Gain assurance when buying paint by figuring out the proper finish for your undertaking.
A wave of relief washes over me, prompting a happy dance, once I settle on a paint hue for a job. I eagerly head to the store and request a mixed can from the knowledgeable paint associate. However, a single query reveals there is one more choice to make.
“And what level of sheen do you prefer for that?”
Oh, goodness.
Having asked numerous questions in stores, I've compiled some helpful advice. Nevertheless, to prevent any misdirection, I have conducted extra research for you today.
Selecting the Correct Paint Finish
Ascertain the specific 'sheen' you envision for the final appearance.
Paint finishes feature diverse sheens, spanning from flat (zero sheen) to glossy (high sheen).
Each paint manufacturer uses unique sheen terminology for their specific product line and should provide a sample sheen guide. I strongly suggest asking them many questions; they will assist you through the selection.
Key Elements to Weigh When Picking a Paint Sheen:
The primary considerations involve the aesthetic appeal and the practical use of the space you are working on.
- Should the final look possess a shine?
- Is it necessary for the surface to be wipeable?
- Is this an area with heavy foot traffic?
- Is the location in a damp environment, such as a bathroom?
Illustrations of Various Paint Sheens and Their Applications.
FLAT Paint
This is typically employed on ceilings.
It is certainly not a high-traffic zone prone to smudges needing scrubbing!:) This finish is powdery and effectively conceals minor flaws.
{Source –ceiling color Benjamin Moore Gull Wing Gray. Walls are Revere Pewter.}
EGGSHELL Paint
I applied this to the office walls. It offers decent scrub resistance while maintaining a relatively soft, flat look. Like flat paint, it masks imperfections remarkably well; the walls in this room show several blemishes, yet the finish minimizes their visibility.
{Wall Color: Benjamin Moore Gray Cashmere}
PEARL/SEMIGLOSS
These are 2 more sheens that are on the “shiny-er” side. Pearl is less shiny than semi-gloss and can be used in rooms or areas that need to be scrubbed often. If you are painting a bathroom, consult the paint store as to which product they’d recommend for an area that has more moisture. They often have formulas specific for bathrooms and kitchens.
{Source : Walls Benjamin Moore Palladian Blue. Beadboard Mountain Peek White}
SEMIGLOSS
Semigloss is used often on trim. It’s shiny-er and more durable.
GLOSS
This is super-shine! I’ve seen it in pictures used for doors or floors. It can be used to make a definite decor statement, but will highlight any imperfections in the surface.
{Source from this great article on high gloss}
It’s also worth noting that you can use different sheens to achieve a completely different look for your projects.
This striped wall is done by painting stripes in exactly the same color but a higher sheen.
I hope this helps you as you choose a paint sheen for your project. If you’ve missed any of the previous Fresh Start paint posts I’ve done in the past few weeks, you can find them by clicking the links below:
My 1st DIY Experience
Creating Color Flow from Room to Room
Practical Paint Prep Tips
Once again, I’m grateful to Benjamin Moore for the opportunity to transform one of our own rooms (you can see it here).
Although this post has been generously sponsored by Benjamin Moore, the opinions and language are all my own, and in no way do they reflect Benjamin Moore.
