfections and create a serene and sophisticated atmosphere, flat finishes bring a touch of elegance to your interior spaces. Consider using them in low-traffic areas where you can appreciate their beauty without compromising on functionality.

Factors to Consider

Consideration of the room's primary use and desired appearance is essential when selecting the appropriate paint sheen. Different paint finishes offer various benefits depending on the desired look and functionality of the space. When choosing a paint finish for your interior, it is important to evaluate the level of traffic in the area. For high-traffic areas such as hallways, entryways, and kitchens, choosing a finish that holds up well against wear and tear is crucial.


Gloss finishes, like high-gloss and semi-gloss, are highly durable and easy to clean, making them perfect for these areas. On the other hand, for rooms that are less frequently used, you may opt for non-gloss finishes like eggshell or satin. These finishes offer good durability and washability, making them suitable for areas that require occasional cleaning.


Additionally, if you're looking to hide imperfections on your walls, flat finishes like flat and matte are the way to go. They provide a solid appearance and help conceal flaws or uneven surfaces. By considering these factors, you can choose the right interior paint finish for each room in your home, ensuring both functionality and aesthetics.

Considerations when choosing an interior paint finish. By a house painter in Boise, Idaho, Paul's Precision Painting

Factors to Consider

Consideration of the room's primary use and desired appearance is essential when selecting the appropriate paint sheen. Different paint finishes offer various benefits depending on the desired look and functionality of the space. When choosing a paint finish for your interior, it is important to evaluate the level of traffic in the area. For high-traffic areas such as hallways, entryways, and kitchens, choosing a finish that holds up well against wear and tear is crucial.


Gloss finishes, like high-gloss and semi-gloss, are highly durable and easy to clean, making them perfect for these areas. On the other hand, for rooms that are less frequently used, you may opt for non-gloss finishes like eggshell or satin. These finishes offer good durability and washability, making them suitable for areas that require occasional cleaning.


Additionally, if you're looking to hide imperfections on your walls, flat finishes like flat and matte are the way to go. They provide a solid appearance and help conceal flaws or uneven surfaces. By considering these factors, you can choose the right interior paint finish for each room in your home, ensuring both functionality and aesthetics.

Considerations when choosing an interior paint finish. By a house painter in Boise, Idaho, Paul's Precision Painting

Seeking Professional Advice

For personalized recommendations and expert insights on the best paint finishes for your home, seeking professional local painters' advice is the key to achieving optimal results. With the wide range of paint finishes available, choosing the right one for each space can be overwhelming. That's where professionals come in. Here are four reasons why seeking professional advice is essential when it comes to selecting the perfect paint finishes:


  • Customized Recommendations: Professionals understand the different types of wall paint and can provide personalized recommendations based on your specific needs and preferences. They consider factors such as lighting, color, and usage to guide you towards the ideal finish paint for each room.
  • Expert Knowledge: Professionals have in-depth knowledge about paint finishes and their benefits. They can offer insights on which finishes are best suited for high-traffic areas, where durability is crucial, and which finishes are ideal for creating a certain aesthetic.
  • Surface Preparation and Application Techniques: Proper surface preparation is essential for achieving a flawless finish. Professionals can guide you on the necessary steps to prepare your walls before applying the chosen paint finish. They also have the expertise to ensure proper application techniques, resulting in a smooth and professional-looking result.
  • Mixing Sheens: If you're looking for a custom finish, professionals can advise you on how to mix different sheens to achieve the desired effect. Whether you want to create a subtle contrast or a bold statement, their expertise can help you achieve the perfect blend.

  • What Paint Finish Is Best for Interior?

    For the best interior paint finish, consider factors like desired glossiness, durability, and imperfection concealment. 


    Also, think about the level of traffic in the space. Seeking professional advice ensures optimal results and recommendations.

  • Is Eggshell or Satin Better for Walls?

    For walls that need a touch of elegance, satin paint is the way to go. Its pearl-like finish adds a subtle sheen, making your walls glow. Say goodbye to stains and hello to a durable and easy-to-clean surface.

  • What Is the Downside of Eggshell Paint?

    The downside of eggshell paint is its low durability and difficulty in cleaning compared to higher gloss finishes. It can also highlight surface imperfections and is not recommended for high-traffic areas or spaces with moisture.

  • What Are the Disadvantages of Satin Paint?

    The disadvantages of satin paint include revealing application flaws, reflecting more light, challenging touch-ups, and showing marks easily. It may not be suitable for areas with wall imperfections or frequent cleanings. Seek professional advice for optimal results.

Our previous post highlights the importance of interior painting when selling your home; check it out here. 

or

How to Pick the Best Interior Paint Color

Seeking Professional Advice

For personalized recommendations and expert insights on the best paint finishes for your home, seeking professional local painters' advice is the key to achieving optimal results. With the wide range of paint finishes available, choosing the right one for each space can be overwhelming. That's where professionals come in. Here are four reasons why seeking professional advice is essential when it comes to selecting the perfect paint finishes:


  • Customized Recommendations: Professionals understand the different types of wall paint and can provide personalized recommendations based on your specific needs and preferences. They consider factors such as lighting, color, and usage to guide you towards the ideal finish paint for each room.
  • Expert Knowledge: Professionals have in-depth knowledge about paint finishes and their benefits. They can offer insights on which finishes are best suited for high-traffic areas, where durability is crucial, and which finishes are ideal for creating a certain aesthetic.
  • Surface Preparation and Application Techniques: Proper surface preparation is essential for achieving a flawless finish. Professionals can guide you on the necessary steps to prepare your walls before applying the chosen paint finish. They also have the expertise to ensure proper application techniques, resulting in a smooth and professional-looking result.
  • Mixing Sheens: If you're looking for a custom finish, professionals can advise you on how to mix different sheens to achieve the desired effect. Whether you want to create a subtle contrast or a bold statement, their expertise can help you achieve the perfect blend.

  • What Paint Finish Is Best for Interior?

    For the best interior paint finish, consider factors like desired glossiness, durability, and imperfection concealment. 


    Also, think about the level of traffic in the space. Seeking professional advice ensures optimal results and recommendations.

  • Is Eggshell or Satin Better for Walls?

    For walls that need a touch of elegance, satin paint is the way to go. Its pearl-like finish adds a subtle sheen, making your walls glow. Say goodbye to stains and hello to a durable and easy-to-clean surface.

  • What Is the Downside of Eggshell Paint?

    The downside of eggshell paint is its low durability and difficulty in cleaning compared to higher gloss finishes. It can also highlight surface imperfections and is not recommended for high-traffic areas or spaces with moisture.

  • What Are the Disadvantages of Satin Paint?

    The disadvantages of satin paint include revealing application flaws, reflecting more light, challenging touch-ups, and showing marks easily. It may not be suitable for areas with wall imperfections or frequent cleanings. Seek professional advice for optimal results.

Our previous post highlights the importance of interior painting when selling your home; check it out here. 

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