The level of sheen or gloss you select depends as much on appearance as functionality. Each finish has unique characteristics that will highlight or hide the character and construction of the room. Examples are as follows:

Flat Paint

Flat paint is an excellent choice for a uniform appearance across a large area. It tends to hide dents and dings , but it can trap dirt, stain easily and create a mildew-friendly environment more than a satin or semi-gloss formula. It will also tend to burnish more than other higher sheen finishes.

Satin Paint

Satin finishes offer a crisp long-lasting, just-painted look and are growing in popularity for large wall areas. This finish resists dirt, stains, and burnishing better than flat paint and is suitable for high traffic wall areas.

Semigloss Paint

Semigloss nicely sets off doors, trim and other architectural details that deserve attention. Increasingly homeowners and builders are opting to use the finish on larger surfaces. Semigloss also tends to resist dirt and mildew. It is a good choice for areas where a shiny appearance is desired like bathrooms and kitchen areas, but it will accentuate imperfections in the surface.

Gloss

Gloss accentuates trim, windows, and doors with even more shine than semigloss. Once only available as an oil-based paint, this finish is now made in latex formulas.

Ceiling Paints

Ceiling Paints are formulated to diffuse light from lamps and windows and have excellent spatter resistance, but since they have low hiding and scrub resistance they are not recommended for walls. A standard flat-finish paint is also appropriate for ceilings.

Paint Choice for Cracked or Bumpy Walls

If you have a less than perfect wall, try using a flat or low-gloss finish. It will show fewer cracks and imperfections than semi-gloss or glossy paint.

This article is brought to you courtesy of the Paint Quality Institute.

-- Tips courtesy of HomeAdvisor.com