How to Choose Paint Sheen or Paint Finish | Ricciardi Brothers

Shop online for in-store pickup or local delivery!

Ricciardi Brother Paint

    How to Choose Paint Sheen or Paint Finish

    April 30, 2021 1 min read

    How to Choose Paint Sheen or Paint Finish

    Paint comes in a wide variety of finishes, from dead flat to high gloss. Years ago, you would always paint trim or high-traffic areas with gloss paints because they offered better washability.

    Walls & Ceilings

    Walls and ceiling are generally painted with a flat, matte or eggshell finish.

    Trim & Doors

    For trim and doors, you can choose from pearl, satin, semi-gloss, or high gloss.

    Kitchens, Laundry Rooms & Bathrooms

    For kitchens, laundry rooms, or bathrooms, many people like to use a higher gloss finish. Today, many super-premium products, such as Benjamin Moore's Aura® paint, offer the same durability and washability in all sheens, so the selection of the finish is more of a personal preference.

    TIP: The higher the gloss of your wall paint, the more it will show imperfections. If you own an older home in which the walls have been patched multiple times, or a home that has a lot of high walls with a lot of natural light, you may want to use a flat or matte paint. This is also true for the exterior of your home.

    For best results, ALWAYS READ THE PAINT CAN LABEL. Professionals read the paint can labels to get the paint manufacturers’ most up-to-date information and instructions on the use of each specific paint. Every paint is different, and the labels provide important information, such as the average coverage area per gallon, drying times, number of coats needed, and surface preparation requirements. The labels also give specific safety information that should be carefully adhered to.

     Downloadable PDF: How To Choose Paint Sheen or Finish



    Also in Our Blog

    Introducing Farrow & Ball's New Colors at Ricciardi Brothers
    Introducing Farrow & Ball's New Colors at Ricciardi Brothers

    March 06, 2025 2 min read

    Farrow & Ball has unveiled an inspiring new palette, featuring nine brand-new shades and three classic colors from the archive. Whether you're refreshing a historic home or designing a modern retreat, these carefully crafted hues bring elegance and character to any space.

    Read More
    Benjamin Moore's 2025 Color Trends Palette, available in New Jersey at your local Ricciarid Brothers
    Benjamin Moore’s 2025 Color of the Year: Cinnamon Slate

    October 16, 2024 3 min read

    The announcement of Benjamin Moore’s Color of the Year is a much-anticipated event in the world of paint and design. For 2025, Benjamin Moore has selected Cinnamon Slate (2113-40), a velvety plum paint color with rich brown undertones that will influence homes, businesses, and design projects across the country. Whether you’re planning to refresh a room or undertake a full-scale renovation, Cinnamon Slate is the perfect choice for creating a sophisticated yet welcoming atmosphere.
    Read More
    Benjamin Moore Color Trends Rewind: A Look Back at a Decade of Vibrant Shades
    Benjamin Moore Color Trends Rewind: A Look Back at a Decade of Vibrant Shades

    September 25, 2024 2 min read

    With the 2025 Color of the Year on the horizon, it's the perfect time to reflect on the stunning hues that have defined previous years. These colors capture the spirit of each era. Stay tuned October 16th for 2025's Color of the Year.
    Read More