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Grades, sheens and choosing colors.

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Paint grades and sheens

Illustration of a living room wall painted in four stripes of the same blue-gray color in different sheens, lit by low sunlight from a window: flat with no shine, eggshell with a soft glow, satin with a noticeable sheen and semi-gloss with a clear reflection.

Paint grade

Premium paint costs more per gallon, covers in fewer coats and washes better.

Flat or matte

Hides wall flaws. Best for ceilings and low-traffic rooms.

Eggshell

A soft glow and easier to wipe. The usual choice for walls.

Satin

More washable, for kitchens, baths and kids' rooms.

Semi-gloss

Tough and wipeable, for trim, doors and cabinets.

Test colors at home

A color looks different in every light and sheen. Paint large samples on your walls and look at them morning and evening before deciding.

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