Understanding Paint Finishes: Flat, Satin, Semi-Gloss, and Gloss
When it comes to painting your home, there’s more to consider than just the colour palette. The type of paint finish you choose can dramatically impact both the look and functionality of your walls. The most common interior paint sheens are flat, satin, semi-gloss, and gloss—each with unique characteristics, levels of durability, and best-use scenarios.
Below, we break down the four main paint finishes and explain where and why a professional painter might choose each one:
1. Flat (Matte) Paint
Finish: Smooth and velvety with no shine
Best For: Ceilings, bedrooms, dining rooms, and low-traffic areas
Why Use It:
Flat paint offers a rich, non-reflective finish that hides surface imperfections better than any other sheen. It’s ideal for older homes or walls with visible flaws, such as cracks, nail holes, or uneven textures. Because it doesn’t reflect light, it softens spaces and creates a calm, sophisticated look.
Things to Consider:
Flat paint is the least durable option. It doesn’t hold up well to scrubbing or moisture, so it’s not suitable for kitchens, bathrooms, or children’s rooms.
2. Satin Paint
Finish: Soft sheen, similar to an eggshell
Best For: Living rooms, hallways, kids’ bedrooms, and family rooms
Why Use It:
Satin is a versatile, middle-ground finish. It’s more durable than flat paint, has a gentle glow, and is easy to clean—making it perfect for high-traffic areas that still require a soft, elegant appearance. It also helps mask small imperfections better than glossier paints.
Things to Consider:
Satin can show brush strokes and roller marks if not applied carefully. Wall imperfections may also become slightly more noticeable compared to flat finishes.
3. Semi-Gloss Paint
Finish: Noticeably shiny, smooth, and reflective
Best For: Kitchens, bathrooms, trims, doors, and cabinetry
Why Use It:
Semi-gloss paint is moisture-resistant, durable, and easy to clean. It’s perfect for humid environments like kitchens and bathrooms or areas that need frequent wiping. It gives a crisp, polished finish that enhances architectural details and woodwork.
Things to Consider:
Its reflective nature can highlight wall imperfections, so prep work is essential for the best results.
4. Gloss (High-Gloss) Paint
Finish: Ultra-shiny and mirror-like
Best For: Accent furniture, trim, cabinetry, and high-touch doors
Why Use It:
Gloss paint is the most durable and easiest to clean. It creates a dramatic, high-end finish that adds sophistication and is perfect for surfaces that endure a lot of handling.
Things to Consider:
Because of its high reflectivity, every imperfection and brushstroke is visible, so the surface must be meticulously prepped. Gloss is rarely used on walls as the shine can feel overwhelming.
Choosing the Right Finish for Your Home
When working with a professional painting team like Duffield Group, remember: your finish choice matters just as much as your colour selection.
Flat hides imperfections but lacks durability
Satin offers a gentle sheen with better washability
Semi-gloss blends durability with vibrancy
Gloss delivers maximum shine and toughness for high-touch areas
A qualified painter will guide you on the right finish for each room and surface to ensure a long-lasting and visually stunning result. With the right guidance and preparation, your home can be transformed into a true work of art.
The team at Duffield Group are here for you every step of the way. Get in touch today to discuss your painting project further.
