What is the difference between paint sheens?

Paint sheen refers to how much light the paint reflects, ranging from flat (no shine) to high gloss (very reflective). The sheen level affects both the appearance and performance of your paint, making it crucial to choose the right one for each room and surface in your Ottawa home.

Flat or matte paint reflects the least light and provides excellent coverage for hiding wall imperfections like nail holes, texture variations, or minor drywall repairs. However, flat paint is the most difficult to clean and can show scuff marks easily. It's ideal for low-traffic areas like adult bedrooms, dining rooms, and ceilings. In Ottawa's older homes, particularly heritage properties in areas like the Glebe or New Edinburgh, flat paint works well on textured plaster walls where you want to minimize the appearance of age-related imperfections.

Eggshell and satin sheens offer a subtle glow while still hiding minor wall flaws reasonably well. Eggshell has just a hint of shine, while satin is slightly more reflective. Both are more washable than flat paint, making them excellent choices for living rooms, hallways, and bedrooms where you might need occasional cleaning. Satin works particularly well in Ottawa homes with children or pets, as it can handle gentle scrubbing without damage.

Semi-gloss paint provides noticeable shine and excellent durability. It's highly washable and moisture-resistant, making it the preferred choice for kitchens, bathrooms, trim work, doors, and window frames. In Ottawa's climate with significant humidity changes between seasons, semi-gloss performs well in areas prone to condensation. Many contractors recommend semi-gloss for all trim work because it creates a nice contrast with wall colors and stands up to frequent cleaning.

High-gloss paint offers maximum durability and the easiest cleaning but shows every surface imperfection. It's typically reserved for cabinets, furniture, or high-traffic trim that needs frequent washing. Some Ottawa homeowners choose high-gloss for front doors to create a striking entrance that can withstand harsh winter weather.

For Ottawa homes specifically, consider that our freeze-thaw cycles can cause minor settling and wall movement, making flat or eggshell better choices for hiding these natural imperfections. In basement areas common to Ottawa homes, use satin or semi-gloss for better moisture resistance. Quality paint brands like Benjamin Moore or Sherwin-Williams offer excellent performance in our climate, with prices ranging from $45-80 per gallon depending on sheen and quality level.

Choose your sheen based on the room's function and traffic level - flat for low-traffic areas, eggshell/satin for living spaces, and semi-gloss for kitchens, baths, and trim. When in doubt, consult with paint professionals who understand Ottawa's specific climate challenges and can recommend the best products for long-lasting results.