Painting is an affordable and effective way to give your bathroom a fresh look. However, choosing the right type of paint is not always as easy as it sounds. If you’re renovating your bathroom, you may wonder whether to go with eggshell or satin paint.
Since bathrooms are humid and have more exposure to water, satin paint is more suitable. Eggshell and satin offer a slightly glossy finish that will hold up better in a wet environment, but satin can resist moisture better. It also has a harder finish, which will help it stand up to scrubbing and cleaning.
In this article, you’ll learn:
- The 4 factors to consider in choosing a paint finish
- The pros and cons of satin paint
- The pros and cons of eggshell paint
- How to decide between satin and eggshell
The 4 Factors to Consider When Choosing a Paint Finish for Bathrooms
1. Resistance to Mold and Mildew
Bathrooms are prone to mold and mildew growth, which can cause unsightly stains and an unpleasant odor. Therefore, choosing paint with anti-microbial properties that inhibit mold and mildew growth is crucial. Look for paints labeled as “mold and mildew resistant.”
2. Durability
The bathroom is a high-traffic, high-moisture area prone to wear, tear, and stain. Therefore it is important to choose a highly durable paint that can withstand frequent cleaning and scrubbing.
3. Budget
The cost of bathroom paint finishes varies depending on the brand, type, and quality of the paint. Gloss or semi-gloss finishes are generally more expensive than flat paints.
Quality paints with high-performance features may also come at a higher price point. However, investing in high-quality paint will ensure durable surfaces that will last longer and require fewer touch-ups.
4. Aesthetics
Your bathroom’s walls should look great and complement the existing decor and fittings. If your bathroom is small, consider choosing a light color to give the illusion of more space.
A brighter or darker color can also be a good choice if you prefer a bold statement. Choose a finish that will enhance the color and aesthetics of your bathroom.
Pros and Cons of Eggshell Paint
Eggshell paint is a popular choice among homeowners and painting professionals alike. It gets its name from the smooth, slightly glossy finish it provides, which mimics the appearance of a real eggshell. This type of paint has a velvety texture that is not too flat nor shiny.
Pros of Eggshell Paint for Bathroom
Attractive and Elegant Finish
Eggshell paint has a subtle sheen that adds elegance and warmth to any bathroom. It gives a soft glow that reflects light and makes the space appear brighter and more inviting. Moreover, it creates a smooth surface that is easy to clean and maintain over time.
Durable and Long-Lasting
Eggshell paint is known for its durability and long-lasting performance, even in high-traffic areas like bathrooms. It resists chipping, fading, and scuffing, which are common issues in a bathroom environment. With proper preparation and application, eggshell paint can hold up for many years without needing a touch-up.
Cons of Eggshell Paint for Bathroom
Not Suitable for High Moisture Areas
Although eggshell paint can handle moisture well, it is unsuitable for high-moisture areas like the shower. If you plan to paint your shower or bathtub area, eggshell paint may not protect against moisture.
Pros and Cons of Satin Paint
Satin paint is a durable, versatile finish with subtle sheen and soft luster. It has a glossier appearance than eggshell paint but is flatter than semi-gloss paint.
Pros of Satin Paint for Bathroom
Resistant to moisture and mildew
One of the primary advantages of using satin paint for bathroom painting is that it is resistant to moisture and mildew. Satin paint has a higher gloss than eggshell finish, making it more resistant to water damage.
This is especially important in bathrooms, where there is a lot of moisture, steam, and humidity. The satin finish paint can help prevent mold and mildew growth, ensuring a clean and healthy environment.
Easy to clean
Satin paint is easy to clean. The smooth surface of satin paint does not hold dirt or grime, making it easy to wipe down with a damp cloth. This feature can be particularly beneficial in high-traffic bathrooms, where dirt and grime are more likely to accumulate.
Attractive Appearance
Satin paint has an attractive appearance that enhances the aesthetic value of the bathroom. This paint finish has a subtle gloss that adds depth and dimension to the walls, making the bathroom space more elegant.
Cons of Satin Paint for Bathroom
Higher Cost
Satin paint is an excellent option for bathroom painting, but it comes at a higher cost. This is because it has a more complex formulation and provides more benefits compared to other paint types. Thus, it might not be suitable for those on a tight budget.
Application Can be Tricky
Satin paint can be demanding to apply, especially for unskilled painters. It requires multiple coats, and one needs to be careful, or else it may result in uneven patches or streaks. Using the right applicator tools is crucial to avoid visible brush marks or roller marks on the paint.
Eggshell vs. Satin: Which Should You Choose?
If you’re trying to decide between eggshell and satin paint for your bathroom, there are a few things to consider. While eggshell has a softer and more subtle sheen, satin is known for its durability and high shine.
If you have a busy household with kids running in and out of the bathroom or simply looking for paint that will stand up to humidity and moisture, satin is the way to go.
It’s easy to clean and can withstand wear and tear. Its reflective nature can give your bathroom a bright, polished look.
However, eggshell might be a better choice if you’re painting a bathroom that doesn’t get a lot of traffic and want a more understated look. Its matte finish is perfect for a more subdued, elegant vibe.
Ultimately, the choice between eggshell and satin paint comes down to personal preference and the specific needs of your bathroom. Consider the amount of traffic your bathroom receives and the overall aesthetic you’re going for before making your decision.