A lot goes into painting a room—colors, prep work, and materials. However, one decision often gets overlooked and ends up making a big difference: how to choose the right paint finish. It’s not just about how it looks; it’s about durability, cleanability, and how light plays on your walls.
What is Paint Sheen?
First things first: what is paint sheen? Paint sheen refers to how shiny or matte your painted surface will appear once dry. It’s a measure of how much light the paint reflects.
A high-sheen paint (like gloss or semi-gloss) reflects more light, making surfaces look brighter and smoother, but it is also more prone to highlighting imperfections. A low-sheen finish (like matte or eggshell) absorbs more light, giving a softer, more velvety appearance.
Understanding sheen is essential because it influences how paint will perform in different rooms, especially in high-traffic areas or places exposed to moisture like kitchens and bathrooms.
Types of Paint
Before you get to sheen, you need to know the types of paint available. Most home projects use either oil-based or water-based paints.
- Water-based (latex) paint is more commonly used in homes. It dries quickly, has less odor, and is easy to clean with soap and water. It’s ideal for walls, ceilings, and trim.
- Oil-based paint offers a smoother finish and is more durable in high-wear areas, but it takes longer to dry and requires mineral spirits for cleanup. It’s often used for cabinetry or high-use trim work.
Some specialized types—like mildew-resistant paint for bathrooms or magnetic chalkboard paint for kids’ rooms—may also be worth considering. Working with a professional home painting Denver team can help you match the product to the purpose.
Types of Paint Sheens
Now let’s break down the types of paint sheens and when to use them:
- Flat/Matte: No shine, excellent for hiding wall imperfections. Best for low-traffic areas like adult bedrooms or ceilings.
- Eggshell: Slight sheen, more washable than flat. Works well in living rooms, hallways, and dining areas.
- Satin: Soft sheen and easy to clean. Ideal for family rooms, kitchens, and children’s bedrooms.
- Semi-gloss: Noticeably shiny and very durable. Perfect for trim, bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry rooms.
- Gloss/High-gloss: Ultra-reflective and durable. Use sparingly—for doors, cabinetry, or accent details.
Each sheen level has its pros and cons. The trick is choosing a paint sheen that matches how the space will be used and how you want it to look.
How to Choose a Paint Sheen for Each Room
So, how to choose the right paint finish for your space? Start with three key questions:
- What’s the room’s function? If it’s a high-traffic or moisture-prone area, go for a higher sheen that resists scrubbing and moisture.
- What’s the surface like? Rough or damaged walls? Stick to matte or eggshell to hide flaws. Smooth and well-prepped? Semi-gloss or gloss will shine.
- What’s your style? Some finishes feel cozier (matte), while others look sleek and modern (gloss).
Here’s a quick cheat sheet:
- Living room & dining room: Eggshell or satin for a balanced look.
- Kitchen: Satin or semi-gloss to handle steam and splashes.
- Bathroom: Semi-gloss or satin with moisture-resistant properties—ask your bathroom remodeling company about paint choices that resist mildew.
- Bedroom: Flat or eggshell for a soft, restful vibe.
- Trim, doors & cabinets: Semi-gloss or gloss for contrast and durability.
Our interior painting team at Ramiguz Remodeling brings decades of experience helping clients get it right. From color consultation to trim and detail work, we’re here to ensure your finish performs well and looks fantastic.
When choosing the right paint finish, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but there is a right answer for your room, style, and lifestyle. And we’re here to help you find it.
Contact Ramiguz Remodeling today for an expert home painter in Denver. Since 2002, we’ve been transforming homes with care, craftsmanship, and attention to detail. Whether it’s a full remodel or a fresh coat of paint, our bathroom remodelling company delivers results that reflect your vision and respect your budget. Let’s get started.