How do you decide to use eggshell or flat paint?

Answer 1

The difference between flat and eggshell is a very simple but important one.

Flat paint is not washable is should only be used on surfaces that do not get touched... ceilings are the best place to use flat paint.

Eggshell paint has the ability to be wiped, using a soft cloth and a very mild soap. This makes it perfect for the walls in a bedroom, a dining room or a living room. I have used eggshell throughout in homes that do not have children as adults tend not to get smudges and prints on their walls.

Answer 2

Flat or Matt finish paint can be used to conceal small imperfections in a surface. The higher the gloss level of a paint, the easier it is to see small dents and bumps.

A disadvantage of flat paint is that it can be easily damaged by cleaning or brushing against it. This may leave smoother patches as the fine texture of the paint is damaged.

For this reason flat paint is often used on large smooth areas that would show imperfections, like ceilings, and that are not likely to be touched or cleaned often.

Answer 3

Flat latex paint is normally used in interior or exterior surfaces where no sheen is desired and that won't need to be scrubbed clean often. Flat surfaces are also used on walls that are not finished perfectly so that imperfections that would stand out on a higher sheen surface, are minimized.

Answer 4

Paint that isn't shiny. Paint comes in Flat, Semi-Gloss and Glossy. Most people use Flat paint for walls and the exterior of their house.

Answer 5

Wherever you don't want a shine.