The Best Types Of Paint For Interior Painting

They provide even light reflection and give the surface a softer, more uniform look.

They don’t highlight surface imperfections like higher sheen paints, so they usually don’t require as much surface preparation (like patching, texturing or sanding) before painting.

They are much less likely to show “lap marks”, so they are generally easier to apply and touch up than higher-sheen paints. (When one painted section dries before the next section is painted, the two sections won’t flow together into a uniform film, resulting in a “lap mark.”)

They don’t need to be sanded or de-glossed before repainting, unlike higher-sheen paints.

They are less stain and scuff-resistant than higher-sheen paints, so they should not be used on surfaces that will be handled, washed or scrubbed frequently.

They are less moisture resistant than higher sheen finishes, so they are not the best choice for areas exposed to high humidity levels, like in bathrooms, or on any surfaces that will be washed frequently.

They have better stain resistance, so they resist dirt pickup and stay cleaner longer.

They have better scuff and wear resistance, so they’re good for high-traffic areas and on surfaces that are handled, washed or scrubbed frequently.

They have better moisture resistance, making them ideal for surfaces and areas frequently exposed to high humidity levels.

They tend to highlight any surface imperfections.

They are harder to touch up than lower-sheen paints because the higher sheen tends to highlight the slightly raised surface of the film where the touch-up was done.

They usually need to be sanded, de-glossed or primed before repainting, to ensure good adhesion of the new paint.