Flat paint has the lowest gloss level and almost no shine. It absorbs light rather than reflecting it, which helps create a smooth, even look. Because flat has minimal reflectance, it is excellent at disguising small surface flaws.

A soft matte finish with no glare. It makes colour look rich and consistent from every angle.

• Ceilings: Flat is the best ceiling sheen because it hides seams, patches, and texture variations.
• Low-traffic interior rooms: Adult bedrooms, formal living rooms, home offices, and areas that don’t need frequent scrubbing.
• Imperfect walls: If your drywall has dents, nail pops, or uneven patches, flat is the best sheen choice for masking those flaws.

Flat paint is less washable than other paint sheen levels. If the walls will get touched often (kids, pets, narrow hallways), consider eggshell or pearl instead.

Eggshell is a low-sheen finish with a gentle glow — slightly more reflective than flat, but still subtle. In our lineup, eggshell sits between pearl and low gloss, offering a balance of softness and durability.

A smooth finish with a faint, warm light reflection. Colours feel deeper than in flat, without looking shiny.

• Living rooms and dining rooms: Eggshell is often the best “all-around” wall finish for most homes.
• Kids’ rooms and family spaces: It’s washable enough for regular cleaning.
• Rec rooms, laundry rooms, and moderate-traffic hallways: Eggshell handles daily life while staying forgiving on the wall.

If you’re unsure what is the best paint sheen for interior walls, eggshell is a safe, versatile choice that’s easy to apply and easy to live with.

Pearl has more shine than eggshell and a richer, pearl-like glow. It sits between eggshell and semi-gloss in gloss levels, giving you extra durability without a high-shine look.

A soft luminosity that reflects more light than eggshell. In brighter rooms, pearl can make spaces feel open and airy.

• Busy wall areas: Hallways, stairwells, mudrooms, playrooms, and kitchens where easy cleaning matters.
• Open-concept interiors: Pearl helps bounce light through connected spaces.
• Walls next to semi-gloss trim: It gives a clean, intentional contrast without feeling flat.

Pearl is more reflective than eggshell, so prep matters. Patch and sand rough areas first if you want the best finished look.

Low gloss is a durable sheen with a smooth, soft shine similar to what many people call “satin.” It reflects more light than pearl and is designed for frequent cleaning.

A noticeable sheen that makes colour feel slightly richer and surfaces look smoother.

• High-traffic interior rooms: Family rooms, kids’ rooms, corridors, finished basements, laundry areas.
• Bathrooms: Low gloss is a best choice for humidity resistance while still looking soft.
• Exterior siding: Many homeowners choose low gloss for exterior house bodies because it blends durability and a natural look.

Low gloss is a great “best of both worlds” option when you want washable walls but don’t want them to look shiny.

Semi-gloss is a higher gloss level finish that reflects a lot of light and stands up extremely well to moisture and scrubbing. It’s one of the toughest paint sheen levels for everyday home use.

Clearly reflective with a clean, crisp shine. It highlights architectural detail and surface edges.

• Trim, doors, and mouldings: The best classic sheen for baseboards, casings, interior doors, and stair railings.
• Cabinets: Kitchens, bathrooms, and laundry built-ins benefit from semi-gloss durability.
• Bathrooms and kitchens (walls): Great for splash zones and frequent wiping.
• Exterior accents: Shutters, trim, and doors where you want durability and definition.

Semi-gloss shows surface flaws more than low-sheen finishes. For best results, sand patches smooth, prime, and keep a wet edge while rolling.

Gloss (also called high gloss) is near the top of gloss levels. It’s highly reflective, extremely durable, and easy to wipe clean. Once cured, it creates a hard enamel-like finish.

A bright, almost mirror-like shine. It makes colours pop and turns surfaces into statement pieces.

• Statement doors and trim: Perfect if you want bold contrast or a modern lacquered look.
• Furniture and built-ins: Tables, chairs, bookshelves, and vanities for a smooth high-impact finish.
• High-wear details: Handrails, stair parts, and high-touch surfaces.
• Exterior front doors: High gloss is a best choice for curb appeal and weather resistance.

Gloss is the least forgiving sheen level. For the best outcome, prep carefully: sand smooth, remove dust, prime properly, and use high-quality tools to avoid lap marks.

• Lower gloss levels (flat, eggshell) hide imperfections and create a softer, calmer look.
• Higher gloss levels (semi-gloss, gloss) are best for surfaces that need extra durability, moisture resistance, and easy cleaning.