AT A GLANCE
Choose color, sheen, and product together. Each answers a different question.
Decide what you want the surface to do
Lower-reflection finishes can soften the appearance of uneven walls. More reflective finishes draw attention to trim and details, but can make surface imperfections more visible. Satin and eggshell sit between the low-sheen and glossy ends of the range.
Ask about cleaning, not just shine
Tell the painter which walls get touched, splashed, or wiped most often. Durability and washability also depend on the paint formulation; two products with similar sheen names are not necessarily equivalent. Compare the manufacturer’s product information instead of selecting from a sheen name alone.
Treat trim as its own decision
Doors and trim often need a different finish from broad wall areas. A contrast in sheen can define those details even when the color stays the same. Discuss the underlying material and the previous coating before choosing an enamel.
Look at a sample in place
View the sample near windows and under the lighting you use at night. Look along the wall as well as straight at it. Bring the finish you prefer into the estimate conversation, along with any cleaning concerns.
Sources & further reading
General project planning, not a product specification. Confirm current requirements for your exact coating and site. How we maintain these guides.