Paints come in a variety of sheens, from no shine flat to high gloss enamels. The relative degree of shine affects the durability and usage of the paint film. Generally, the higher the gloss, the more long lasting the finish. There is also an aesthetic component: A lustrous, light reflecting finish has a very different look from a flat non-reflective wall paint. This C2 Paint sheen guide provides a convenient reference table for what type of sheen to use on specific surfaces.
Sherwin Williams Paint Sheen Guide
This is a Sherwin Williams paint sheen guide. Every manufacturer offers a sheen finish guide for top coats that are formulated to look good with each other. They present examples of each sheen gloss level and a finish guide that describes where each sheen is best used. It is important to choose the right sheen for each surface in your house.
While picking the perfect color is the most important task in achieving a desired aesthetic, choosing the correct finish can be equally as important. With many options and countless possible combinations, considering the unique characteristics of each is an essential part of planning your project. Use this sheen selector chart to learn about the qualities of each finish.
Sheen Guides
The gloss level you choose for your paint project can have a significant impact on the appearance and cleanability of your space. Colors in higher glosses will appear lighter and brighter than the same color in a lower sheen. Additionally, higher gloss paints have better washability and dirt resistance. Conversely, glossier paints tend to highlight surface defects and imperfections. All paint companies provide complimentary sheen charts along with paint color chips.
