How You Should Pick the Perfect Paint Finish
Painting has the power to add value to your property. Both your internal and external surfaces receive added protection from it, plus it makes your place look more appealing. But choosing the wrong type of paint can do exactly the opposite.
Before you paint your new property, it’s important that you know how to get the perfect finish. Below we provide you with a detailed explanation of different types of paint finishes and some useful recommendations.
1. Durable High Gloss
If you are looking for durability, then pick Durable High Gloss. These are the easiest finishes to clean and maintain because of their hard, super glossy, light reflecting character. However, this type of finishing is not ideal for your interior walls, as all the painting fractures and surface imperfections will be readily visible.
Properties in a Nutshell
I. High durability
II. Can be cleaned easily
III. Can be maintained easily
IV. Gloss 70%
V. High level of light reflection
VI. Surface imperfections will be visible
VII. Extensive preparation is needed
VIII. Requires more coatings
IX. Resistant to grease
X. Resistant to moisture
General Recommendation of Area
I. Kitchen
II. Stairway
III. Doors
IV. Windows
V. Room trim
2. Semi-gloss
Semi-gloss is a centre point between high gloss and satin finishing. These paints are less glossy and more durable but are more reflective than satin. This is a good choice if you want to brighten up your room. Semi-Gloss finishing is most suitable for areas with high humidity and moisture.
Properties in a Nutshell
I. High durability
II. Can be cleaned easily
III. Can be maintained easily
IV. Gloss 35 to 70%
V. Reflection levels higher than Satin
VI. Surface imperfections will be visible
VII. Resistant to humidity and moisture
General Recommendation of Area
I. Kitchen
II. Stairway
III. Playroom
IV. Bathroom
V. Hallways
VI. Cabinets
VII. Furniture
VIII. Doors
IX. Windows
X. Room Trim
3. Satin
Satin paint finishing can be an excellent choice for busy rooms or even outdoor areas. The ability to resist mildew, water and sunlight effectively make it suitable for both interior and exterior surfaces. Satin finished surfaces can be easily cleaned by wiping or scrubbing.
Properties in a Nutshell
I. High durability
II. Gloss 25 to 35%
III. Can be cleaned easily
IV. Can be maintained easily
V. Resistant to mildew
VI. Resistant to water
VII. Sunlight does not fade colour
VIII. Suitable for both interior and exterior
IX. Suitable for busy areas
X. Must be cleaned regularly
General Recommendation of Area
I. Family Room
II. Dining Room
III. Bedroom
IV. Kitchen
V. Stairway
VI. Playroom
VII. Bathroom
VIII. Hallways
IX. Cabinets
X. Doors
XI. Windows
XII. Room Trim
4. Eggshell
Though not as durable as the paints mentioned above, eggshell is good at hiding imperfections due to its low gloss. The name comes from the fact that the texture of this painting is similar to the texture of an egg. Eggshell finishes are easier to clean than flat paint finishes because they are more resistant to stains.
Properties in a Nutshell
I. Medium durability
II. Easier to clean than flat paint finish
III. Can be maintained easily
IV. Gloss 10 to 15%
V. Level of light reflection is low
VI. Surface imperfections are not visible
VII. More resistant to stains than flat paint finishes
General Recommendation of Area
I. Dining Room
II. Family Room
III. Bedroom
IV. Home Office
V. Stairway
VI. Playroom
VII. Hallways
VIII. Cabinets
IX. Windows
X. Room Trim
5. Flat or Matte
If your previous paint job was not a good one, and you want to hide surface imperfections, then flat or matte paint finish is your best choice. These paints do not reflect light, so people won’t notice surface flaws, and your paint finish will be smooth and uniform. However, removing this paint is a hard job. Simple scrubbing is not enough to clean it. Matte paint finishes are best for less busy areas as clean-up can be a handful.
Properties in a Nutshell
I. Medium to low durability
II. Cannot be cleaned easily
III. Suitable for less busy spaces
IV. Gloss 0 to 10%
V. No reflection of light
VI. Good at hiding surface imperfections
VII. No much preparation needed
VIII. Requires fewer coatings
General Recommendation of Area
I. Bedroom
II. Family Room
III. Dining Room
IV. Home Office
V. Ceiling
If you are in Sydney, call PREMIER PAINTING COMPANY for expert advice on which paint finish would best suit your project!
