Tips

1.Understanding different sheen levels of paint.

There are many different levels of sheen when it comes to interior and exterior paint. The basic ones are flat,   eggshell, semi gloss, and gloss.  Some companies offer satin, which is usually in between flat and eggshell. Some companies offer pearl , which is in between eggshell and semi gloss, and depending on which company you purchase it from , will determine the sheen level. They do not make this easy for us the consumer , best thing to do is to ask plenty of questions about the companies products to get a feal for there levels of sheen. Or you could ask your painter , who should know all the different companies products.

2. Determining what sheen level of paint to apply to the interior or exterior of your house.

There are many factors to consider when deciding on the sheen of your paint. Flat  paints have a tendency not show so many defects in the walls, which in the case of an older house with walls in very poor shape , would greatly improve the look. Flat paints on the other hand mark up very easily, and are very hard to wash and keep clean, not a very suitable product if you have little kids running around the house. Eggshell is probably the most common of wall paints , it almost has a slight glow to it , this product can be easily washed , and if the walls are prepared properly ,  in my opinion , is the best choice for sheen levels in a home.  Semi Gloss and Gloss paints can be used on walls , especially in bathrooms and kitchens where there is high humidity and water is being slashed around . By far they are the most durable of  all listed above, and can be washed with ease,  they should be considered not just for the bathroom and kitchen , but for all the trims in your home. ie- baseboards, crown mouldings, wane scotting , doors and casings.

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