How to Choose the Right Paint Finish for Your Orlando Home
Most homeowners put all their focus on choosing the right paint color, but only a few give as much thought to the right paint finish. Here in Orlando, where the climate is humid, and sunshine is abundant, choosing the right paint finish is actually a crucial aspect. The right paint finish not only enhances the look of your home but can also affect the longevity and maintenance of your walls.
What To Consider
Room Function
It’s crucial to first think about the purpose of the room and how much foot traffic it will receive. High-traffic areas like hallways and kitchens require more durable paint finishes that can withstand more frequent cleaning and have a higher degree of wear and tear. Semi-gloss or high-gloss finishes are great for these areas as they’re easier to clean and maintain. On the other hand, choose flat finishes for low-traffic spaces like bedrooms for a more subtle effect.
Your Personal Aesthetic
Think about the amount of shine and what kind of vibe you’ll want in the space. If you prefer a soft, velvety look for a cozy room, go for a matte finish. On the other hand, choose a glossy finish if you want an elegant and sophisticated room.
Ease of Cleaning and Maintenance
Different paint finishes have varying levels of durability and ease of cleaning. Glossier finishes like semi-gloss and high-gloss tend to be more resistant to moisture, stains, and scuffs. These finishes are perfect for high-moisture areas such as kitchens and bathrooms. Alternatively, flat and eggshell finishes tend to be more forgiving when it comes to hiding imperfections, but take note that they’re more challenging to clean. You may need to do touch-ups more frequently.
Lighting Conditions
The amount and type of lighting in a room can affect how a paint finish appears. Gloss finishes work great in well-lit spaces, as they help create a bright and reflective ambiance, while matte finishes help soften the light and create a more subtle look. When you’re choosing the paint finish, keep in mind that glossier finishes tend to highlight imperfections on the walls.
Types of Paint Finishes
Flat/Matte Finish
These finishes reflect very little light and have the least amount of shine. They’re great at hiding imperfections and are ideal for low-traffic rooms like bedrooms or living rooms. However, flat paint finishes are harder to clean and have a porous nature that absorbs more stains and dirt.
Eggshell Finish
Eggshell finishes have a subtle sheen with a soft, low-luster look. They have a slight gloss that falls between flat and satin finishes. Use this finish for moderate-traffic areas like family rooms and home offices, as they give a balance of durability and aesthetics.
Satin Finish
This finish has a soft, pearl-like sheen and a smooth, velvety appearance. It is recommended for high-traffic rooms like kitchens and bathrooms and for highlighting features such as molding and doorways.
Semi-Gloss Finish
Shiny and reflective, semi-gloss finishes can help make a space look brighter and more vibrant, making them great for high-moisture and high-traffic areas.
High-Gloss Finish
High-gloss finishes have the most shine, offering a mirror-like and smooth surface. They’re best for accent walls and even furniture, as they help to add depth and dimension. However, keep in mind that they tend to highlight surface imperfections or any bumps and dents in the wall due to their highly reflective nature.
Discover The Right Paint Finish That Will Transform Your Space
When you’re trying to create the perfect look and ambiance in your space, you’ll have to pay attention to more than just the paint color. The right paint finish makes a significant difference, too. The right paint finish can enhance the overall aesthetic and even influence the mood of a room. Call us today if you need more help considering the various factors when making your decision, and we’ll be happy to help.