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Designing the interior of your home can be an exciting process, and choosing the right paint and colour palettes can make all the difference. Paint finishes add character, texture, and uniqueness to your room, and can make your walls look different and unique with a simple coat of paint. This guide explores the different types of wall paint finishes that are available for your home. Also, you can choose wallpaper. More about it here!
Paint Finish or Paint Sheen
Paint finish or paint sheen is the amount of light your paint reflects, and the shine it creates. Paints with a finish or a sheen reflect light, whereas paints without a finish or sheen absorb the light and fall flat. When choosing a paint finish, several factors such as durability, weather, moisture, traffic in the room, and cleanability of the surface should be considered. The glossiness of the paint also impacts the environment of the room, bringing out cracks and imperfections, whereas flat/matte walls absorb light.
Types of Wall Paint & Finishes
- Matte Finish
Matte/Flat Paints lend a mute tone to your walls providing minimum to soft sheen. These are non-reflective paints that possess the most amount of pigment, leading to more coverage. In simple terms, more coverage means fewer coats of paint application and more savings. It is also known as the concealer of paints and is ideal if you’re looking to hide imperfections like scratches and nail holes on your wall. However, it’s important to note that these walls are hard to clean, so it’s best not to use them for your kid’s room, or the kitchen. Matte finishes are perfect for interior walls like your bedroom space. - Textured Finish
Textured paints add character to your walls, making them appear distinct and rustic in nature. Most homeowners are seen using textured paints for ceilings or signature walls. Textured paint finishes can add depth, shadow, and elegance to bedroom walls. Since it gives a gritty or layered look, it is great for hiding uneven walls and imperfections. Textures range from brick, ethnic, and metallic to fabric for your walls. Textured finishes are unique and aesthetic, and they offer high durability. However, they are unsuitable for exterior walls. - Satin Finish
Satin wall paint finishes reflect more light than eggshell finishes, but they are not shiny like glossy finishes. Satin finishes provide a pearl’s shine and texture, making them ideal for places that do not receive a lot of natural light like kitchens, bathrooms, and hallways. The only flaw this versatile finish has is that it reveals application imperfections like brush strokes making touch-ups a tricky affair. Satin finishes offer high durability, and they’re easy to clean. They’re perfect for high-traffic areas and moisture-exposed areas like kitchens and bathrooms. - Eggshell Finish
Eggshell finishes are similar to satin finishes, but they reflect even less light. They have a soft, velvety texture and can be used in various areas of your home. Eggshell finishes are great for hiding imperfections, and they’re ideal for your living room walls, single walls, signature walls, and ceilings. Although they are less shiny than satin finishes, they still offer an elegant sheen.
- Semi-gloss Finish
Semi-gloss finishes are glossy and reflective, offering a noticeable shine on walls. They are highly durable and resistant to moisture, making them ideal for areas that require frequent cleaning, such as kitchens, bathrooms, and trim work. Semi-gloss finishes are also a popular choice for doors, windows, and other woodwork as they provide a smooth and easy-to-clean surface. They are less commonly used on large wall surfaces, as the high gloss can highlight imperfections. - High-gloss Finish
Hard, super shiny, light-reflecting – high-gloss finish has the highest sheen and shine. Perfect for areas where natural light is limited, or for signature walls, the high-gloss finish is ideal for cabinetry, doors, kitchen work, accents and areas that are prone to moisture and dirt. Along with its sheen, it is known for high durability and cleanability although it also reveals any imperfections in your surfaces. - Super-matte – Speciality paints
Super-matte paints are even more flat and subdued in comparison to matte paints, with no sheen and light-absorbing qualities. Super-matte paints are rich in texture and are extremely flat and muted paints. Although ideal for statement walls and accents, these surfaces are dust and dirt magnets making them difficult to clean.
Tips for Choosing the Right Paint Finish
Choosing the right paint finish for your walls can greatly impact the overall aesthetic and feel of your space. Here are some tips to help you make the right decision:
- Consider the Room Function: Think about the function of the room and the level of wear and tear it may experience. High-traffic areas such as hallways, kitchens, and bathrooms may require more durable and washable finishes like satin or semi-gloss, while bedrooms and living rooms may benefit from softer finishes like flat or eggshell.
- Consider the Style: The style of your space also plays a role in choosing the right paint finish. Matte and flat finishes are often used in contemporary or minimalist interiors, while higher-sheen finishes like satin, semi-gloss, and high-gloss are more commonly used in traditional or formal spaces.
- Consider the Wall Condition: If your walls have imperfections like cracks, dents, or uneven texture, a flat or matte finish can help minimize their appearance. On the other hand, smoother walls may be suitable for finishes with higher sheen levels.
Sample Test: Before committing to a paint finish, it’s a good idea to test it on a small area of your wall to see how it looks in different lighting conditions and how it complements your room’s design. This can help you ensure that the chosen finish achieves the desired look and feel in your space. - Consult with Professionals: If you’re unsure about which paint finish to choose, it’s always best to consult with professionals, such as interior designers or paint experts. They can provide valuable advice and guidance based on your specific needs and preferences.
