Choosing a colour is only half the decision. The finish, or sheen, decides how much light the paint reflects, how easy it is to wipe clean and how much it shows the bumps in a wall. The same colour can look noticeably darker in matt and brighter in gloss, so it is worth deciding on the finish before you settle on the shade.
Matt and flat
Matt paint reflects very little light, so it gives a soft, chalky look and hides small dents and patches well. It is a good choice for ceilings, bedrooms and living rooms. Traditional matt paints mark more easily, but many modern ranges include a more durable matt that can be wiped gently.
Eggshell
Eggshell has a low sheen, a little like the surface of an egg. It is easier to clean than matt and still looks calm, which makes it popular for hallways, stairs, children’s rooms and family rooms.
Satin
Satin has a soft glow and a smooth, wipeable surface. It suits kitchens and bathrooms, and it is often used on woodwork, doors and cabinets when you want something more modern than full gloss.
Gloss and semi-gloss
Gloss is the hardest-wearing finish and the easiest to clean. It is the traditional choice for skirting boards, door frames, window frames and front doors. Because it reflects so much light, it also shows every flaw underneath, so the preparation has to be thorough.
A quick guide
- Ceilings: matt.
- Living rooms and bedrooms: matt or a durable matt.
- Hallways and stairs: eggshell or durable matt.
- Kitchens and bathrooms: satin, or a paint made for kitchens and bathrooms.
- Woodwork and doors: satin or gloss.
Check the label or the manufacturer’s guidance for each product, since names and sheen levels vary between brands. If you are unsure, paint a test patch of each finish and look at it in daylight and in the evening.