Making a choice between eggshell and satin paint? We guide you through the ideal option for superior results
Eggshell and satin paints are two popular choices for home decorators, each offering unique benefits and suitable for different areas of the home.
Eggshell Paint: A Soft, Classic Finish
Eggshell paint, as the name suggests, provides a soft, low-sheen finish that is great for a classic or subtle look. It is more forgiving when applying, making it ideal for novice DIYers, especially when painting woodwork. Eggshell paint works well on period homes and offers a soft, low-lustre finish that is great for walls and ceilings. However, it is less moisture-resistant and not as easy to wipe down as satin paint.
Satin Paint: Durable and Easy to Clean
Satin paint, on the other hand, has a slightly glossier, more contemporary finish. It is preferred on woodwork and trim for a crisp, defined look. Satin paint is more durable and resistant to scuffs and marks compared to eggshell, though the difference is not very large if both are properly applied with the right primer. The higher sheen level of satin paint gives it a slight edge in holding up better in high-traffic areas.
Moreover, satin paint is easier to clean than eggshell, making it a better choice for spaces prone to dirt and contact like hallways, living rooms, and woodwork (e.g., skirting boards). It is sometimes chosen for bathrooms and kitchens because it is easier to clean compared to other finishes.
Making the Right Choice
When choosing between eggshell and satin paint, it's a matter of personal preference, but satin offers a slightly more luminous finish. Satin paint is often used for woodwork, especially for high-traffic areas like skirting boards, bathrooms, and kitchens due to its durability and ease of cleaning. Eggshell paint, however, is better suited for areas that don't get as much traffic, such as ceilings, bedrooms, and less-used areas of a kitchen.
Expert Advice
Ashley Aspin, an interior decorator and colour consultant, emphasizes the importance of proper prep work and painting techniques, regardless of the paint finish chosen. Michael Rolland, a painting expert and Managing Director of The Paint Shed, agrees, adding that it's always worth sticking to the recommended primer, undercoat, and topcoat when using satin or eggshell paint for a durable, long-lasting finish.
For guides on sanding walls, painting wood, and how to paint a panel door, check out our resources for proper prep and painting techniques.
[1] Pav Wasik, Founder of Uptown Interiors, personal communication, 15th March 2023. [2] Michael Rolland, Managing Director of The Paint Shed, personal communication, 15th March 2023. [3] Ashley Aspin, Interior Decorator and Colour Consultant, personal communication, 15th March 2023. [4] Satin Paint Manufacturer, Product Specifications, 2023. [5] Eggshell Paint Manufacturer, Product Specifications, 2023.
Eggshell paint is ideal for novice DIYers when painting woodwork due to its forgiving nature, especially on period homes where a classic, subtle look is desired. However, it's less moisture-resistant and not as easy to clean as satin paint.
Satin paint offers a more durable finish, making it preferable for high-traffic areas like skirting boards, bathrooms, and kitchens, as well as spaces prone to dirt and contact. It's also easier to clean compared to eggshell paint.
When selecting between eggshell and satin paint, personal preference plays a role, but satin offers a slightly more luminous finish. Eggshell paint is better suited for areas with less traffic, such as ceilings, bedrooms, and less-used kitchen spaces.
Proper prep work and painting techniques are essential, regardless of the paint finish chosen, as emphasized by Ashley Aspin, an interior decorator and colour consultant. Michael Rolland, a painting expert, agrees and advises using the recommended primer, undercoat, and topcoat for a durable, long-lasting finish.
For guides on sanding walls, painting wood, and how to paint a panel door, home-and-garden enthusiasts can refer to our resources on proper prep and painting techniques. (Referenced sources)
Whether embracing a lifestyle of home improvement or simply enhancing the design of your home, choosing the right paint for each room can make a significant impact on your home-and-garden projects, ensuring the best results.
