Choosing the Right Paint Sheen for Every Room

Color gets all the attention, but sheen (how shiny the paint is) makes a big difference in how a room looks and holds up. Here is a simple room-by-room guide.

Flat and matte

The least shiny option. Flat hides wall imperfections beautifully and gives a soft, modern look, which is why it is popular in bedrooms, living rooms, and ceilings. The trade-off is that it is harder to scrub clean.

Eggshell and satin

A slight, low sheen that is more washable than flat. Satin is the workhorse for hallways, kids' rooms, and busy family spaces because it wipes down without showing every mark.

Semi-gloss

Durable and moisture-resistant, semi-gloss is the standard for trim, baseboards, doors, and cabinets, and it holds up in bathrooms and kitchens. The slight shine highlights detail and stands up to cleaning.

A quick rule of thumb

• Bedrooms and living rooms: flat or matte.
• Hallways and high-traffic rooms: eggshell or satin.
• Trim, doors, bathrooms, kitchens: semi-gloss.

We help you choose the right sheen for how each room is actually used, so the finish looks great and lasts. Ask us during your free estimate.