If you’re considering painting your ceilings, you might wonder which type of finish to use. Flat and eggshell are two of the most commonly used finishes for ceilings. But which is best?
Flat paint is often used for ceilings because it doesn’t reflect light much like eggshell does. This can be beneficial for ceilings with imperfections, as it will help to hide them. Flat paint also provides a smoother, more uniform appearance on the ceiling.
In this article, you will learn the following:
- The 4 factors to consider when choosing a paint finish
- The pros and cons of flat paint
- The pros and cons of eggshell paint
- How to decide between flat and eggshell paint
The 4 Factors to Consider When Choosing a Paint Finish for Ceilings
1. Lighting
The lighting in your room, both natural and artificial, plays a key role in determining the type of paint finish you should choose.
If your room is naturally lit during the day, flat paint may be a better option as it can help to reduce glare. On the other hand, eggshell paint reflects light and can make rooms appear brighter, making it ideal for dark or artificially lit spaces.
2. Texture
The texture of your ceiling is also a critical factor to consider when choosing a paint finish. If your ceiling has noticeable bumps, cracks, or other imperfections, an eggshell finish will only emphasize them. A flat finish helps mask these imperfections and makes your ceiling look smoother.
3. Room Function
One of the most critical factors is the type of room you are painting. For instance, a high-traffic area such as a kitchen or bathroom will require a highly durable finish resistant to moisture and stains.
Flat finishes are great for hiding imperfections but may not be as durable as glossier finishes like eggshell. Gloss finishes provide the necessary durability in high-traffic areas while reflecting light for a brighter space.
4. Style
The room’s overall style should also be considered when choosing a paint finish. A flat finish can create a sleek, minimalist look for modern or contemporary spaces, while an eggshell finish can add drama and visual interest to more traditional spaces.
Pros and Cons of Flat Paint
Flat paint, also known as matte paint, is a type of paint that has a non-reflective, flat finish. It has a low level of sheen, which means it does not reflect light as much as other types of paint.
Flat paint is made with high levels of pigment and a lower binder, making it less durable and more forgiving for hiding imperfections.
Pros of Using Flat Paint on Ceilings
Using flat paint on your ceiling has several benefits. First, it masks surface imperfections and flaws, which is especially important because ceilings often have more imperfections than walls.
Flat paint also absorbs light rather than reflecting it, which can help reduce glare and create a more cohesive look. Flat paint is often less expensive than other types of paint, making it a budget-friendly option.
Cons of Using Flat Paint on Ceilings
While flat paint is a great option for ceilings, some drawbacks exist. Because it has no sheen, it is not resistant to moisture or stains. This means it is not a good choice for rooms with high humidity, such as bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry rooms.
Pros and Cons of Eggshell Paint
As its name implies, this finish is designed to have the same texture and shine as an eggshell. It is one of the most versatile finishes, providing a low-sheen texture that isn’t too reflective or dull.
Pros of Using Eggshell Paint for Ceilings
When it comes to painting the ceiling, choosing the right type of paint can be a challenging task. However, eggshell paint is an excellent choice for ceilings due to its numerous benefits.
Eggshell paint is easy to maintain and clean compared to other sheen types. It is more durable and resistant to stains and scuffs.
All you need is a damp sponge or cloth to wipe off any dirt or grime. It also reflects light in a subtle way that can enhance the lighting in your room. It provides a soft ambiance that makes the room feel cozier and inviting.
Eggshell paint is versatile, which means it can fit any room style or color scheme. It works well in a variety of room types, including bedrooms, living rooms, dining rooms, and kitchens.
Finally, eggshell paint holds up pretty well over time. It doesn’t fade, peel, or crack easily, making it an excellent investment for homeowners.
Cons of Using Eggshell Paint for Ceilings
While eggshell paint for ceilings has many great benefits, it has drawbacks. Eggshell paint is not as durable as other glossier types of paint. This means that it may not hold up as well to wear and tear, particularly in high-traffic areas.
Another concern with eggshell paint is that it is not suitable for use in high-moisture areas such as bathrooms and kitchens. In these cases, choosing a moisture-resistant paint is best to avoid any long-term issues.
Flat vs. Eggshell: Which Should You Choose?
When painting ceilings, one of the key decisions you’ll need to make is choosing the right finish.
Flat paint has a velvety, matte finish that covers imperfections and creates a uniform look on ceilings. This type of paint is easy to apply and provides excellent coverage, making it ideal for larger ceiling projects.
On the other hand, eggshell paint has a slight sheen that can help brighten up a room and create a more polished look. While it’s not as forgiving as flat paint when hiding flaws, it’s easier to clean and more durable in the long run.
If you have a lot of imperfections on your ceiling or simply want a more understated look, flat paint may be the best choice. On the other hand, eggshell can be a great option if you want to add some shine to your ceiling.
Ultimately, the choice between flat and eggshell paint comes down to the look you’re trying to achieve and the factors most important to you.
By carefully considering the pros and cons of each option, you can make an informed decision and create a beautiful, polished ceiling that perfectly complements your space.