Selecting Paint Finishes

Have your interiors gone flat?

So!....You’ve selected that “perfect paint color”; now it’s time for another important decision. Yes, it’s time to select that “perfect paint finish.” Paint finishes are designed for specific surfaces and use. These tips will you help you find the appropriate paint finish for the job and eliminate the confusion. Note: Some paint manufacturers have their own name for these finishes. If this is the case, refer to the manufacturer’s literature or ask the person mixing the paint.

TIPS:

FLAT- is just like it sounds; it’s a matte finish. Flat is the first finish choice for interior ceilings and exterior walls; it’s the second choice for interior walls. Flat does not reflect light and is the best finish to camouflage small wall bumps, cracks, or other surface imperfections.

EGG SHELL- is also as it sounds; it’s a very low sheen similar to that of a chicken’s egg shell. With its slight hint of a shine, is good for walls; it holds up better for cleaning than a flat finish paint. Is it any wonder, that egg shell is the first choice for interior wall finish?

LOW SHEEN- is a smooth and velvety with a bit more gloss, than egg shell. Low Sheen finish, is specially formulated to hold up to cleaning and light scrubbing, which is why it’s particularly suitable for kids' room walls, kitchens, or bathrooms, hall ways or in any area that get a lot of traffic.

SEMI-GLOSS- is nice subtle shine, without being too glitzy and is glosser than low sheen. It cleans easily, which is why semi-gloss the first choice for interior trim, doors kitchen and bathroom cabinets. Spend the extra time and elbow grease, in your pre-paint preparation work. You’ll thank yourself later, because a poorly prepared semi-gloss surface will highlight the surface’s imperfections.

GLOSS- is the most reflective finish; it mimics plastic and enamel. Though not widely used for home interiors, it does remain the preferred finish for the very contemporary of environments. Gloss is most commonly used to add a dramatic or formal look to cabinets, trim and furniture. Gloss finish magnifies all of the surfaces imperfections, so careful preparation and sanding and priming is essential before painting with high gloss paints.

More things to consider

Clean ability & Durability
As a general rule the shinier the paint finish, the better it will stand up to multiple washings. Refer to paint manufacturer’s cleaning specifications.

Kid-Friendly Finishes
When painting children's rooms, consider using an eggs shell or low sheen paint on the walls and semi-gloss for doors and trim. These finishes will withstand repeat cleanings.

Ceiling Finish
The ceiling finish for most rooms are painted with flat finish. An eggshell finish is fine, provided the ceiling surface is flawless. Choose a glossier finish for good light reflection, but only if the ceiling is in flawless condition.

Kitchens & Baths
For any room that’s exposed to water, steam or splashing, such as the kitchen and bathroom, it’s best paint with a semi-gloss paint. If the guest bath or powder room isn’t frequently used, they can be painted with lower-gloss paint, such as satin or eggshell finish.


For a customized color scheme, that you’ll love, contact the VIRTUAL COLOR CONSULTANT. We’ll help you overcome your color and interior design dilemmas. We're the Paint Color & Interior Design Coach. We'll collaborate with you to create the ideal color palette and be a supportive ally throughout your home décor projects. denise@colorturners.com http://www.colorturners.com/