Sheen is about durability and look more than quantity, but it is worth choosing deliberately.
The sheens
- Flat and matte: hides surface flaws, good for ceilings and low traffic walls, harder to clean.
- Eggshell and satin: a slight sheen, washable, the usual choice for living areas.
- Semi gloss and gloss: tough and wipeable, for trim, doors, kitchens and bathrooms.
Sheen and coverage
Coverage per gallon is broadly similar across sheens, around 350 to 400 square feet per coat, so sheen does not change how much you buy much. What changes coverage more is the surface: rough, porous or previously unpainted walls drink more paint.
Estimate your paint. Paint Calculator →
Common questions
Does sheen change how much paint I need?
Not significantly. Coverage is similar across sheens. Surface texture and porosity matter more.
Which sheen for a bathroom?
Semi gloss or satin, which resist moisture and wipe clean.
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