Paint Types & Where to Use Them

by Michael J. Butler
(Chicago, IL & New York, NY)

High Gloss (70+ on a 60 degree gloss meter)

Where to Use - For kitchen & bathroom walls, kitchen cabinets, banisters & railings, trim, furniture, door jambs & windowsills.

Comments - More durable, stain resistant & easier to wash. However, the higher the gloss, the more likely surface imperfections will be noticed.

Semigloss (35 to 70 on a 60 degree gloss meter)

Where to Use - For kitchen & bathroom walls, hallways, children's rooms, playrooms, doors, woodwork & trim.

Comments - More stain-resistant & easier to clean than flat paints. Better than flat for high-traffic areas.

Satin or Silk (Range overlapping eggshell & semigloss) - Similar characteristics to Semigloss & Eggshell.

Eggshell (20 to 30 on a 60 degree gloss meter)

Where to Use - Can be used in place of flat paints on wall surfaces especially in halls, bathrooms & playrooms. Can be used in place of semigloss paints on trim for a less shiny appearance.

Comments - It resists stains better than flat paint & gives a more lustrous appearance.

Flat (less than 15 on a 60 degree gloss meter)

Where to Use - For general use on walls & ceilings.

Comments - Hides surface imperfections. Stain removal can be difficult. Use for uniform, non-reflecting appearance. Best suited for low-traffic areas.

Matte Same characteristics as Flat.

Contact E-Z Painting for more information at 1-800-935-9520.