Satin vs. Semi-Gloss: 3 Differences Between the Paints
What Is Satin Paint?
Satin-finish paint has more of a matte finish than high-gloss or semi-gloss options. A satin finish keeps the pigment of the paint color true to its original hue but is shinier than a matte paint or a flat paint. Homeowners can consider using flat-finish satin paint (also known as eggshell paint) for high-traffic areas like living rooms, dining rooms, or kids’ rooms. A satin finish paint is durable, easy to clean, and reflects an adequate amount of light to provide a soft and warm glow. An eggshell finish will hide imperfections and scuff marks better than a high-gloss paint.
What Is Semi-Gloss Paint?
Semi-gloss (or semi-gloss) paints do not have the high shine or luster of high-gloss finishes but are more durable than flat paints with a matte finish. This glossier type of paint is somewhat stain-resistant and can be a good paint choice for any area you need to clean often, such as playrooms, family rooms, or kitchen cabinets. Semi-gloss paint is easy to apply for small touch-ups to furniture and toys, but it can also be the right paint for a larger painting project like refinishing your bathroom walls. Since there’s a higher concentration of polyurethane in semi-gloss paint than in matte paint, semi-gloss is a preferable type of paint to combat the growth of mold and mildew in bathrooms and kitchens.
Satin vs. Semi-Gloss Paint: 3 Areas of Difference
Satin and semi-gloss paints can fulfill similar purposes, but there are slight differences you should consider before picking a finish for your next paint job, including:
- Appearance: Satin is a low-sheen alternative to semi-gloss, which will reflect lighter off its surface. If you are painting interior walls across large windows, satin paint can soften the glare of sunlight entering the room. If you are painting a darker room, you can use semi-gloss paint finish to brighten the space with a bold paint color.
- Durability: Semi-gloss paint is more durable than satin paint. However, if dings, dents, or blemishes appear, they will be more noticeable with a glossy finish. Both options will be easy to clean, although semi-gloss paint will hold up better against moisture and protect the surface beneath it against water damage.
- Texture: The higher amount of polyurethane in semi-gloss paint provides a higher sheen than satin does, but it also creates a slightly sticky, plastic-like texture. The smooth and softer texture of a satin finish closely resembles the surface of an eggshell. If you wish to paint over semi-gloss paint with a satin finish replacement, you can remove the glossy layer with some light sanding.
