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Brandon Homeowners’ Guide: What Is the Difference Between Eggshell and Satin Paint?

Choosing paint for your home requires more than deciding on the perfect paint color. The type of finish you choose makes a huge difference in the final result. Before you go to the paint store, you need to know what is the difference between eggshell and satin paint so that you know which one you want to buy.

There are many types of paint finish varying from flat to high-gloss. Eggshell and satin are in the middle of the spectrum, making them both common choices. When you need professional painters in Brandon, FL, you need Original Florida Painting Company. We provide both interior and exterior painting services for Brandon and the surrounding areas. 

Eggshell Paint Finish

You probably already know that eggshell paint finish gets its name from the texture of an eggshell. It is more glossy than a basic flat finish but is still more matte than satin finish. It’s a popular choice for interior walls because it hides scuffs and imperfections well.

When it comes to kitchen cabinets, the matte eggshell finish is not typically used. Even though it gives depth to interior walls, it makes cabinets and other wooden details look dull.

Durability

Eggshell is great for DIY paint projects since it hides imperfections, but it is not very durable. While it is a good choice for walls, it can’t withstand high-contact areas like baseboards and interior door casing.

Satin Paint Finish

Satin has more of a glossy sheen than eggshell. Professional painters typically recommend satin as the highest degree of sheen that you should choose for interior walls. Satin finish highlights imperfections in the paint. The higher the sheen, the more imperfections show.

No single type of paint is perfect for every type of surface. Satin is a more versatile option than other finishes because it is both light reflective and highly durable.

Durability

Satin finish is more durable than eggshell, making it an excellent option for areas like kitchens and bathrooms that need deep cleaning on a regular basis.

It brings out the details in crown molding and millwork trim because of the high amount of light reflection.

The Price Difference Between Eggshell and Satin

The main concern when homeowners ask, “what is the difference between eggshell and satin paint,” is price.

When shopping for paint, keep in mind that the price varies according to sheen. Since eggshell is less glossy, it typically costs about $2 less per gallon than satin. 

Even though satin finish costs a little bit more, the price is worth it in terms of durability. You will have to repaint areas with eggshell finish more often than if you choose satin finish.

Summary of the Pros and Cons of Eggshell and Satin

Both eggshell and satin finishes are good choices, but for different reasons. Here are some of the pros and cons of each one:

Eggshell Finish Pros

Eggshell finish is a slightly cheaper option per gallon. While cost varies depending on the brand and the retailer, eggshell is typically about $2 cheaper than satin.

If you’re an inexperienced painter, eggshell finish is a more forgiving option. It is easy to accidentally apply paint thicker in some areas and thinner in others. The inconsistencies don’t show as much with eggshell finish because it isn’t as glossy as satin.

Eggshell can also mask existing wall damage, like scuffs and scratches. Overall, eggshell is a budget-friendly way to make an aging home look new again.

Eggshell Finish Cons

In terms of lasting durability, eggshell is not the best option. It is not a good choice for areas that need frequent cleaning, like kitchens and bathrooms. 

If you want to repaint your kitchen cabinets, the minimally reflective aspect of eggshell can make the end result look dull.

Satin Finish Pros

Satin finish makes the details on wooden trim and cabinets stand out due to the high level of light reflection. Other types of finish minimize details in woodwork, diminishing their beauty.

It’s easy to clean, withstanding even professional cleanings without looking chipped or worn. It is a great choice for high-humidity areas like bathrooms. 

Satin Finish Cons

Satin finish is not a good choice to use for high-touch areas like around doors. It quickly looks worn and needs frequent touch-ups. 

If you are an inexperienced painter or your walls have a lot of existing damage, satin is not a good option. It reflects a lot of light, highlighting all sorts of imperfections. Once you finish painting, you might even notice more flaws than you noticed on the walls before you applied the satin finish.

Satin finish typically costs more per gallon than eggshell. While it takes a higher initial investment, satin finish lasts longer than eggshell.

Where To Use Eggshell vs. Satin Paint

Due to their differing levels of light reflection and durability, eggshell and satin are best used in different areas. 

Eggshell is best used on interior walls that don’t require frequent cleaning. Because it covers imperfections well, it is ideal for textured walls or areas with scuffs. It is great for first-time homeowners who love DIY projects because it hides uneven paint application.

Satin needs a more experienced hand, as it highlights imperfections. It can handle a heavy cleaning schedule, making it good for kids’ rooms and other high-contact areas.

It is a great option for painting wooden trim because it brings out the details and won’t look worn quickly. Satin tends to stay in good shape longer than eggshells.

Reliable Painters in Brandon, FL

 Painting your home yourself can be a health hazard, but we take every precaution to keep you and your family safe. Now that we’ve answered the question, “What is the difference between eggshell and satin paint,” you can start preparing walls for painting and call our team of professional painters for service. 

Original Florida Painting Company is a veteran-owned business serving Brandon and nearby communities. Contact us to schedule a free estimate for custom interior or exterior painting.

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