Most of the time, when you are picking paint for your wall, colour gets the majority of the attention. But the finish you choose, satin, gloss or matte, will change the look of your walls and how they perform. The finish has a significant impact on durability, ease of cleaning, light reflection, and the overall ambience of a room, making it feel either large or cozy. In this guide, we will discuss satin vs gloss vs matte in straightforward language so you will know what will work best in your home.
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What’s the Importance of Paint Finish?
A paint finish is more than shine. It is also the way that light reflects off your walls, how durable your walls will be before they show wear, and most importantly, how easy they will be to clean. A flat, matte finish will hide imperfections but will also stain easily. A gloss finish allows for the most incredible shine but reveals every dent. Satin falls between the two, offering a nice, soft sheen while being durable enough to withstand wear.
Think of a finish as what protects and refines your paint colour. You may have the perfect shade picked out for your walls, but the wrong finish will affect how it looks as it ages, dull, harsh, or dirty. This is why it is essential to understand the difference between matte, satin, and gloss finishes before you even open the first can of paint.
What’s the Difference Between Matte, Satin, and Gloss Paint?
The primary distinction between these finishes is the amount of light that they reflect, known as sheen. Sheen is defined on a scale of zero (no sheen) to 100 (high gloss sheen).
Matte/Flat
Matte paint has the lowest sheen. It is also considered a flat paint. It has an attractive, non-reflective finish that absorbs light. The result is a warm, elegant appearance on your walls.
- The Science: Matte paint has a high pigment content and fewer binders. It has a coarser, rougher surface on a microscopic level. When light strikes this surface, it refracts in every direction, giving the appearance of flat surfaces and explaining the lack of shine.
- Pros:
- Hides Flaws: It is excellent at hiding bumps and other small imperfections on the wall.
- Rich Color: The lack of reflection makes the color appear deeper and more true.
- Easy to Touch Up: Small scuffs or marks can often be touched up without a full repaint.
- Cons:
- Less Durable: Matte paint is not very resistant to scuffs and scratches.
- Hard to Clean: Its porous surface can absorb stains. Aggressive scrubbing can remove the paint.
- Best Uses: Low-traffic areas like bedrooms, dining rooms, and ceilings.
Satin and Eggshell Finish
Satin has become a favourite for homeowners due to the soft, pearl-like sheen that it gives off. It’s perfect for those looking for something between matte and gloss. Eggshell is actually a type of satin paint, because it has minimal sheen, similar to the surface of an egg.
- The Science: Satin finishes have more binders and less pigment than matte paint, resulting in a smoother surface. Satin finishes reflect some light, but they still give a soft glow.
- Pros:
- Versatile: It works in almost any room. It offers a balance of durability and style.
- Easy to Clean: The slightly smoother surface allows for easier cleaning. It can be wiped down with a damp cloth.
- Durable: It holds up well to daily wear and tear. It is a good choice for high-traffic areas.
- Cons:
- Shows Some Flaws: The slight sheen can highlight surface imperfections.
- Touch-ups Stand Out: Touch-up spots can be noticeable. This is because the sheen may not match the rest of the wall perfectly.
- Best Uses: High-traffic areas like kitchens, bathrooms, kids’ rooms, and hallways.
Semigloss and Gloss Finish
Gloss paint has the most sheen. It has a slick, mirror-like finish that reflects a lot of light. Semigloss is a step down from gloss paint, and it has high durability and a somewhat less reflective surface.
- The science: Gloss paint has a much higher binder-to-pigment ratio than flat paints, which creates a very smooth and hard surface. When light hits this surface, it gets reflected in one direction. This is what makes the bright, shiny effect.
- Pros:
- Maximum Durability: It is very tough and resists scuffs and stains.
- Moisture Resistant: Its hard, non-porous surface makes it great for resisting moisture and humidity.
- Easy to Clean: You can scrub this finish without worry. It is perfect for surfaces that need frequent cleaning.
- Cons:
- Highlights Flaws: Every bump, dent, or uneven area on the wall will be very noticeable.
- Can Be Overpowering: The high shine can be too much for an entire room.
- Best Uses: Doors, trim, moldings, baseboards, and cabinetry. It is also an excellent choice for kitchens and bathrooms.
Tips for Selecting Paint Finishes
Choosing the right finish depends on the room’s function and the look you want. Here are some professional tips to help you decide.
Room-by-Room Guide
- Kitchen: The kitchen sees a lot of traffic and spills. It needs a durable and washable surface. A semi-gloss or satin finish is an excellent choice.
- Bathrooms: These rooms are humid and need a finish that resists moisture. Semi-gloss or gloss paint will prevent water damage and mildew growth.
- Bedrooms and Living Rooms: These are low-traffic areas where comfort and aesthetics matter. A matte or eggshell finish creates a soft, cozy atmosphere.
- Hallways and Foyers: These are high-traffic areas that require a durable finish. Satin or semi-gloss holds up well against scuffs and marks.
- Ceilings: A flat or matte finish is a top choice for ceilings. It helps hide imperfections and avoids distracting light reflections.
- Trim and Doors: These areas get a lot of contact. A semi-gloss or gloss finish provides durability and a clean, polished look. It makes doors and trim pop.
How Colors Change with Finish
The finish you choose can change how a paint color looks.
- Matte: This finish makes colors look richer and more true. It is great for deep, vibrant hues and neutrals.
- Satin: It adds a slight luster that can make colors feel more alive. It works well with most color palettes, from soft grays to bold jewel tones.
- Gloss: This finish intensifies a color. Bold, clean colors like reds and blacks look great in a gloss finish. The high shine adds drama to the color.
Maintenance and Cleaning
- Matte: Avoid scrubbing this finish. Use a soft, damp cloth and a gentle touch. For tough marks, you may need a light touch-up.
- Satin: You can wipe this finish with a sponge and a mild soap. It is resistant to many everyday stains.
- Gloss: This finish is very easy to clean. You can use a stronger cleaning solution to wipe it down without harming the surface.
What Happens if I Choose the Wrong Finish?
If you mistakenly use a satin finish as opposed to a gloss finish or a matte finish incorrectly, you will be at a disadvantage. If you use a matte paint in a kitchen, it will wear out and accumulate scuff marks or stains that may be difficult to remove immediately. Apply a high-gloss finish to an old, outdated wall, and you will see every imperfection in that wall. This is all the more reason to plan.
San Diego Home Remodeling Can Help You Select the Correct Paint Finish
Determining the right finish can seem like a lot of options, particularly with every room requiring something different. Not to worry! San Diego Home Remodeling will have an expert painter guide you through every detail, from the selection of finish to surface prep perfection.
We offer comprehensive painting services in San Diego, as well as complete remodeling services for kitchens, bathrooms, and other areas. Whether you need a fresh coat of matte laid down in your bedroom, satin enhancement in your living room, or gloss paint for durability in your kitchen, we provide a professional service that looks great and is built to last.
FAQs
Which is better, matte or satin?
Neither finish is better overall. The best choice depends on the specific project. A matte finish is better if you want to hide wall imperfections. It also creates a soft, rich look. A satin finish is better if you need a durable, easy-to-clean surface. Satin is a great choice for areas that get a lot of traffic.
Is glossy or satin better?
It depends on the surface and the function. Glossy paint is much more durable and easier to clean. It is the best choice for surfaces that get a lot of use, like trim, doors, and cabinets. Satin paint is better for walls. It is durable but has a less reflective look. Satin is perfect for hallways and family rooms. Glossy paint would show too many flaws on a large wall.
What is the difference between matte, satin, and gloss varnish?
Varnish is a clear protective layer applied over a surface, like wood. The terms matte, satin, and gloss describe the sheen of the varnish, just like with paint. A matte varnish has no shine. A satin varnish has a soft glow. The gloss varnish is very shiny. The choice depends on the final look you want to achieve for your surface.
Which is better, matte or gloss paint?
This depends entirely on the purpose. Gloss paint is better for durability and easy cleaning. It is ideal for surfaces like doors and trim. Matte paint is better for hiding imperfections on walls. It is a preferred choice for areas where you want a smooth, non-reflective look. Matte is great for bedrooms and living rooms.
Can I paint matte over satin?
Yes, you can paint matte over satin. However, proper preparation is key. The surface must be clean, dry, and dull before you start. The sheen of the satin paint can prevent the new coat from sticking well. To ensure a good bond, you should lightly sand the satin surface. Then, apply a quality primer. This creates a good base for the matte paint. It also ensures the final coat will be smooth and long-lasting.
