Choosing a paint finish that is right for your taste and interior needs is impossible if you are not familiar with all the options. The paint and finish of any place has a significant impact on how attractive it looks. Plus, other than aesthetics, the right paint will also work as a protective barrier for the walls. With today’s modern technology, we have so many options even for a paint finish, which makes it harder to choose the one that is right for you. In this blog, we will explore the many types of paint finishes that are offered by the painting services Dubai.
What Is A Paint’s Finish?
A paint’s finish, also known as its sheen, is the level of light reflection offered by that paint. This light-reflective property is measured in PVC (Pigment Volume Concentration). When a paint has lower pigment volume concentration or PVC, the sheen will be higher. This also means that the PVC average in any paint is inversely proportional to its sheen or light-reflecting property.
Here is an easy-to-understand breakdown of paint finishes with respect to PVC average in the paint.
| Paint Finish | PVC Range | PVC Average |
| High-Gloss | 0-15% | 7.5% |
| Semi-Gloss | 15-25% | 20% |
| Satin | 30-40% | 35% |
| Eggshell | 35-40% | 37.5% |
| Flat | 40-80% | 60% |
Different Types Of Paint Finishes In Dubai
Let’s have a look at different types of finishes that you can get for your property these days.
Flat
Many people confuse flat finish with matte but there is a difference between the two. Flat paint finish is one of the easiest paint finishes to apply. It also gives zero light-reflectivity and leaves a flat surface. The lack of light reflection lets more pigment show, which also works as a great concealer. Flat paint finishes are great for hiding flaws on the walls and creating uniform finish. Since this finish doesn’t reflect light, it is harder to spot any imperfections unless you are looking for them closely.
This paint is ideal for brighter rooms, where you get plenty of natural light. But, it is not recommended for areas with high traffic or where moisture is excessive. It can be difficult to clean and moisture exposure can cause damage.
Matte
Matte paint finish is quite similar to flat finish but it is way more durable. It also gives more pigment and depth of the color you are using for the paint. It leaves a smooth and elegant finish that makes any room luxurious looking. Unlike flat paints, matt paints are not as vulnerable to moisture. They are also easier to clean and can be used in busier areas as well.
Matte paints from renowned brands offer higher durability and strength, which makes them safe for areas like dining rooms, kitchens, and even bathrooms.
Eggshell
Eggshell paint finish lies on the lower end of the sheen scale. It offers more light-reflection than flat or matte finishes but it’s very little compared to satin or gloss finishes. The name eggshell comes from the paint’s similarity to the eggshell’s finish. The slight sheen of this finish makes it perfect for interior paints and it is favored widely for being a neutral finish option. It’s not too flat and not too glossy, making it ideal for a classy and timeless paint job.
Eggshell paint finishes are somewhat like flat paint. They are not as durable as high-gloss paint finishes and are also prone to moisture damage. Moreover, they are better for low to medium traffic areas, where they won’t require frequent cleaning.
Satin
Satin paints offer a moderate level of sheen that is very durable and resilient as well. Satin finishes are not a popular choice for modern bedrooms these days, but they are commonly used in moisture-prone areas like kitchens and bathrooms. This is because they are very easy to clean and also provide some resistance to moisture.
You can use this paint finish for areas with low to medium traffic. Satin finishes are also resistant to stains which makes them a more durable option than eggshell finishes. Their slight luster and sheen makes them a versatile option and you can apply this paint on interior walls, trims, shutters, and even doors.
Semi-Gloss
If you are looking to highlight any part of your home, you can do it with a semi-gloss paint finish. The semi-gloss finish offers a perfect balance of durability, luster, and easy cleaning. You can use semi-gloss paint on walls, doors, trims, and even cabinetry because of its strength. It may require professional application if you are not familiar with painting walls. If the paint application is flawed, it will be very visible on the walls.
Semi-gloss paint is perfect for high traffic areas and it can endure more abuse than other paints. Ideally, semi-gloss paint should be used on accent surfaces rather than flat walls. It is because its high light-reflective nature can make big and flat walls too overwhelming. This finish is more suitable for trims, panels, doors, and cabinetry that is exposed to moisture a lot.
High-Gloss
Finally, we have the high gloss, or simply gloss, paint. This is one of the most commonly used paint finishes for accent areas and exterior painting. Most people don’t prefer such high gloss finish for interior walls because it can be too reflective. Rather, it is more suitable for highlights and accents in your home. You can also use it for furniture that experiences a lot of use.
For accent elements and features, high-gloss can be the perfect way to highlight them. High-gloss finish is incredibly durable with an exceptional lifespan. It can make any place look more vibrant and eye-catching and this is why it shouldn’t be used on big, flat walls.
Final Words
Today’s market offers so many options for paint finishes but it is important that you do your research before making a choice. We hope this blog will give you a better understanding of the paint finishes and which one will be suitable for your needs.
FAQs
Which paint finish is the best for interior walls?
For interior walls, most professionals recommend eggshell paint finish. It is because of its moderate light-reflective nature and durability. It can be used on flat walls, trims, accents, and even interior doors.
Which paint finish is the most durable?
The most durable paint finish is high-gloss. It offers high light-reflectivity and this makes them incredibly resilient and enduring of abuse. This finish is also easier to clean and can be used in areas with high traffic.
Which paint finish is best for a DIY project?
If you are a beginner and thinking of taking on a DIY painting project, the best paint finish to work with is flat paint. You can also go for matte paints. Anything with slightly more sheen will be harder to manage if you don’t have some experience with painting walls.
How does the finish affect the paint color?
According to experts, the effect of finish on paint’s pigmentation is very little, but it’s there. High-gloss and semi-gloss paint finishes make the paint color more vibrant and lustrous. Whereas flat or matte paint finishes are good at softening the pigmentation of the paint. When the light reflects on the paint, it makes the paint colors more vivid and striking. It is better to do do patch tests for the paint finishes to see which finish works the best for you.
