Picking a color for your walls is fun—but choosing the right paint finish is just as important. The finish you choose affects how your walls look, how long the paint lasts, and how easy it is to clean. It can even change the mood of a room.
At Rondin & Scott Paint & Drywall Solutions, we know that the perfect finish makes all the difference. So, if you’ve ever wondered what “eggshell” really means or whether flat paint is a smart choice for your living room, we’ve got you covered.
Let’s break down the different paint finishes and show you exactly which one works best in each room of your home.
Understanding Paint Finishes
Paint finish (also known as “sheen”) refers to how much light the paint reflects. The more reflective it is, the shinier it appears—and the easier it is to clean.
Here are the most common finishes, from least shiny to most:
Flat/Matte
Eggshell
Satin
Semi-Gloss
Gloss/High-Gloss
Each has its own pros and cons, and some are better suited for specific spaces.
Flat or Matte Finish
Best for: Ceilings, adult bedrooms, low-traffic areas
Not ideal for: Kitchens, bathrooms, or kid/pet-friendly spaces
Pros:
Hides wall imperfections beautifully
Offers a soft, smooth look
Non-reflective—great for creating a cozy feel
Cons:
Not very washable
Can scuff or stain easily
Use it when: You want a soft, elegant finish and don’t need heavy-duty cleaning.
Eggshell Finish
Best for: Living rooms, dining rooms, home offices
Not ideal for: High-moisture areas like bathrooms
Pros:
Slight sheen adds depth without being shiny
More durable than flat finishes
Easier to clean and wipe down
Cons:
Still not ideal for heavy scrubbing
Use it when: You want a hint of glow and need a bit more durability.
Satin Finish
Best for: Hallways, children’s rooms, family rooms, kitchens
Not ideal for: Ceilings (shows flaws easily)
Pros:
Smooth finish with a soft shine
Very durable and easy to clean
Resists mildew and moisture
Cons:
Imperfections are slightly more visible
Needs careful application to avoid lap marks
Use it when: You want a balance between beauty and toughness—especially in high-traffic spaces.
Semi-Gloss Finish
Best for: Bathrooms, kitchens, trim, baseboards, and doors
Not ideal for: Full walls in large rooms (can be too shiny)
Pros:
Very durable and moisture-resistant
Excellent for areas that get a lot of cleaning
Great for highlighting trim or woodwork
Cons:
Shows every bump and flaw on the surface
Has a noticeably shiny finish
Use it when: You want extra protection and shine, especially in moisture-prone or high-use areas.
Gloss or High-Gloss Finish
Best for: Cabinets, furniture, doors, and accents
Not ideal for: Most walls (too shiny)
Pros:
Ultra-durable and easy to scrub
Highly reflective and sleek
Offers a bold, polished look
Cons:
Every imperfection is visible
Can feel a little too “commercial” on large surfaces
Use it when: You want a statement-making, high-contrast look with serious durability.
Room-by-Room Finish Guide
Here’s a quick cheat sheet to help you pick the right finish for each space in your home:
Living Room
Recommended: Eggshell or Satin
These finishes add elegance and softness while being durable enough for occasional cleaning.
Kitchen
Recommended: Satin or Semi-Gloss
You’ll want something that’s easy to clean, especially near the stove and sink.
Bathroom
Recommended: Semi-Gloss
Moisture is a big factor here. Semi-gloss resists mold and is easy to wipe down.
Bedroom
Recommended: Flat or Eggshell
Adults may prefer flat for a calm vibe, while eggshell works better in kids’ rooms for added durability.
Hallways & Entryways
Recommended: Satin
These are high-traffic areas, so go with a finish that can handle frequent cleaning and scuff marks.
Ceilings
Recommended: Flat
Flat paint hides ceiling imperfections and gives a clean, uniform appearance.
Trim, Baseboards & Doors
Recommended: Semi-Gloss or Gloss
These areas take a lot of wear and tear. A shiny finish makes them easier to clean and visually pop.
Other Tips to Keep in Mind
Lighting matters. Glossy finishes reflect light and can make small rooms feel brighter—but they also highlight imperfections.
Color + finish = final effect. The same color in a flat vs. gloss finish can look dramatically different.
Consistency is key. While you can mix finishes in one room (e.g., flat walls and glossy trim), it’s important to keep the balance visually pleasing.
Why the Right Finish Matters
Choosing the right paint finish isn’t just about looks—it’s about longevity, maintenance, and how you live in your space. The right finish will:
Help your walls withstand daily life
Enhance your color choices
Make cleaning easier
Add to the room’s mood and design
That’s why at Rondin & Scott, we don’t just paint—we guide you through every choice so your walls look great and perform well for years to come.
Need Expert Help? Let’s Talk.
Whether you’re painting a new home, updating one room, or refreshing trim and drywall, we’re here to help make the process smooth and stress-free.
👉 Contact Rondin & Scott Paint & Drywall Solutions today for a free color and finish consultation.
Let’s bring your vision to life—with the perfect paint and the perfect finish.