There is a perfect coating and paint finish for every project. While this may not be the most exciting topic, choosing the right finish for your project is a must-know that you will help you avoid making costly mistakes.
As a professional color consultant, I not only help clients choose the perfect color palette but the best finishes for their space as well.
Here is a basic guide to the different types and what they are best suited for:
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Water-Based Coatings
This is the most popular coating for interior paint projects. Many brands are non-toxic or low fumes and it is easy to clean up because it is water-based. This coating works well for most projects.
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Oil-Based Latex Coatings
This coating emits fumes but provides shine and durability. These coatings can be used on an interior or exterior project. For cleanup, solvents such as turpentine are required.
Each paint manufacturer offers a unique range of sheen options, spanning from completely matte to high-gloss finishes. Here’s a guide to the most popular sheens and how to use them effectively in different spaces:
This finish is flat and has very little reflective value. It hides imperfections and offers a clean and relaxed look and feel. However it is also less durable and difficult to clean, so use it in rooms with low traffic such as the home office, dining room, garage, closets, and ceilings.
This is the most popular finish for painting interior walls and main living areas. It is the standard finish, because it is durable and adds reflective warmth to any room. This sheen is also easier to clean. Use it in the family room, living room, bedrooms, and well-ventilated kitchens or bathrooms. Satin sheen is also great for rooms with a bit more traffic, such as children’s bedrooms, playrooms or any rooms with lots of activity.
This sheen a very reflective paint finishes and offers the high shine. Use it for painting trim, molding, fireplace mantles, doors, window sills, and any rooms with high traffic areas, such as the entryway or laundry room. Kitchen cabinetry and decorative furniture also work well with a semi-gloss sheen. This sheen is also most helpful in rooms with low ventilation and high moisture such as smaller kitchens and bathrooms. It is durable and easy to clean, but will also highlight imperfections.
This is the most reflective of all the paint finishes and offers the highest shine. Use it for painting trim, baseboards, molding, fireplace mantles, custom built-ins, doors, window sills, and any rooms with high traffic areas, such as the entryway or laundry room. This sheen is also great in rooms with low ventilation and high moisture such as smaller or enclosed kitchens and bathrooms. It is very durable and easy to clean. However, it will also show flaws such as dents, nicks, or scratches due to its high sheen.
Current Paint Finish Trends to Try:
The higher the sheen, the more dramatic the look!
The biggest trends we are seeing with paint sheens right now include:
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Mixed Sheens for more visual interest!
Lower sheens like Matte with higher sheens like Semi-Gloss, metallic, or pearlescent finishes to create a layered effect. Think stripes, lattice and stenciled patterns. This creates a wallpaper effect full of texture.
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High Gloss Ceilings create a gorgeous effect!
Go with a light color like sky blue or choose a deeper, richer color like Navy, Dark Green, or Burgundy to create even more drama on a dining room or entry ceiling. Just be careful and test darker colors to be sure you are ready to go bold.
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High Gloss Walls are on trend!
Using high gloss on a focal wall, entry or half bath will bring more drama, energy, style, and it will looks stunning!
Additional Tips
- Always Test Paint Finishes and Colors
Colors can vary significantly based on paint texture and lighting conditions. Testing paint colors beforehand ensures they look as expected, helping you avoid costly mistakes. Sampling colors and finishes before committing to full-size cans saves both time and money, ensuring the result aligns with your vision.
What's your favorite paint finish? Let me know in a comment below!
