Well, that beautifully bright white space can’t stay white forever! Once the sheetrock process is finished, it will be time to finish the space with wood, tile, plumbing and lighting fixtures, and of course paint.

When selecting paint, it’s important to look not only at color but at the finish of the paint as well. Different types of paint are more suited for some areas than for others. Here’s a quick primer on paint… (no pun intended)!

Satin or eggshell finishes are preferred for high traffic areas and kids’ play areas. It’s a beautiful finish that is easy to maintain. Just wipe up those fingerprints with a damp cloth. This is the type of finish we recommend most of the time for interior walls.

For painted woodwork (trim, doors, cabinetry, railings, etc.), a semi-gloss paint gives a beautiful finish. That semi-gloss gleam provides an attractive contrast against eggshell or satin painted walls. Glossy surfaces are unforgiving and show every dent and ding which is why we would rarely recommend this finish for walls.

Flat, matte painted finishes should be reserved for surfaces unlikely to require frequent washing. This type of finish is good at concealing flaws, making them an excellent choice for older walls with “character.”