Flat: Mostly used on common area ceilings throughout residences because it hides imperfections and does not attract your attention away from the rest of the house, like shinier paint may do. This finish can also be used on walls, but due to its non-washable surface, it can only be touched up by painted, not cleaned.
Eggshell: Highly recommended for walls throughout because it has all of the desired wall attributes. It is washable, not very shiny, and durable. Walls are usually shinier than ceilings (which are usually flat) and less shiny than trim and doors (which are usually satin or semi-gloss) so it will provide a nice contrast between the different sheens. This sheen can also be used in a kitchen or bathroom.
Satin or Semi-Gloss: Only really used on walls in kitchens and bathrooms. Provides washability and water resistance, so great for greasy areas and moist areas. Shiny paint on damaged drywall can look tacky and pronounce imperfections, so not generally recommended anywhere else in the residence.
Flat & Eggshell; Not recommended
Satin or Semi-Gloss; Satin sheen is the lowest sheen recommended for wood work in a residence. Many enamel paints designed for wood finishing are not even available in anything lower than a Satin sheen. This is because you are usually looking for durability and washability on wood surfaces as they get handled way more than walls surfaces do. You are always touching cabinets, doors and windows by opening and closing them, and somehow things always tend to bang against your baseboards. Having an enamel, or shinier paint on these surfaces will allow them to hold up to this abuse, and allow you to clean and wash them off as dust and dirt collect on them.
Flat; It is possible to use flat paint on wood T&G ceilings and is often done when one wants to hide any imperfections in the existing wood. Newer wood usually has some enamel or sheen.
Eggshell; Most commonly used for wood ceilings because it provides some sheen and washability, but also is not very shiny which is recommended for ceilings as to not attract attention from the other areas of the residence.
Satin; Can be used on wood ceilings but only if it is the intention to attract attention a decorative ceiling or ceiling feature.
Another thing to consider is that paints durability levels vary depending on what they are being used for. "Wall" paint really should not be used on wood doors or trim because it is generally not as durable, and is also therefor usually less expensive. This makes sense because it does not need to hold up to the abuse that wood gets in the home. More expensive shiny paints can also provide a harder-shelled enamel that will last longer and present a nicer finish, but can also be more brittle and prone to cracking.Contact Purple Painting with any questions.
If you're looking for a local painting company in Santa Barbara, CA, turn to Purple Painting.
Call 805-448-1241 today to schedule service.
