Picking the Perfect Paint Sheen for your Home!

Choosing the right paint color is exciting, but choosing the right sheen is just as important. Paint sheen affects how your walls look, how they hold up over time, and how easy they are to clean.



At Mike’s Quality Painting, we help homeowners select the best sheen for each space to ensure long-lasting beauty and performance. Here’s a breakdown of the most common paint sheens and where they work best.

Flat (Matte) Sheen

Best for: Ceilings, low-traffic rooms, older walls

Flat or matte paint has little to no shine, giving walls a soft, smooth appearance.

Pros:

• Hides imperfections extremely well
  
• Creates a modern, elegant look
  
• Great for uneven or older surfaces
  
  

Cons:

• Not very washable
  
• Shows scuffs more easily
  
• Not ideal for high-traffic areas
  

Eggshell Sheen

Best for: Living rooms, bedrooms, dining rooms

Eggshell has a slight sheen, just enough to add durability without noticeable shine.

Pros:

• Subtle, soft glow
  
• More washable than flat
  
• Good balance of appearance and durability
  
  

Cons:

Still not ideal for heavy wear areas

Satin Sheen

Best for: Hallways, kids’ rooms, kitchens, bathrooms

Satin is one of the most popular sheens due to its versatility and durability.



Pros:

• Easy to clean
  
• Stands up well to moisture and traffic
  
• Smooth, elegant finish
  
  

Cons:

• Can highlight surface imperfections more than flat or eggshell
  

Semi-Gloss Sheen

Best for: Trim, doors, cabinets, bathrooms

Semi-gloss has a noticeable shine and is highly durable.



Pros:

• Very easy to clean
  
• Moisture-resistant
  
• Durable and long-lasting
  
  

Cons:

• Shows imperfections easily
  
• Too shiny for large wall areas

High-Gloss Sheen

Best for: Accent pieces, doors, furniture

High-gloss is the shiniest option and makes a bold statement.

Pros:

• Extremely durable
  
• Easiest to clean
  
• Dramatic, polished look
  
  

Cons:

• Highlights every flaw
  
• Requires extensive surface preparation

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