The Ultimate Guide to Paint Sheen: Why It Matters & How to Pick the Right Sheen

When it comes to painting your home, selecting the right type of paint is not the only thing to consider. The paint sheen you choose can have a significant impact on the overall finish of your project, and it's important to select the correct one for the space you're painting.

Many homeowners tend to overlook the importance of paint sheen, but it sets the tone for the entire project. In this blog post, we will break down why paint sheen matters and the best ways to pick the right sheen for your project.

What is Paint Sheen?

Paint sheen is the amount of light that reflects off the painted surface. Paint manufacturers typically offer a range of sheen levels, from matte to high-gloss. Matte finishes absorb light, whereas high-gloss finishes reflect it. In between these two extremes, there are several other paint sheen options that offer their own unique look.

Why Does Paint Sheen Matter?

The sheen you pick affects how the color appears on your walls, the durability of the painted surface, and the overall aesthetic of your space.

Paint with a higher sheen level is typically more durable and easier to clean, but it can also highlight surface imperfections, whereas a lower sheen may be more forgiving.

For example, select a high-gloss paint for your kitchen or bathroom where there is high moisture and traffic can withstand scrubbing, while a flat or matte finish in this area may show dirt and scuff marks.

What are The Different Types of Paint Sheen?

The five most common types of paint sheen include the following:

• Flat or Matte: Offering a non-reflective finish with the least amount of shine, this type of paint is suitable for ceilings, interior walls, and hides surface imperfections.
• Eggshell: Eggshell offers a low-sheen finish with a slight luster and is excellent for hallways and living rooms, but it's not recommended for high-traffic areas, as it's not as durable as other sheens.
• Satin: Satin offers a subtle gloss and is in between flat and eggshell finishes. It's a great paint sheen for people who desire a bit of shine, for trim, and for bathrooms.
• Semi-gloss: Perfect for spaces that require easy-to-clean, high-shine paint, such as kitchens, bathrooms, and baseboards. This type of paint will reflect light in your space, emphasizing physical imperfections.
• High-gloss: As the shiniest of all finishes, it offers a mirror-like look and needs to be applied on smooth surfaces that are near perfect. It works well on cabinets, doors, and trim.

How Do I Pick the Right Sheen?

Picking the right paint sheen always depends on the surface you will be painting, the desired look, and the location in your home.

Our professional interior painters can advise you on the best choice of paint sheen. We will consider the durability and practicality of the space you want to transform. Factors such as existing trim and molding painted in a certain sheen should be taken into consideration, so there is consistency throughout your home.

At Five Star Painting of Tampa Bay, we understand the importance of picking the right sheen. Our professional painters can help you select the perfect paint sheen for your project by providing recommendations based on your goals and space. For all of our interior painting projects, we use premium-quality paint and provide a professional finish to transform the look of any room.

Trust Us to Help Pick the Perfect Paint Sheen

The proper paint sheen and finish can not only complete your vision but enhance it as well. Selecting the right sheen can make a significant impact on the aesthetic and feel of your room, so it is crucial to do your research and obtain professional advice to make the project a success.

At Five Star Painting of Tampa Bay, we’re backed by over 15 years of experience in the painting industry. We’re locally owned and operated by Luis Badel who loves serving our community with customer-focused, quality-driven™ interior painting service.

We’re always here to serve your painting needs and will help you choose the perfect paint sheen for your project. If you’re interested in our interior house painting services, you’re welcome to schedule your free estimate online.