Guide to Interior Paint Finishes:

Moving often comes with painting, sometimes outside but almost always inside. Though choosing a color for interior rooms is important it isn’t the only challenge. What finish will look, and wear, best in the space? There are three basic variations to choose from, each with their own set of pros and cons. Matte/flat Matte paint looks softer, richer and deeper than other finishes, and it is the most

effective at hiding cracks and other minor wall blemishes. On the down side its porous surface absorbs stains and odors easily, and it is difficult (if not impossible) to clean. It also scuffs and wears easily and may need frequent touch-ups. Matte finish paint is best used in extremely low traffic areas, such as on ceilings. Satin/eggshell Satin or eggshell finish has a slight satin-like “sheen” to the surface, meaning it reflects more light and is slightly more durable. Satin/eggshell finish paint can handle light cleaning, is more resistant to scuffing and damage, and is often used in heavier traffic

hallways and main living areas. Semi-gloss/high-gloss Semi and high-gloss paints have a significant shine factor (high-gloss slightly more so than semi-gloss) that makes them durable and easy to clean, and ideal for bringing accent areas such as banisters, doors, kitchen cabinets, and other trim to the forefront. Unfortunately that same shine also has a tendency to accentuate even the smallest blemishes and imperfections, so semi and high-gloss paints are best reserved for smaller high-traffic trim and accent areas.

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