Selecting the right paint color is crucial, but don't overlook the importance of choosing the correct finish. The finish you choose affects the look, durability, and cleanability of your paint job. With trusted brands like Benjamin Moore and Diamond Vogel, you have access to a wide variety of finishes for every room in your home. This guide will help you navigate the different paint finishes, where to use them, and specific options from each brand.
Understanding Paint Finishes
Paint finishes (or sheens) describe how much light reflects off a painted surface, ranging from ultra-matte to high gloss. Each finish impacts appearance and functionality. Here’s a quick overview:
- Flat/Matte
- Eggshell
- Satin
- Semi-Gloss
- High Gloss
Each finish can make a significant difference in a room’s ambiance, durability, and ease of cleaning. Let’s dive deeper into each type.
Flat/Matte Finish
Characteristics and Ideal Uses
Flat or matte finishes have little to no shine, making them perfect for hiding imperfections like dents or nail holes. They give walls a smooth, soft look and are ideal for low-traffic areas such as bedrooms, living rooms, and ceilings.
Recommended Products:
- Benjamin Moore’s Aura® Matte Finish: Offers rich color and high durability.
- Diamond Vogel’s EverCryl® Interior Flat: Provides excellent coverage with a soft matte look.
Pros and Cons
- Pros: Excellent at hiding imperfections, offers a soft and rich appearance.
- Cons: Harder to clean, may show marks or smudges.
- Best for: Bedrooms, living rooms, ceilings.
Eggshell Finish
Characteristics and Ideal Uses
Eggshell provides a slight sheen, making it a popular choice for moderately high-traffic areas like hallways, dining rooms, and family rooms.
Recommended Products:
- Benjamin Moore’s Regal® Select Eggshell: Known for stain resistance and rich color.
- Diamond Vogel’s CoverMax® Eggshell: Offers easy application and good washability.
Pros and Cons
- Pros: Easy to clean, hides minor imperfections.
- Cons: Not as durable as higher-sheen finishes.
- Best for: Dining rooms, hallways, family rooms.
Satin Finish
Characteristics and Ideal Uses
Satin finishes offer a subtle sheen and greater durability than eggshell, making them suitable for high-traffic areas like kitchens and bathrooms.
Recommended Products:
- Benjamin Moore’s Aura® Bath & Spa Satin: Designed for high-moisture areas.
- Diamond Vogel’s Diamond Satin: Offers long-lasting durability and coverage.
Pros and Cons
- Pros: Durable, moisture-resistant.
- Cons: More reflective, may show imperfections.
- Best for: Kitchens, bathrooms, laundry rooms.
Semi-Gloss Finish
Characteristics and Ideal Uses
Semi-gloss is more reflective, making it ideal for trim, doors, and cabinets. It’s also highly durable and stands up well to scrubbing and moisture.
Recommended Products:
- Benjamin Moore’s Advance® Interior Semi-Gloss: Offers a high-end finish.
- Diamond Vogel’s Door & Trim Semi-Gloss: Provides smooth finish and durability.
Pros and Cons
- Pros: Extremely durable and easy to clean.
- Cons: Reflective surface shows imperfections.
- Best for: Doors, trim, baseboards, kitchens.
High Gloss Finish
Characteristics and Ideal Uses
High gloss finishes create a mirror-like effect that can add elegance and drama. They are highly durable but unforgiving with surface imperfections.
Recommended Products:
- Benjamin Moore’s Ultra Spec® High Gloss: Offers impressive shine and coverage.
- Diamond Vogel’s Mirror Finish High Gloss: Provides a luxurious finish.
Pros and Cons
- Pros: Reflective, durable, ideal for creating focal points.
- Cons: Shows imperfections clearly.
- Best for: Cabinets, furniture, accent walls.
Choosing the Right Finish for Each Room
- Low-Traffic Rooms: Opt for matte or eggshell finishes.
- Moderate-Traffic Rooms: Choose eggshell or satin for balance.
- High-Traffic Rooms: Use satin, semi-gloss, or high gloss for durability.
- Trim and Accent Areas: Go for semi-gloss or high gloss for standout finishes.
Benjamin Moore & Diamond Vogel: Quality and Versatility
Both brands offer a wide range of quality finishes suitable for any project. Benjamin Moore’s Regal® Select and Aura® are known for their rich pigmentation and durability. Diamond Vogel’s offerings include CoverMax® and EverCryl® for value and versatility.
Choosing the right paint finish enhances both the look and performance of your home. Whether you're painting a cozy living room or a busy kitchen, the right finish makes all the difference. Visit our stores or explore online to find the best paint and finishes for your project.
