Choosing the right paint colour is only half the battle. The finish — also called sheen — plays an equally important role in how your walls look and perform. Different finishes reflect light differently, and each one has its own strengths when it comes to durability, washability, and aesthetics.
Here's a breakdown of the most common interior paint finishes and where to use each one.
Flat / Matte
Best for: Ceilings, low-traffic rooms, bedrooms, dining rooms
Flat or matte finishes have zero shine, which gives walls a smooth, velvety appearance. They're excellent at hiding surface imperfections like small dents, patches, and uneven textures. However, matte paint is less resistant to scuffing and harder to clean, so it's best suited for rooms that don't see heavy daily use.
Eggshell
Best for: Living rooms, bedrooms, hallways
Eggshell has a slight sheen — just enough to reflect a soft glow without looking glossy. It's more washable than flat paint and holds up better in moderate-traffic areas. If you want a finish that looks elegant but is still forgiving of imperfections, eggshell is a great all-around choice.
Satin
Best for: Kitchens, bathrooms, kids' rooms, high-traffic hallways
Satin finishes have a noticeable soft sheen and are significantly more durable and washable than eggshell. They resist moisture well, making them ideal for kitchens, bathrooms, and any area that gets a lot of use. The trade-off is that satin shows surface imperfections more than flatter finishes, so proper wall prep is important.
Semi-Gloss
Best for: Trim, baseboards, doors, window casings, cabinets
Semi-gloss paint has a bright, reflective finish that's highly durable and easy to clean. It's the standard choice for trim work, mouldings, and doors. In bathrooms and kitchens, semi-gloss on walls can provide extra moisture protection. Because of its high reflectivity, it will highlight any surface flaws — so smooth, well-prepared surfaces are essential.
High-Gloss
Best for: Accent details, furniture, front doors
High-gloss is the most reflective and durable finish available. It creates a dramatic, almost mirror-like surface. It's rarely used on full walls because it magnifies every imperfection. Instead, it's typically reserved for accent elements, built-in shelving, or exterior doors where maximum durability is needed.
Quick Reference Guide
| Finish | Sheen | Durability | Best Rooms |
|---|---|---|---|
| Flat/Matte | None | Low | Ceilings, bedrooms |
| Eggshell | Low | Medium | Living rooms, hallways |
| Satin | Medium | High | Kitchens, bathrooms |
| Semi-Gloss | High | Very High | Trim, doors, cabinets |
| High-Gloss | Very High | Maximum | Accents, furniture |
Need Help Choosing?
If you're unsure which finish is right for your project, our team can help. SQFT Contracting provides professional interior painting services across Toronto and the GTA. We'll recommend the best finish for each room based on its use, lighting, and your personal style.