Paint Sheen Guide: Matte, Eggshell, Satin & Semi-Gloss
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This paint sheen guide covers where each finish works best: flat/matte hides wall flaws but is hard to clean; eggshell and satin balance durability and looks for most rooms; semi-gloss and gloss go on trim, doors, and cabinets where you want a wipeable, hard finish.
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Flat and matte
Flat and matte finishes hide surface imperfections best, which makes them popular for ceilings and low-traffic walls.
The trade-off is cleanability they can mark and are tougher to wipe, so they're less ideal for kids' rooms, halls, and kitchens.
Eggshell and satin
Eggshell and satin are the workhorses for most interior walls: a soft, low-luster look that still wipes down.
Satin holds up a bit better in moisture and traffic, which is why it's common in bathrooms, hallways, and on exteriors.
Semi-gloss and gloss
Semi-gloss and gloss reflect more light and resist moisture and scrubbing, so they belong on trim, doors, cabinets, and millwork.
The shine highlights flaws, which is why prep matters most here.
Keep reading
Browse more painting tips and hiring guides in Ranger's resources, see the cost guides for real price ranges, or explore the services and service areas to find what fits your home.
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