These terms indicate the sheen or gloss level, or degree of light reflectance, of the paint. Essentially, they describe the paint’s shininess and finish quality. Semi-Gloss Where to Use: Kitchen and bathroom walls, hallways, children’s rooms, playrooms, doors, woodwork, and trim. Comments: More stain-resistant and easier to clean than flat paints. Ideal for high-traffic areas due to its durability. Satin or Silk (Range overlapping eggshell and semi-gloss) Where to Use: Suitable for areas needing a balance between gloss and durability, like living rooms, dining rooms, and bedrooms. Comments: Offers a smooth, velvety finish with characteristics similar to both semi-gloss and eggshell. Eggshell Where to Use: Great for wall surfaces in halls, bathrooms, and playrooms. Can also be used on trim for a less shiny appearance compared to semi-gloss. Comments: Resists stains better than flat paint and provides a more lustrous appearance. Flat Where to Use: Ideal for general use on walls and ceilings. Excellent at hiding surface imperfections. Comments: Stain removal can be challenging. Provides a uniform, non-reflective appearance. Best suited for low-traffic areas. Matte Where to Use: Same characteristics as flat. Ideal for living rooms, bedrooms, and other low-traffic areas. Comments: Similar to flat paint, matte finishes hide imperfections well and create a smooth, non-glossy look.