Choose the wrong paint finish, and you might end up with scuffed walls, too much shine, or a look that just doesn't feel right — even if the color is perfect.
At Roe Painting, we've helped thousands of homeowners and business managers navigate this exact choice during repaints, remodels, and redesigns, guiding them toward the finishes that match their lifestyle, lighting, and design goals.
In this guide, we'll walk you through what each paint sheen really means, where it performs best, and how to confidently choose the right finish for every room in your home.
Paint sheen refers to how shiny or reflective the finish looks once it's dry, and it plays a major role in how your walls look and perform over time.
The higher the sheen, the more light it reflects. That means a high-gloss finish will look shiny and sleek, while a flat or matte finish will appear soft and smooth with no shine at all.
But sheen isn't just about appearance. It affects how easy a surface is to clean, how it holds up in different environments, and even how much surface imperfections show through.
At Roe Painting, we can guide you through these subtle but important differences so that every finish we apply matches both the look and function you're looking for, whether that's a kitchen that needs durability or a bedroom that feels soft and cozy.
There are five main types of paint finishes. Each with its own look, feel, and ideal use.
Understanding the difference between them helps you avoid issues like walls that scuff too easily, finishes that feel too shiny, or surfaces that are harder to clean than expected.
Each of these finishes serves a different purpose, and choosing the right one means your space won't just look good, it'll function well too.
Finish |
Sheen Level |
Best For |
Washability |
Hides Imperfections |
| Flat/Matte | None | Ceilings, low-traffic walls | Low | Excellent |
| Eggshell | Low | Living rooms, dining rooms, hallways | Moderate | Good |
| Satin | Medium | Kitchens, bathrooms, kids' rooms | High | Fair |
| Semi-Gloss | High | Trim, doors, cabinets | Very High | Poor |
| High-Gloss | Very High | Furniture, accents, specialty areas | Highest | Very Poor |
Choosing a paint finish comes down to a whole lot more than looks. It's about how a room is used. Let's break down the best paint finishes for each space in your home, based on durability, appearance, and ease of maintenance.
These recommendations offer a reliable starting point, but the right finish always depends on how you use each space, how much wear it will see, and the look you're going for.
Choosing the right paint finish doesn't have to be overwhelming. Now that you know what each sheen does and where it performs best, you're equipped to make smart, functional choices for every room in your home.
When you were first handed the finish options, you may have felt unsure, second-guessing what would work where. That's normal. Many people do. But with a clear understanding of how sheen impacts durability, appearance, and cleanability, you're in a much better position to move forward confidently.
What's next? Take a look at your space and lifestyle room by room, and use our comparison chart or recommendations above as a guide. Need help choosing a color? Check out our paint color selection guide.
Roe Painting has been helping home and business owners transform their spaces with a fresh coat of paint for over 25 years. If you're ready to bring your space to life, request a complimentary quote.