Choosing the Right Finish: A Guide to Perfect Interior Paint May 19, 2025

When it comes to transforming your living space, the color and finish of your interior paint play pivotal roles. At Atlantic Painting Company, we recognize that selecting the best finish is as crucial as choosing the right color. Whether you’re painting a new room or refreshing current walls, understanding finishes ensures long-lasting satisfaction. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you navigate through your options to achieve the perfect look for your walls.First, let's discuss why selecting the right finish is vital. The finish affects the overall appearance, durability, and ease of cleaning. Each finish has its unique characteristics and performs differently in various environments. Choosing the ideal one not only enhances the room’s aesthetic but also provides the practical benefits of maintaining the paint job efficiently.One of the commonly used finishes is flat or matte. This finish offers a non-reflective, smooth appearance, perfect for low-traffic areas like adult bedrooms or ceilings. Due to its lack of sheen, it’s excellent at hiding surface imperfections. However, it’s less durable and challenging to clean, making it less suitable for spaces that experience everyday wear and tear.Satin finishes, often favored for their subtle shine, are a versatile choice suitable for living rooms, hallways, and even kitchens. Satin paints are more reflective than flat finishes, providing a smooth, velvety look that adds depth to walls. This finish is highly durable and easier to clean, making it an ideal pick for areas with moderate traffic and activity. A quick wipe with a damp cloth can easily handle most stains.Eggshell finishes fall between matte and satin on the sheen spectrum, offering a low-luster appearance that’s still capable of disguising minor surface blemishes. They are slightly more robust than matte finishes, making them a popular option for family rooms and dining areas. This finish strikes a balance between elegance and functionality with its easy maintenance.For spaces that endure high levels of activity like kitchens, bathrooms, or children’s rooms, semi-gloss and gloss finishes are the preferred choices. Semi-gloss finishes provide a noticeable sheen that accentuates architectural details like moldings and trims. It is extremely durable and moisture-resistant, which is essential for maintaining a fresh appearance in steamy or busy environments. Gloss finishes, though less common for whole walls, are perfect for high-impact areas needing an ultra-durable coating.When choosing a finish, it’s essential to consider both the function and aesthetic you want to achieve. For a seamless and professional outcome, testing samples on your walls can give you a clearer picture of how each finish will perform in your space. Lighting and room use are pivotal considerations that impact the choice. High-traffic areas benefit from finishes with higher sheen levels, while rooms designed for relaxation might lean towards a more matte finish.In conclusion, with so many finishes to choose from, making the right decision can initially seem overwhelming. At Atlantic Painting Company, our goal is to simplify this process, ensuring you make an informed decision. By understanding the individual properties and advantages of each finish, you can transform your home into an extraordinary space that combines beauty with practicality. If you’re ready to embark on your painting journey, consult with one of our experts to achieve a flawless finish in every room.