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Matte vs Eggshell Paint: What's the Difference?

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Everything you need to know to select the best paint finish for your space

Reviewed by Jeanine Hattas Wilson

Last Updated: April 30, 2024 Fact Checked

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What's the difference between eggshell and matte paint?

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Characteristics of Eggshell & Matte Finishes

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When should I use a glossy finish, instead?

When it comes to a home painting project, choosing the color is probably the first thing you do. Now it's time to think about sheen. Should you use eggshell, matte, or something else? What's the difference anyway? That's where we come in! Keep reading to learn how to pick the perfect paint.

Things You Should Know

Matte paint has a velvety finish that absorbs light while camouflaging surface imperfections.
A matte finish is a good option for low-traffic areas such as dining rooms and adult bedrooms.
An eggshell finish has a slight sheen and is more washable and durable than a matte finish.
Eggshell paint can be used in guest rooms and living rooms. It’s also a popular choice for trim and exterior walls.

Section 1 of 3:

What's the difference between eggshell and matte paint?

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Because it's slightly glossier, a smooth eggshell finish is more durable and easier to clean. ^{[1]
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Research source} Although matte paint doesn't hold up well to scrubbing, its velvety finish does accept touch-ups better than eggshell paint.

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Section 2 of 3:

Characteristics of Eggshell & Matte Finishes

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Matte paint provides more coverage than eggshell paint. The glossier a paint is, the more surface flaws on your walls will show. A matte finish camouflages dents and dings very well, making it a good choice for beat-up surfaces. ^{[2]
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Durability The glossier a paint is, the better it holds up to wear and tear. Since matte paint isn't glossy at all, it's best used in low-traffic locations such as dining rooms, ceilings, and adult bedrooms. Eggshell paint is ideal for trim, living rooms, and hallways. These medium-traffic areas receive some use but don't require frequent scrubbing. Eggshell is also a popular choice for guest rooms. ^{[3]
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- The low reflective quality of a matte finish makes a space feel soft and serene. It has a soft, velvety appearance.
- Painting pros often prefer an eggshell finish when painting baseboards because it stands up well to scuffing. ^{[4]
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Interior vs. Exterior Eggshell paint is a popular choice for exterior walls. It gives homes a smooth appearance with a slight shine. The paint covers well and hides imperfections better than glossier finishes while being less prone to chipping than matte paint. ^{[5]
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- Avoid a matte finish when painting your home’s exterior walls , as it doesn’t hold up well to power washing.
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Eggshell paint costs a bit more than matte paint. Expect to pay $1 - $3 USD more per gallon (3.79 L) for eggshell paint. Typically, every time you go up a level in sheen, the price also increases. For example, Behr Dynasty matte paint currently costs $59.98 a gallon (3.79 L), while Behr Dynasty eggshell paint costs $62.98 a gallon (3.79 L). Of course, prices vary across brands. ^{[6]
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Section 3 of 3:

When should I use a glossy finish, instead?

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Use satin or semi-gloss paint in a bathroom. Humidity is an issue in bathrooms; moisture from shower steam can seep between the paint and drywall, causing bubbling and peeling. It’s smart to use a satin or semi-gloss finish when painting a bathroom because these high-sheen paints repel water. ^{[7]
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- There are a few eggshell paints that are specially formulated to resist moisture, such as BEHR Ultra Scuff Defense Stain-Blocking Paint and Primer in one and Zinsser Interior Perma White paint . After these paints have cured, you can use a rag to clean your walls with soap and water. ^{[8]
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This finish is moisture-resistant and holds up to cleaning, so wiping down kitchen grease stains is easy. It's a popular choice for woodwork that takes a beating since it's more durable than eggshell paint. ^{[9]
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High-gloss paint is best for cabinets and furniture. It dries to a tough, hard finish that stands up to vigorous scrubbing. Its shiny, durable finish makes it perfect for painting cabinets , dressers, and end tables. ^{[10]
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- High-gloss is the most expensive finish, but it’s well worth it if you’re painting a surface that requires frequent scrubbing. ^{[11]
  X
  Research source} Make sure you take the time to prep surfaces well because every imperfection will be highlighted.

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About This Article

Reviewed by:

Jeanine Hattas Wilson

Professional Painter

This article was reviewed by Jeanine Hattas Wilson . Jeanine Hattas Wilson is a Professional Painter and the President of Hattas Public Murals, Inc. With nearly 20 years of experience, Jeanine specializes in creating, overseeing, designing, and painting murals. Jeanine holds a BA in Advertising from Marquette University and a Studio Painting Minor from The Milwaukee Institute of Art & Design. She has studied at The Atelier Artien in Paris, France, Los Angeles Academy of Figurative Art, and under renowned artists such as Robert Liberace, Michael Siegel, and William Cochran. To date, Hattas Public Murals has painted nearly 5,000 commissioned works of art in homes and commercial and public spaces. This article has been viewed 9,253 times.

1 votes - 100%

Co-authors: 3

Updated: April 30, 2024

Views: 9,253

Categories: House Painting

Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 9,253 times.

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