How to Choose the Right Paint Finish for Your Walls

A few weeks ago, I set out to do some quick touch-ups in our entryway. The original color, Silent White from Behr, has been on our walls since our big renovation a few years ago. I grabbed the can from storage—thankfully, I labeled everything—touched up the scuffs, and gave myself a little pat on the back.

But the next day, something felt… off. Sitting on the sofa, I caught a glimpse of the wall from another angle, and the freshly painted spots were noticeable. I double-checked the can—same color. But in the right light, I could clearly see the issue: the finish didn’t match. That’s when I remembered—our contractor had used eggshell when painting the walls originally, but the can I grabbed was flat. And no matter how perfect the color match, the difference in sheen was making those touch-ups stand out. A quick trip to Home Depot later, and I had the right finish to blend everything seamlessly.

Freshly touched up entryway, with the correct paint finish.

While waiting at the paint counter, I overheard someone struggling with the dilemma of selecting a finish. Choosing a color is one thing, but knowing which finish to pick? That’s where people get stuck. So, I asked him a few simple questions to help narrow it down:

Key Questions to Ask When Choosing a Paint Finish

✔️ What kind of room are you painting? A busy hallway has different needs than a cozy bedroom.

✔️ Are there imperfections on the walls? Higher sheens reflect more light, which can highlight flaws.

✔️ Is the space exposed to moisture or heat? Kitchens, bathrooms, and laundry rooms need a more durable, wipeable finish.

✔️ Is it a high-traffic area? Smudges and fingerprints are easier to clean off certain finishes.

In the end, he went with satin for his home office—just enough sheen to reflect light nicely but still forgiving with touch-ups.

A Quick Guide to Paint Finishes

💭 Flat / Matte – Best for low-traffic areas and ceilings. Hides imperfections but isn’t the most durable.

💡 Eggshell – A great all-around option for most walls. Soft sheen, easy to clean, and hides minor flaws.

✨ Satin – Slightly more sheen than eggshell, making it easier to wipe down. Ideal for kitchens, bathrooms, and kid-friendly spaces.

🌟 Semi-Gloss – Durable, moisture-resistant, and great for trim, doors, and cabinets.

⚡ High Gloss – Super reflective and durable but shows every imperfection. Best for accents, not full walls.

The right finish not only affects how your space looks but also how it lives. Pick wisely, and your walls will thank you.