Which Finish Should I Use For My Interior Painting Project?

When planning your next interior painting project, choosing the right color is only half the battle. The paint finish you select—whether flat, eggshell, satin, semi-gloss, or gloss—has just as much impact on the final look, durability, and feel of your space. Each finish has a purpose, and using the wrong one can lead to faster wear, noticeable imperfections, or a mismatched aesthetic.

At A1 Paint Pros, we help homeowners make informed decisions for lasting beauty and performance. As a trusted painting company for Jacksonville, we've painted everything from cozy bedrooms to high-traffic hallways, and we know exactly which finishes work best where.

Understanding Paint Finishes

Paint finishes are classified by their sheen, or how much light they reflect. The higher the sheen, the shinier the surface—and the more durable and washable it tends to be. Lower sheen finishes, while less reflective, are better at hiding surface imperfections and creating a softer appearance.

• Flat (Matte): No sheen. Best for low-traffic areas like ceilings or adult bedrooms. Great at hiding wall flaws, but not easy to clean.
• Eggshell: Slightly more sheen than flat. Ideal for living rooms, hallways, and dining rooms. Easy to clean with a soft, elegant look.
• Satin: A velvety finish with a soft sheen. Very durable and good for busy areas like kitchens, bathrooms, and kids' rooms.
• Semi-Gloss: Shiny and highly durable. Best for trim, doors, cabinets, and moisture-prone spaces.
• Gloss: Very high sheen. Used sparingly for accent trim or specialty designs; not typically used for walls.

Match the Finish to the Room

Different rooms in your home serve different functions, and your paint finish should reflect that. In living rooms and adult bedrooms, eggshell is often the perfect balance between style and function. It gives a smooth finish that's easier to wipe clean than flat but still hides minor imperfections.

For high-humidity spaces like bathrooms and kitchens, satin or semi-gloss is ideal. These finishes stand up better to moisture and allow for easy cleaning of splatters or stains. In children's rooms or hallways, satin works well because it holds up against frequent contact while offering a soft, welcoming appearance.

Semi-gloss is the go-to for baseboards, crown molding, window frames, and doors. It gives architectural elements a polished, standout look while offering extra protection in high-touch areas. Reserve gloss finishes for special design features. Its shine can be stunning, but it also highlights every flaw, so it's best applied to perfectly smooth surfaces.

If you're ready to transform your home with beautiful, long-lasting color and the perfect interior painting finish, schedule a consultation with A1 Paint Pros today.