Choosing a paint color is just the start of the painting process, you then have to decide which finish you would like for that color.

Why hasn’t your paint color lasted as long on your walls as you thought it would? You chose a color that wouldn’t show your kids’ fingerprints and other dirt, or so you thought. Many homeowners are so excited about painting their homes that they have only thought about paint colors and not paint finishes . They use the wrong level of finish or sheen which doesn’t hold up to the function of the room.

What Are the Main Paint Color Finishes?

Your paint finish will not only affect the look of your painted room but it will also affect your paint color’s durability. A flat paint finish will not give any shine whereas high gloss is very shiny. Eggshell, satin and semi-gloss fall in between them.

1. Flat Finish.

We recommend using a flat finish on walls and ceilings that have imperfections because it has no shine to highlight them. It has the highest colorant and will provide the best coverage. It gives a smooth look to your walls and ceiling. The downside is that it can be difficult to clean without removing some of the paint. It’s best to apply this type of finish to rooms that won’t take a lot of abuse from kids such as adult bedrooms. You also want to keep extra paint on hand for any touch-ups needed.

Where to Use It: adult or guest bedrooms or formal living rooms, dining rooms, ceilings

2. Eggshell/Satin Finish.

This paint finish resembles the light sheen that is like the appearance of an eggshell. If you want a soft velvety finish, this paint sheen is the one for you. A satin finish offers slightly more shine to it. Both finishes can be used in rooms that are designed for lots of activity because they are excellent at resisting mildew, dirt, and stains. Eggshell and satin finishes offer more warmth and depth to your walls than flat finish does.

Where to Use Them: family room, dining room, laundry room, kids’ bedrooms, living room, dining room, foyer, hallways, playroom

3. Semi-gloss.

This type of finish creates a bright, shiny look and can clean up easily. However, avoid using it on walls with imperfections or you will be showcasing all the wall’s flaws. Another benefit semi-gloss finish offers is better moisture and mildew-resistance.

Where to Use IT: trim, railings, shutters, moldings, and kitchen cabinets, doors, woodwork

4. Gloss or High Gloss

This paint finish contains the most sheen. It is very cleanable and durable. However, we rarely get requests for it because it is difficult to touch up and shows every little wall imperfection such as small dings. In fact, if you wanted to touch up an area, you probably would have to repaint the entire wall to get a consistent look. Most people reserve it for furniture or appliance painting.

Where to Use It: furniture, appliances, doors, trim

How Can Using the Wrong Paint Color Finish Cost You More Money?

When you choose the wrong paint color finish, your paint color:

1. Can’t withstand the wear and tear of traffic, kids’ activity, or possible moisture or mildew issues;
2. Can darken your rooms making them look smaller or over lighten rooms making them look washed out.
3. Will highlight wall imperfections.

Consequently, you will need to have your home painted sooner costing you more money.

When you have your home painted by A New Leaf Painting of Jacksonville, Florida, we not only help with paint color selection, but we advise as to the best paint finish for the rooms you are repainting. We want your new paint color to make a great impression for years to come. We know using the wrong paint color finish can cost you more money in repainting charges.

Visit our website to learn more about our Jacksonville, Florida painting contractors and schedule your free painting consultation today.

Our Skilled Painters in Jacksonville, FL serve the following areas.