Choosing emulsion paint primarily depends on the desired finish and the required durability for the area you are painting, as the higher the sheen, the higher the durability.
Emulsion paints come in various finishes, each offering a different level of sheen and resilience. Understanding these differences is key to selecting the right paint for your walls and ceilings.
Understanding Emulsion Paint Finishes
The finish of an emulsion paint refers to its look and feel once dry, specifically its level of reflectivity or sheen. This sheen level is directly related to the paint's durability.
According to the reference, the four most common finishes are:
- Matt: Has the least sheen.
- Eggshell: Has more sheen than matt.
- Satin: Has more sheen than eggshell.
- Gloss: Has the most sheen.
Sheen Level vs. Durability
A critical factor in choosing is that the higher the sheen, the higher the durability. This means that paints with a higher sheen can typically withstand more wiping and cleaning without showing wear compared to paints with a lower sheen.
Here's a simple breakdown based on the reference:
| Finish | Sheen Level | Durability Level |
|---|---|---|
| Matt | Least | Lowest |
| Eggshell | Low-Medium | Low-Medium |
| Satin | Medium-High | Medium-High |
| Gloss | Highest | Highest |
Practical Considerations for Choosing
Based on the relationship between sheen and durability, you can choose a finish suitable for different rooms and surfaces:
- Matt: Often chosen for ceilings and low-traffic areas like bedrooms or formal living rooms. Its low sheen hides imperfections well but is less durable and harder to clean than glossier finishes.
- Eggshell: A popular choice for walls in living rooms, hallways, and bedrooms. It offers a slight sheen, making it more durable and washable than matt, while still providing a softer look than satin or gloss.
- Satin: Suitable for areas that require more durability and frequent cleaning, such as kitchens, bathrooms, or children's rooms. It has a noticeable sheen and is more robust than eggshell.
- Gloss: Typically used for woodwork (skirting boards, doors, frames) due to its high durability and washability. It provides a very reflective, often sleek look. While less common for walls, it can be used in high-moisture or high-wear areas if a high sheen is desired.
Ultimately, selecting emulsion paint involves balancing the aesthetic you want (how shiny you want the surface to look) with the practical needs of the room (how much wear and tear it will experience and how often it needs cleaning). Consider the traffic level, potential for moisture, and whether hiding surface imperfections is a priority when making your choice.
