Gloss, Matte or Low Sheen? Choosing Paint Finish and Sheen Levels

June 19, 2025

When choosing paint, most people focus on colour — but paint finish is just as important. Also known as paint sheen, the finish determines how much light the surface reflects, which affects both the final look and the durability of the painted surface. Paint sheen and paint finish are often used interchangeably to describe the gloss level of paint, ranging from flat/matt to high gloss. Each level offers different benefits and is suited to different areas of the home or building.


Understanding paint sheen levels can help you avoid common pitfalls like using a high-gloss finish on a wall with imperfections or choosing a flat finish in a high-traffic area where washability is essential. Many DIYers overlook this step, but choosing the right paint finish is key to achieving a professional-looking result.


high gloss pfinish and semi gloss finish are ideal for door frames and scirting boards

Types of Paint Sheen Levels — From Flat to High Gloss


Knowing the different paint sheen levels helps you choose the right finish for each part of your home, both for looks and long-term durability. Each level refers to how much light the paint reflects, which impacts its appearance, cleanability, and how well it hides surface flaws.


Here’s a quick breakdown of the most common finishes used in Australian homes:


Flat / Matt Paint


  • No sheen at all
  • Ideal for ceilings and low-traffic areas
  • Great at hiding imperfections on older walls or rough surfaces
  • Not very washable, so best for areas where scuffs are unlikely


Low Sheen Paint


  • Slight sheen, often the standard for interior walls
  • Offers a subtle finish that’s more forgiving than satin or gloss
  • Easier to clean than flat paint
  • Perfect for bedrooms, living rooms, and other moderate-traffic areas
  • Low sheen paint meaning: a balanced finish that offers softness with a touch of durability


Satin (Sometimes called Eggshell)


  • A step up in shine and washability
  • Works well in family rooms, hallways, or homes with young children
  • Durable enough to handle occasional cleaning without showing every mark


Semi Gloss


  • Noticeably more reflective and durable
  • Excellent for trims, doors, windowsills, and kitchens or bathrooms
  • Resists moisture and is easy to wipe down


High Gloss


  • The most reflective finish available
  • Very durable, but also shows every imperfection underneath
  • Commonly used for feature walls, furniture, or cabinetry where a bold, sleek look is desired


Choosing the right sheen isn’t just about style — it’s about function. The higher the gloss, the more durable and easy to clean the surface will be, but it also means more visible surface flaws. The lower the sheen, the more it hides, but with less resistance to wear and tear.


Four cans of paint of different colors and paint finish are stacked on top of each other.

Where to Use Each Paint Finish: Room-by-Room Guide 


Choosing the right paint finish isn’t just about aesthetics — it’s about how the surface performs under everyday conditions. Whether you’re painting indoors or out, different paint sheen levels suit different areas of your home. Here’s a quick guide:


Interior Recommendations


Ceilings

Best finish: Flat/Matt


  • Hides imperfections
  • Minimal reflection, perfect for low-light areas
  • Ideal for bedrooms, living areas, and hallways


Living Rooms & Bedrooms

Best finish: Low Sheen


  • Subtle, modern appearance
  • Slightly washable for light scuffs
  • Perfect for creating a soft, welcoming feel


Hallways & Family Rooms

Best finish: Satin


  • Offers durability and a touch of shine
  • Resists minor marks and easy to clean


Kitchens & Bathrooms

Best finish: Semi Gloss


  • Handles steam, moisture, and frequent cleaning
  • Suitable for areas with high humidity
  • A good option for coastal or tropical climates in Australia


Doors, Skirtings & Trims

Best finish: Semi Gloss or High Gloss


  • Easy to wipe down
  • Highlights architectural features
  • Durable against knocks and frequent contact

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Exterior Recommendations


Weatherboards & Exterior Walls

Best finish: Low Sheen or Satin


  • Offers balance between appearance and durability
  • Low sheen hides surface irregularities from the sun’s glare
  • UV-resistant exterior paints are ideal for hot Australian summers


Front Doors & Window Frames

Best finish: High Gloss


  • Stands out with strong visual impact
  • Easy to clean and weather-resistant


Eaves & Soffits

Best finish: Flat or Low Sheen


  • Reduces glare and hides minor imperfections


Australian Conditions to Consider


  • UV Exposure: High gloss and satin finishes are more fade-resistant, ideal for sun-exposed areas.
  • Humidity: Semi gloss or specialised bathroom paints prevent mould in tropical or coastal climates.
  • Bushfire Zones: Use BAL-rated exterior paints with a low sheen or satin finish that complies with fire safety standards.


Can I mix different gloss levels in one room?


Yes, you can mix different gloss levels (or paint sheen levels) in one room — and in many cases, you should. In fact, professional painters often combine sheens to get the best of both worlds: durability and aesthetics. Here’s how it’s typically done:


✅ Common Examples of Mixing Sheen in a Room

  • Walls: Low sheen or satin for a soft, elegant look that's still cleanable
  • Ceilings: Flat/matt to reduce glare and hide surface imperfections
  • Doors, Skirtings & Trims: Semi gloss or high gloss for contrast, durability, and easy cleaning


This approach:

  • Adds depth and visual interest to a space
  • Highlights architectural details like architraves and mouldings
  • Uses higher-gloss finishes only where it’s practical (e.g. areas touched often or cleaned regularly)


⚠️ What to Avoid

  • Don’t randomly switch sheen on walls unless it's an intentional design feature (e.g. a gloss feature wall)
  • Ensure colours are consistent across sheens — different gloss levels can make the same colour appear slightly different


💡 Additional Tip

In high-sunlight rooms, avoid high gloss on large wall areas as it can cause harsh reflections. Stick to low sheen paint for the walls and semi gloss for trims to balance durability and comfort.


Looking for expert advice on paint finishes and sheen levels? Our local Perth house painters can help you choose the right look and durability for every room. Call now or request your free quote — we service all Perth suburbs.