Choosing Paint Sheen

There is no industry standard for sheens, so each manufacturer has its own definitions and special products.

Choosing Paint Sheen

Choosing a paint sheen, also known as its shine or luster, is a matter of taste governed by the type of surface it's applied to and its condition, the existing paint, if any, and the wear the surface will get.

No Industry Standard

There is no industry standard for sheens, so each manufacturer has its own definitions and special products. This is confusing because one company's satin finish can be another's semi-gloss. The usual sheens in order from least to most shiny are: flat, matte, eggshell, pearl, satin, semi-gloss, gloss and high gloss.

High Sheen vs. Low Sheen

Generally, the higher the sheen the greater a paint's durability. The downside is that higher sheens show every little flaw, and so are best for surfaces in very good condition. Choose a lower sheen or flat paint for bad surfaces.

Latex paints used to be available only in the lower sheens; however, this has changed. The latest latex paints offer higher sheens and greater durability than ever before, now rivaling alkyd paints for certain applications.

For the highest gloss, or for certain areas such as bookshelves and cabinets that require extra durability, some form of alkyd, either oil or water borne, is usually the best choice. Just remember that some of the white shades of oil alkyds are subject to yellowing.

Except in kitchens and baths, most people choose a latex flat paint for ceilings, a flat or eggshell for walls, and a higher gloss paint in latex or alkyd for doors and trim. Not only does the shinier paint provide greater protection for surfaces that are subject to more wear, it calls attention to architectural details and decoration.

Kitchens and Baths

Because of the constant presence of moisture and the wear and tear of daily life, kitchens and baths take special care. To choose the best sheen for these rooms, ask yourself the following questions:

1.    What is the existing type of paint (latex or oil), if any, and its sheen?
2.    Is the surface in good condition?
3.    How much wear must it withstand?
4.    Should it be scrubbable?
5.    Are there attractive architectural details to highlight?
6.    Do you prefer a latex or alkyd paint?

Have the answers to these questions ready when you go to the paint store so the experts can guide you to the best choice in your situation, and of course, we can help too.