Selecting a paint colour is only half the decision. The sheen, or the level of shine in a paint finish, can dramatically impact durability, appearance, and how well your walls stand up to everyday use. Different rooms benefit from different sheens, and choosing the right one ensures a long-lasting, attractive finish throughout your home. Here’s a helpful guide to selecting the best sheen for every space.
What is paint sheen?
Paint sheen refers to how shiny or reflective a paint finish is. Higher sheen levels are more durable and easier to clean, while lower sheens help hide imperfections and provide a softer, more elegant look.
Common sheen levels include:
- Flat
- Matte
- Eggshell
- Satin
- Semi-gloss
- Gloss
Each sheen has unique advantages depending on the room and its level of use.
Which sheen is best for living rooms and bedrooms?
Eggshell or matte finishes are ideal for living rooms and bedrooms. They provide a smooth, soft look that helps hide minor imperfections while offering reasonable washability.
If you prefer a more refined matte appearance, choose high-quality matte paints from Randall’s Paint Collectionsdesigned to be both durable and stylish.
What sheen should you use in kitchens and bathrooms?
Kitchens and bathrooms need finishes that handle moisture, heat, and frequent cleaning.
The best choices are:
- Satin
- Semi-gloss
Satin provides a gentle sheen with improved durability, while semi-gloss offers superior resistance to humidity, stains, and scrubbing—perfect for high-moisture rooms.
What’s the best sheen for hallways, entryways, and high-traffic areas?
Satin is the top choice for busy spaces. It holds up well against fingerprints, scuffs, and regular cleaning while maintaining a smooth, subtle glow.
Hallways and entryways benefit from paints that withstand daily wear, making satin the most practical and attractive option.
Which sheen works best for children’s rooms and playrooms?
Children’s spaces require durability and easy cleaning.
Choose:
- Satin
- Semi-gloss
These finishes allow you to wipe away marks, crayons, and smudges without affecting the surface.
What sheen should be used on trim, baseboards, and doors?
Trim, baseboards, and interior doors benefit from a harder, more reflective finish such as semi-gloss or gloss. These sheens highlight architectural details while resisting scuffs and fingerprints.
They also provide a clean contrast against walls painted in lower sheens like eggshell or matte.
Which sheen is best for ceilings?
Most ceilings should be painted in flat or matte finishes. These low-sheen options reduce glare and help conceal minor surface imperfections like seams or uneven textures.
What if my walls have imperfections—should I avoid glossy finishes?
Yes. Higher sheens like semi-gloss and gloss emphasize surface flaws. If your walls have dents, patches, or uneven textures, choose matte, eggshell, or satin for a smoother visual result.
Can I mix different sheens in one room?
Absolutely. Many rooms use more than one sheen to balance durability and design. For example:
- Walls in eggshell
- Trim in semi-gloss
- Ceiling in flat
This helps each surface perform its best while maintaining a cohesive look.
How do lighting conditions affect sheen selection?
Natural and artificial lighting can change how a sheen looks:
- Rooms with bright light may show flaws more with shiny finishes.
- Low-light spaces benefit from softer sheens, which reduce glare.
- Warm lighting enhances satin and eggshell finishes.
Randall’s in-store colour consultants can help you choose the right combination based on your home’s lighting.
Should I hire a professional painter for different sheen applications?
For rooms with multiple surfaces, unique lighting, or wear-prone areas, a professional painter can help ensure an even, long-lasting finish. Visit our Services Pageor complete a Painter Order Formto connect with trusted Ottawa painters.
Get Expert Advice on Choosing the Perfect Sheen
Whether you’re refreshing one room or transforming your entire home, selecting the right sheen is essential for beauty, durability, and long-term performance. Visit your nearest Randall’s store or Contact Usfor personalized guidance.
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Find the perfect balance of beauty and durability—Randall’s has the right sheen for every room in your home.