Surface is the other major consumer concern. People generally used high-gloss in kitchens, bathrooms and on trim, then turned to flat paint for the rest. Today, there are several intermediate surfaces, each with its advantages. Flat paints are generally the least expensive paints, even in premium paint lines. But they also have the least washable surface.
Flat paints are best for hiding slight irregularities.
As a rule, the shinier the finish, the greater the chance that flaws and defects will show up. Some brands offer an eggshell finish. It looks almost identical to a flat paint, but if you touch it, you can feel a slight sheen. It's the most popular paint surface, particularly for households with children or pets. Both can be very hard on paint surfaces.