Different paint colors can impact how a room looks or feels. The type of paint used will also have a similar impact on a room. Once you have your color picked out, the next step is choosing the right paint type to create the effect you want.
So, what are your choices?
Satin
Satin is one of the more popular finishes used. This finish will create a low or soft sheen that is between a matte and gloss finish. This is an excellent finish for kitchens, kids’ rooms, and bathrooms. Anywhere you will be washing the walls regularly. But, keep in mind, you will want to make sure that the wall does not have a lot of imperfection in it. The satin finish will highlight those imperfections and make them stand out.
Eggshell
The eggshell finish creates a soft shine that is very subtle. But it does not have the same smoothness you will find with a satin finish. This means that it will not highlight the wall perfections like a satin finish will. This is a super easy finish to apply and will provide great coverage with just a single coat. Plus, this finish will typically cover more are with less paint than a matte finish paint.
Gloss
Besides matte finish paint, gloss finish paint is one of the most common finish choices for interior paint. You can use it on most walls, although it will show any imperfections. To cover those up and achieve even coverage, you will need more than a single coat.
Shiny paints do take longer to dry, so be sure to factor that in when starting your paint project.
Semi-Gloss
The semi-gloss finish is perfect to use on trim. It provides a hard finish that stands up to heavy use and is easy to clean. Most times, you can wash with just soap and water. It does not have the same shine as the gloss paint, but it is easier to achieve even coverage with only one coat.
Matte
A matte finish does not have a shine or a sheen to it, which makes it ideal for walls you have an imperfection that you don’t want to be highlighted. It is the most common of the interior wall finishes. It can take more than one coat to achieve even coverage, but it is easy to apply. You can apply with either a brush or a roller. Matte finish is easily marked-up, but it easy to clean with just a damp cloth. It will require regular touch-ups.
Matte Enamel
A matte enamel finish is more durable than regular matte. It is easier to clean. It will require fewer touch-ups. Making it excellent for the kitchen area. It is also great for young kids. Anywhere you will need to be washing the walls regularly. It has the same visual effect of the standard matte finish. You can apply it with the same methods.
Tip:
To achieve the best coverage with any paint, take the time to properly prep the area you want to paint.