When determining how to choose the right paint for an impending project, an important consideration is the degree of glossiness or 'sheen' that the new paint will have.

Desired gloss level is a personal preference. However, the amount of traffic that occurs within the area should be a determining factor when deciding what sheen to use for the project. In general, the higher the sheen, the easier the surface is to keep clean.

Here are some general guidelines for selection of different sheen levels:

		Flat Paints:
	•	have very little sheen – tend to diffuse light, rather than reflecting it
	•	may be difficult to remove dirt and stains, therefore best considered in areas that do not have a great deal of traffic
	•	generally suitable for walls and ceilings in master bedrooms, guest bedrooms, living rooms and closets

		Eggshell Paints and Enamels:
	•	have a low degree of gloss; have some sheen when viewed at a low, glancing angle; the name refers to the “sheen of an eggshell,” not to its color
	•	resist dirt and stains better than flat paints, so are easer to keep clean; good for moderate traffic areas; will not touch up as readily as flat paints do
	•	use for walls in an older child’s or teenager's bedroom, home offices, family rooms, dining rooms, media rooms and hallways

		Satin Paints and Enamels:
	•	very noticeable sheen, particularly when viewed at a low angle; unlike flat paints, satin finishes can accentuate unevenness in wall surfaces, say from non-uniform drywall joints
	•	excellent resistance to dirt and stains; used on walls, satin paints can brighten hallways and rooms because of their light reflectivity
	•	use for walls playrooms, hallways, kitchens, kids’ room, bathrooms; in smaller rooms, can be used for the ceiling as well; also suitable for windows, doors and trim

		Semigloss Paints:
	•	provide a fairly glossy appearance; excellent resistance to dirt and stains
	•	easy to keep clean, therefore consider for areas that receive regular traffic and require some washing of, for example, finger prints and hand smudges
	•	excellent for interior doors and trim, windows
	•	while popular for walls in parts of Europe, not generally used this way in North America except for kitchen and bath areas

		Gloss or High Gloss Paints and Enamels:
	•	exhibit a highly shiny appearance, viewed at any angle
	•	withstands frequent washing, therefore suitable for high traffic areas traffic and require consistent washing and scrubbing
	•	interior doors and trim, windows, toys, chairs, tables
	•	may be suitable for some wall areas, such as kitchens, baths, children's playrooms, game rooms, laundry rooms, mud rooms, interior garages and work spaces

These paints are available in interior and exterior versions – choose only interior products for indoor projects. Some gloss products are labeled for both interior and exterior use.

For the painting enthusiast who remains unsure as to which sheen level is visually preferable, consider reviewing the amount of cleaning and use the space will receive on an everyday basis. These two requirements will assist with the final sheen choice for a designated area of the home's interior. See also our sheen selector for additional suggestions by room.

Read more about this month's topic:
Painting 101: Selecting the Right Sheen for your Paint Project