An Expert's Guide to Paint Coatings and Finishes

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 will help you avoid making costly mistakes.

As a professional color consultant, I not only help clients choose the perfect color palette but also the best finishes for their space as well.

Here is a basic guide to the different types and what they are best suited for:

• Water-Based Coatings
  This is the most popular coating for interior paint projects. Many brands are non-toxic or have low fumes, and are easy to clean up because they are water-based. This coating works well for most projects.
• 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:

• Flat/Matte

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. 

• Eggshell / Satin

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.

• Semi-Gloss/ Gloss

This sheen has a very reflective paint finish and offers a 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.

• Enamel/High-Gloss

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.