Wall Paint - Should I Use Flat Or Satin? Flat paint helps hide imperfections and is more convenient, while satin paint lasts for longer and is easier to clean. . Both are still very useful around the home.
As professional painters, we do a lot of interior jobs in houses or businesses. While our clients may differ, they all come to us with similar questions. Without a doubt, the most common question is whether flat or satin is best for wall paint.
We get asked this a lot, so let's take a look at both options and see if we can provide a clear answer for all of you:
The Main Differences Between Flat and Satin Paint
The most obvious difference between the two options is in how they look. Flat paint has zero shine and provides more of a velvety/matte look. By contrast, satin paint has a slight shine to it, almost like that of an eggshell. In fact, it is sometimes referred to as eggshell paint.
Furthermore, there are differences relating to a few key things:
Cost: Typically, flat paint is a lot cheaper than satin paint, which is more of a premium, high-end, option.
Application: Flat paint is much easier for you or a professional painter to apply, making it highly convenient.
Maintenance: Satin paint is easier to clean and scrub, and it is also moisture-resistant. Flat paint can be cleaned easily, but can't handle scrubbing as well as satin paint.
Durability: If you compare the two options, both will last for a long time, but satin paint tends to be more durable and longer-lasting.
Imperfections: Despite being more durable, satin paint will show imperfections in your walls a lot more obviously than flat paint. This is down to the glossy nature, making it hard to hide things like cracks or patches. With the matte effect of flat paint, any minor imperfections are hidden away.
So, Which Is Better?
When you weigh up the pros and cons of each, it's still quite hard to choose a winner. On the one hand, you have flat paint. It's more affordable, convenient, covers imperfections, and is relatively easy to maintain.
On the other, you have satin paint. It offers a premium finish, is easier to clean, and offers more durability and longevity. So, how are you supposed to make a decision?
In reality, flat paint is the best choice for most areas of your home. This is because it is affordable and will do a great job of hiding any imperfections in the walls all over your house. However, it is perhaps better to opt for satin paint in high-traffic areas. Places like your kitchen and bathroom are particularly well-suited to satin paint because of the moisture resistance it provides.
In summary, it's all about picking the right paint for the room. In terms of colors, both options have extensive colors to choose from, so this shouldn't be an issue. If you still need help deciding what paint to use in your home, then contact us today. As experienced interior painters, we can look at your home and provide expert recommendations and suggestions on what to pick. Of course, we are more than happy to carry out the work as well!