5 Paint Finishes Explained (Plus How to Choose the Right One for Your Home)

If you’ve ever stood in the paint aisle staring at flat vs. matte vs. eggshell vs. satin vs. semi-gloss… wondering if these words are secretly code for something you should already know — you’re not alone.

Whether you’re starting a large renovation or giving some DIY love to the powder room you’ve neglected since you moved in years ago (with the peeling wallpaper — you know the one), selecting the right paint finish will make or break the space.

The right finish = polished + elevated
The wrong finish = smudges + extra work for you

Rather than going cross-eyed in the paint aisle trying to figure this out yourself, I’m breaking down the differences, where to use each finish, and the industry standards we typically recommend at Revival.

First, What Is a Paint Finish?

The finish (or sheen) determines how shiny or matte your paint looks, but more importantly, it affects:

  • Durability

  • Washability

  • How easily it scuffs

  • How it hides or highlights imperfections

  • How your wall color reads in different lighting

Two people can use the same paint color and have it look totally different — finish matters! Your wall color can look warmer, cooler, or slightly different depending on which finish you pick. Paint brands and lines will also affect the finish. Adding in a color consultation is always recommended!

Fanned-out paint color swatches with a paintbrush resting on top, showing different color options for home projects.
Paint tray filled with white paint and a paint roller coated in paint, ready for application.
Overhead view of an open green paint can with a paintbrush and small roller placed beside it.

The Main Paint Finishes Explained

1. Flat / Matte Finish

Sheen level: Very low / almost no sheen
Look: Soft, flat, velvety
Durability: Lower wipeability; hides imperfections very well. If your walls have texture, patches, or waves, matte will disguise them.
Common uses: Low-traffic areas — adult bedrooms, ceilings, spaces where you want minimal light reflection
Vibe: Cozy, calm, modern, non-reflective

Flat gives a softer, elevated designer finish but is not the easiest to clean. We typically recommend it in low-touch areas — like a guest room or primary bedroom where durability isn’t a daily concern.

2. Eggshell Finish

Sheen level: Soft, subtle, very low sheen
Look: Smooth with a gentle glow — not shiny, but not fully matte
Durability: Very good; more washable and forgiving than flat/matte
Common uses: Main living areas, family rooms, kids’ rooms, kitchens — anywhere you want durability without shine
Vibe: Cozy, approachable, family-friendly; the happy middle ground between style + practicality

3. Satin Finish

Sheen level: Soft, velvety, low-to-moderate sheen
Look: More subtle, less reflective
Durability: Good, but not as wipeable as semi-gloss
Common uses: Walls in high-traffic areas, bathrooms, kids’ rooms, doors if you want a softer, more modern look
Vibe: Modern, understated, low-sheen

4. Semi-Gloss Finish

Sheen level: Noticeably shiny
Look: Crisp, polished, highlights detail
Durability: Very durable, very wipeable — great for areas that get touched often
Common uses: Trim, baseboards, doors, built-ins, cabinetry
Vibe: Classic, traditional, clean, and crisp

5. High-Gloss Finish

Sheen level: Extremely shiny, mirror-like reflection
Look: Bold, dramatic, ultra-polished — every detail stands out
Durability: Very durable and highly wipeable, but shows imperfections and requires meticulous prep
Common uses: Accent millwork, furniture, cabinetry, statement built-ins, and very intentional design moments; not often used in standard home repaints
Vibe: Luxe, glamorous, high-impact — the “look at me” finish for special features, not everyday walls

So… What Should You Use in Each Room? (The Simple Guide)

Here’s the combo most homeowners love — and most architects/contractors recommend:

  • Ceilings: Flat

  • Trim + Doors: Semi-gloss

  • Walls (main living areas): Eggshell or matte

  • Walls (bedrooms/low-traffic): Flat or matte

  • Kitchens + Bathrooms: Eggshell or satin for more moisture resistance

  • Kids’ rooms or high-touch spaces: Eggshell (your future self will thank you)

Why Finish Matters More Than You Think

A lot of homeowners focus on the color, but the finish is what determines how your home actually lives.

Want walls you can wipe down after sticky fingers? Eggshell. All day.

Want trim that still looks good after you run the vacuum into it four times a week? Semi-gloss.
(Is anyone else guilty of this??)

Cartoon robot vacuuming and bumping into baseboard trim with the caption “thank goodness that trim is semi-gloss.”

Want your bedroom to feel soft and cozy? Flat.

Revival Recommendations: Flat Ceilings | Matte Walls | Semi-Gloss Trim and Doors

This keeps things timeless, cohesive, and durable while giving your home that high-end finish without the high-maintenance lifestyle.

Do we have clients that want flat walls and satin trim? 100%.
Is that wrong? Absolutely not. They have stunning taste. Our role as the builder is simply to share expert knowledge so clients know what to expect from their finishes.

Thinking about adding some bold paint statements to your next project?

If you want expert eyes on your space before choosing your finish, we’re here to help.

A special thank you to our incredible paint trade partner Torrisi Painting for ensuring every Revival project is painted to perfection. We’re grateful for the craftsmanship, care, and consistency they bring to our homes.

Homeowner TipsAriel MannRevival Building GroupCustomer Tips