Sheen is how shiny paint is. It affects how a wall looks, how well it hides flaws, and how easily it cleans.
The main sheens
- Flat / matte — hides surface flaws best, but scuffs and is harder to clean. Common on ceilings.
- Eggshell — a slight sheen, a little more washable. Common in living rooms and bedrooms.
- Satin — more washable and moisture-tolerant. Common in kitchens, bathrooms, hallways and kids' rooms.
- Semi-gloss — durable and easy to wipe. Common on trim, doors and cabinets.
- Gloss — very durable and very shiny; shows every flaw.
Humidity matters here
Georgia summers are humid, and bathrooms, laundry rooms and kitchens add their own moisture. In those rooms, a satin or semi-gloss finish usually holds up better and wipes clean. Good ventilation — a working exhaust fan — matters as much as the paint.
Shinier shows more
The higher the sheen, the more it shows patches, dents and uneven texture. If walls have been patched, a lower sheen can be more forgiving.
Touch-ups
Touch-ups blend best when sheen matches exactly. Keep leftover paint labeled by room.
Planning a project? See interior painting.