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A fresh coat of paint can completely transform a room. Before you grab a brush, there’s one important decision to make: your paint finish. The finish determines not only how your walls will look but also how durable and easy to clean they’ll be. Whether you’re aiming for a soft, velvety appearance or a bright, reflective surface, understanding the different finishes will help you achieve the perfect result.
Here’s your quick guide to paint finishes, straight from the pros at Godwin Hardware and Design Center.
Matte (Flat)
Matte finishes are known for their smooth, non-reflective surface that hides imperfections beautifully. They create a soft, classic look that’s perfect for low-traffic areas like bedrooms, dining rooms, and ceilings.
Pros: Excellent coverage, hides wall flaws, rich color depth.
Cons: Harder to clean and may show scuffs or marks in high-traffic areas.
Eggshell
Eggshell sits right between matte and satin. It has a subtle sheen that gives walls a gentle glow without being shiny. This finish is a popular choice for living rooms and hallways where you want a little durability without losing that soft look.
Pros: Easy to clean, resists mild scuffs, warm finish.
Cons: Slightly less forgiving of surface imperfections than matte.
Satin
Satin finishes have a noticeable sheen that reflects light softly, making rooms feel bright and inviting. They’re also very durable, so they’re great for busy spaces like kitchens, bathrooms, and kids’ rooms.
Pros: Washable and durable, holds up well in moisture-prone areas.
Cons: May highlight brushstrokes or wall imperfections.
Semi-Gloss
Semi-gloss finishes are shiny, sleek, and easy to wipe clean, which makes them ideal for trim, doors, and cabinets. The reflective quality adds a crisp, polished look and stands up well to frequent cleaning.
Pros: Extremely durable and moisture-resistant, great for accents.
Cons: Can accentuate wall flaws and uneven textures.
High-Gloss
If you’re looking for maximum shine and drama, high gloss is the way to go. It’s commonly used for furniture, doors, and statement pieces rather than full walls.
Pros: Ultra-durable, easy to clean, makes a bold design statement.
Cons: Every imperfection will show—requires careful prep work.
Pro Tip: Don’t Forget the Room’s Lighting
Lighting can completely change how a finish looks. Glossy paints reflect light, making colors appear brighter, while matte finishes absorb light for a softer tone. Always test a paint sample in your space before committing to a full wall.
Your Paint Destination: Godwin Hardware and Design Center
Whether you’re giving your walls a subtle refresh or a bold new look, Godwin has you covered. Stop by our hardware store for premium paints, brushes, rollers, and prep supplies or visit our Design Center to work with our color experts who can help you select the perfect palette and finish for your home.
Transform your space one brushstroke at a time with help from Godwin!