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Choosing the Best Paint Finish for Interior Walls, Doors & Ceilings

December 29th, 2023 | 2 min read

By Kaylea Kuhlman

Green paint brush on top of paint can with green paint.

Selecting the perfect paint color for your home is just the first step in achieving the desired look and feel of each room. Equally important is choosing the right finish for your interior paint, as it greatly influences the aesthetics, durability, and functionality of the space. 

Different rooms have different requirements, and understanding which finish suits each area can help you achieve the best results. 

At Brush & Roll Painting, we have been a trusted interior painter in Omaha since 1996. We use detailed prep work and high-quality products to ensure a lasting finish.

In this article, we'll explore various paint finishes and guide you to where they work best within your home. By reading this, you will have a better understanding of the purpose of each type of interior wall finish.

It is important to remember that the type of finish is likely to perform its best with durable, high-quality paint. Cheap paint from the hardware store will not have the strength for a finish to do its job. 

High-quality paint is part of your interior painting investment. This paint is guaranteed to be long-lasting, easy to clean, and seamless to touch up. 

Compare low-quality paint to high-quality paint here to see the differences. 

What are Flat or matte paint Finishes?

Flat finishes are known for their smooth, non-reflective surface. They are a great choice for areas where you want to create a cozy, low-sheen ambiance without drawing attention to imperfections on the walls. Here are some ideal rooms for flat finishes:

  • Bedrooms: Matte finishes lend a soft, serene feel that complements the tranquil nature of bedrooms.
  • Living Room: A flat finish adds sophistication and warmth to your living space.
  • Ceilings: Using flat paint on ceilings helps diffuse light and reduces glare.

what is an Eggshell paint Finish?

Eggshell finishes have a slight sheen that falls between flat and satin. They are a versatile choice suitable for various rooms:

  • Hallways and Entryways: Eggshell can withstand wear and tear, making it ideal for high-traffic areas.
  • Dining Room: The subtle sheen adds a touch of elegance while still being easy to clean.

what is a Satin paint Finish?

Satin paint finishes have a gentle gloss. They work well in spaces that require frequent cleaning:

  • Kitchens: Satin finishes are resistant to moisture, stains, and grease, making them a practical choice for kitchens.
  • Bathrooms: The moisture-resistant nature of satin finishes is perfect for bathroom walls.

what is a Semi-Gloss paint Finish?

Semi-gloss finishes have a noticeable shine and are highly durable. They are typically used in areas that require frequent cleaning and where moisture is a concern:

  • Kitchen Cabinets: Semi-gloss adds a stylish, modern look to kitchen cabinets.
  • Bathrooms: For mold-prone areas, semi-gloss is the top choice for walls and trim.
  • Trim and Moldings: The reflective quality of semi-gloss enhances the architectural details of a room.

what is a Gloss paint Finish? 

Gloss paint finishes offer the highest level of sheen and are best suited for special applications:

  • Accent Walls: Glossy finishes can create a striking focal point in a room.
  • Doors: High-traffic doors benefit from the durability and shine of a gloss finish.

Specialty Finishes FOR INTERIOR WALLS

In addition to the standard finishes mentioned above, there are specialty finishes like metallic, chalkboard, whiteboard, and textured paints. These can add unique character to specific rooms:

  • Children's Rooms: Chalkboard or whiteboard paint turns walls into creative canvases for young artists.
  • Accent Walls: Metallic and textured finishes add depth and interest to accent walls in living rooms or dining areas.

Conclusion

Choosing the right paint finish is crucial for achieving the desired aesthetic and functionality in each room of your home. By understanding the characteristics and benefits of different finishes, you can make informed decisions that enhance the overall appeal of your living spaces. 

At Brush & Roll Painting, our certified color consults can help you pick the best paint finish and color for your project. To start your interior painting project, schedule an estimate with us below.


GET STARTED ON YOUR PROJECT

Next, learn about common misconceptions about paint sheens. These misconceptions have led others to pick the wrong finish for their project and ultimately leave them unsatisfied.

Kaylea Kuhlman

Kaylea is the Brush & Roll Painting Content Manager.