Choosing the Right Paint Finish for Your Project
A Simple Guide from Aaron
How to Know Which Paint Finish to Use
Most people think the color is what makes or breaks a paint job. Color matters, but the finish matters just as much. The finish changes how light hits your walls, how easy they are to clean, and how long the paint will last.
Some finishes hide small marks or wall bumps. Others are strong and easy to wipe down. Picking the right one helps your paint look good for years instead of months.
Here’s a simple breakdown of the main finishes I use and what they work best for.
Flat or Matte Finish
Look: Smooth and soft, with no shine at all.
Best for: Ceilings, adult bedrooms, and other low-traffic areas.
Why: Flat paint covers up small dents, nail holes, or texture differences really well. It gives walls a quiet, even look.
The downside is that it’s not very washable — if you scrub too hard, you might leave a mark. That’s why I usually use it in rooms that don’t get much touching or bumping.
My tip: Matte paint gives a calm, cozy look. It’s perfect if you want walls that don’t reflect light or draw attention.
Eggshell Finish
Look: Mostly flat, with a soft glow when light hits it — like the surface of an egg.
Best for: Living rooms, hallways, and bedrooms.
Why: It’s easy to clean, but still hides small imperfections better than shiny paints. Eggshell is one of the most balanced choices for most homes.
You can gently wipe it with a damp cloth if there’s a smudge or fingerprint. It’s also a forgiving finish for older homes where walls might not be perfectly smooth.
My tip: Eggshell is a great “default” finish if you’re not sure what to choose. It looks good almost anywhere.
Satin Finish
Look: Smooth with a light sheen — you’ll notice a little reflection when sunlight hits it.
Best for: Kitchens, kids’ rooms, family rooms, and trim.
Why: It’s more durable and moisture-resistant than eggshell, and it cleans up well with just soap and water.
Satin is strong but not too glossy. It handles fingerprints, splashes, and regular cleaning without losing color.
My tip: I often recommend satin for busy households. It’s a good mix of good looks and strength.
Semi-Gloss Finish
Look: Shiny and crisp. It reflects more light, giving trim and doors a clean, finished feel.
Best for: Trim, doors, cabinets, kitchens, and bathrooms.
Why: Semi-gloss holds up well to humidity and scrubbing. It’s a workhorse paint for areas that see a lot of use or need frequent cleaning.
It also makes architectural details pop — things like crown molding or wainscoting look sharp in semi-gloss.
My tip: Semi-gloss is my go-to for trim and bathrooms. It looks fresh and is very easy to wipe down.
High-Gloss Finish
Look: Very shiny — almost mirror-like.
Best for: Furniture, built-ins, and accent pieces.
Why: It’s tough and bold, but because it’s so reflective, it shows every bump or brush mark underneath.
It’s best used on very smooth surfaces that have been prepped carefully. When done right, it gives a modern, polished look.
My tip: I use high-gloss sparingly — just for special projects where we want something to really stand out.
Other Paints You Might Hear About
Sometimes a project calls for something different:
Chalk paint: Great for furniture or vintage-style finishes. It gives a soft, chalky texture.
Enamel paint: Extra durable and smooth. Often used for cabinets or doors.
Primer: The first coat that helps paint stick better and cover evenly. I’ll always let you know when a primer coat is needed.
How to Choose the Right One
If you’re not sure which to pick, think about how the space is used:
A quiet bedroom might do best with matte or eggshell.
A kitchen or bathroom needs something tougher, like satin or semi-gloss.
Trim and doors almost always look better in semi-gloss so they’re easier to clean.
You don’t have to decide on your own. When I come to look at your space, I can help you match the right finish to your walls and your lifestyle. The goal is to make it look great and stay that way for a long time.
Last thoughts
The right paint finish makes all the difference. It’s not about using fancy products — it’s about picking what fits your home and how you live in it.
When I paint a room, I want it to feel comfortable, last a long time, and make you smile when you walk in. If you’re ready to start a new project, I’d be glad to help you choose the right paint and finish for your space.
— Aaron