You picked the perfect colour — now the finish. Same colour in a different sheen can completely change how a room looks and how easily it cleans. Here's the simple rule.
The trade-off in one line
Higher sheen is more durable and wipeable, but it shows every wall imperfection. Lower sheen hides flaws beautifully but is harder to scrub. The right choice balances the two for each surface.
The quick room-by-room guide
- Flat / matte: ceilings and low-traffic adult bedrooms. Hides imperfections best, but marks easily.
- Eggshell: the go-to for living rooms and bedrooms — a soft, low sheen that still wipes okay.
- Satin: hallways, kids' rooms, laundry and busy family spaces where walls get touched.
- Semi-gloss: trim, doors, kitchens and bathrooms — moisture-resistant and easy to clean.
- Gloss: a bold accent on a front door or feature trim. Stunning, but it shows every flaw.
Not sure what your space needs?
We'll recommend the right sheen for every surface — free with your quote.
One thing most people miss
Cheap paint's sheen looks uneven and patchy no matter how carefully it's applied. Quality paint delivers a consistent finish — which is why we use premium lines and know exactly which sheen suits each room.
Get the colour right and it looks nice. Get the sheen right and it looks professional.
