Understanding Paint Finishes

Understanding Generic Paint Finishes: A Quick Guide

Choosing the right paint finish is just as important as picking the right colour. Each finish offers a different level of sheen, durability, and visual effect and is better suited to specific surfaces and spaces. Each brand will have different names for their own finishes but here we explain of the most common generic terms:

Vinyl Matt

  • Sheen Level: 0–8%

  • Look: Velvety, non-reflective finish

  • Best For: Bedrooms, living rooms, ceilings, and low-traffic areas where durability isn't a priority. 

  • Key Benefits: Hides surface imperfections well; creates a soft, elegant look

  • Considerations: Not as washable or durable as other finishes

Washable Matt

  • Sheen Level: 0–8%.

  • Look: Velvety, non-reflective finish.

  • Best For: Bedrooms, living rooms, hallways, kitchens (where condensation isn't a problem) and high-traffic areas. 

  • Key Benefits: Hides surface imperfections well, creates a soft, elegant look. 

Soft Sheen

  • Sheen Level: 5–10%

  • Look: Slightly shinier than matt, but softer than satin

  • Best For: Walls in bathrooms, kitchens, or low-light areas

  • Key Benefits: Reflects light gently and offers added durability

  • Considerations: A good middle ground between matt and satin

Eggshell

  • Sheen Level: 15–30% (depending on brand).

  • Look: Soft, low-sheen finish. 

  • Best For: woodwork, cabinetry and skirting and doors. Also used on PVC, metal and tiles with the appropriate primer. 

  • Key Benefits: Durable and easy to clean. Low sheen finish. 

Satin

  • Sheen Level: 25–40% (depending on brand).

  • Look: Mid sheen finish. 

  • Best For: woodwork, cabinetry and skirting and doors. Also used on PVC, metal and tiles with the appropriate primer. 

  • Key Benefits: Durable and easy to clean. Mid sheen finish. 

  • Considerations: Can highlight surface flaws if not applied smoothly.

Gloss

  • Sheen Level: 70–95% (depending on brand).

  • Look: High-shine, reflective finish

  • Best For: Doors, trim, furniture, cabinets and metalwork.

  • Key Benefits: Very durable and easy to clean.

  • Considerations: Shows every bump and brush stroke — best on well-prepped surfaces