When choosing the right paint for your home interior, there are two important factors: Colour and Finish. Colour is chosen with your eye for style and a palette of hues that look good together. Finish, however, should be chosen based on where you are painting, the amount of shine you desire, and the durability you need.
The number one finish for interior home painting is "Eggshell". You have no doubt heard of eggshell paint and come across listings for eggshell paint as you dive into your selection of paint colours. But what exactly is "eggshell" and how does it compare to other types of paint?
We're about to spill the paint and tell you everything you need to know.
What is eggshell paint?
Eggshell paint is the most popular finish when it comes to interior paint. It is the perfect balance between elegance and durability. But what does it really mean?
The term "eggshell" refers to how the finish looks. It is soft, but has just a touch of shine. It is often used on walls of high-traffic rooms like the living room, hallways, and children's bedrooms. It can be easily washed and repaired, and provides a vibrant colour for your favourite shades.
Eggshell finish paint:
- Has a soft texture with a minimal amount of reflective shine
- Is durable and long-lasting
- Typically looks best with primer and two coats of paint
- Can be washed with a damp cloth
- Is easy to repair if scuffed or chipped
- Shows colours vibrantly
Eggshell vs matt and satin paint
There are four standard types of paint finish to choose from for your home, and they progress in this order:
- Matt
- Eggshell
- Satin
- Glossy
When determining the texture of eggshell, you can locate it between matt and satin.
Matt paint has no shine at all. It is velvety and soft, with the greatest concentration of pigment and the richest colour. However, it is also the most delicate and difficult to wash or repair if damaged.
Eggshell paint has a slight amount of gloss, just enough that it is more durable. It reflects a small amount of light but still has a rich concentration of pigment without appearing glossy.
Satin paint has a little more gloss, which gives it a more waterproof finish that is durable in moist environments and is much safer to scrub with a sponge compared to eggshell or matt paint.
Glossy paint (and semi-gloss just before it) have a distinct reflective shine, and are the most durable and washable paints, but with the lowest pigment requiring primer and several coats for good presentation.
What is the difference between eggshell and matt paint?
Matt paint has no shine and is very delicate. It is soft paint with a rich colour. Eggshell paint has a small amount of shine and is much more durable in comparison.
What should matt paint be used for?
Matt paint should be used in elegant, low-traffic spaces like a formal dining room or adult bedroom. It is not ideal for moist or high-traffic spaces where the paint could be easily damaged.
What is the difference between eggshell & emulsion?
Emulsion paint is similar or the same as matt paint. It is a high-pigment, no-gloss paint formula ideal for elegant low-traffic spaces. Eggshell paint is more durable and a little bit shinier, ideal for trim, molding, doors, and walls in high-traffic, low-moisture rooms.
What is the difference between eggshell and satin paint?
Satin paint has more gloss than eggshell and is safer to use in moist and messy areas like the kitchen or bathroom. Satin is a little more light-reflective and slightly less rich in pigment.
Is eggshell paint washable?
Yes. Eggshell paint can be washed if there is a spill or scuff. You can gently use a cloth or the soft side of a damp sponge to wipe scuffs and spills off of eggshell paint. It can also be thoroughly dusted with a damp cloth without damage. However, do not use harsh chemicals or a scrubbing surface on eggshell paint, or it may wear away.
Can eggshell be used on radiators?
Yes, eggshell paint is a common choice for radiators. It is durable without being glossy, which makes it a good choice when painting the radiator in your home or business. In fact, each of the popular paint finishes is commonly used on radiators, and you can choose for yourself based on what type of room your radiator is located in.
Can eggshell paint be used on wood?
Yes, eggshell is the popular choice for wood trim around doors, windows, and cabinetry because it is both durable and rich in colour. Eggshell paint is often used for the most common and high-traffic areas of the home, and you do not always need a primer. You can also use eggshell paint when refinishing wood furniture.
Discover gorgeous eggshell paint colours for yourself
If you are looking for the perfect paint palette to redecorate your home, check out the durable yet elegant eggshell paint selection with La Redoute. We are delighted to bring beauty and style to each and every home.
