What are the differences in sheens or finishes? When should one be used?
Flat paints have virtually no gloss and are excellent in terms of hiding surface imperfections and any underlying colors. They do a less-than-desirable job, however, of providing stain resistance, so they should be used in more formal rooms that receive minimal traffic. Flat enamel paints do a great job of providing hide, just like conventional flat paints, but they also offer a bit of stain resistance not possible with conventional flat paints. A flat enamel paint will offer more durability in low-traffic areas. Satin finishes deliver a shinier looking, “warmer” finish than flat paints. Satin paints do a good job in terms of hide (or coverage), as well as offer stain and scrub resistance qualities. This makes them ideal for living rooms, dining room, hallways and bedrooms. Semi-gloss finishes enhance a room by their shiny, “rich and lustrous” look. Semi-gloss paints offer excellent stain and scrub resistance and therefore are ideal for all rooms, including kitchens and bathrooms; they
