When you’re staring at paint samples and trying to decide which sheen to go with, you’re not just picking a color—you’re choosing how your walls will feel, reflect light, and hold up over time.
Flat and matte finishes might seem like twins at first glance, but they have some essential differences that can make—or break—your painting project. So, let’s ensure you get this one right, shall we?
Flat paint is a champ when it comes to hiding flaws. Have a wall that’s seen better days? Flat paint can make dents, cracks, and imperfections nearly disappear. It’s got no shine—zilch, nada—so it doesn’t reflect light, which is why it’s so forgiving.
This type of paint is also prevalent for ceilings. Why? Ceilings tend to have a lot of surface imperfections, and no one wants to see shiny patches drawing attention to them. Flat paint keeps things subtle and clean-looking.
Here’s a quick insider secret: Builders often use flat paint to create a smooth, uniform look in new homes. But beware—it’s not the most durable option out there.
Matte paint, on the other hand, is like flat paint’s slightly more sophisticated cousin. It has just the tiniest bit of sheen—so minor that most people wouldn’t even notice.
This subtle difference means matte paint is more durable than flat paint. It can handle a gentle wipe-down without losing its finish, making it a better choice for walls in high-traffic areas like living rooms and bedrooms.
Think of matte paint as the best of both worlds: it hides imperfections almost as well as flat paint but gives you more flexibility when cleaning.
Let’s break this down in a way that’s as easy as pie.
As you can see, flat and matte aren’t worlds apart. But those little differences can significantly impact your paint’s longevity and happiness with the final look.
Flat paint works best in spaces where walls don’t take a beating. Think guest rooms, home offices, or any area where touch-ups aren’t frequent. Since flat paint can be a bit of a diva for cleaning, scrubbing it too hard can cause patches or streaks, so you’ll want to avoid it in places like hallways or kitchens.
Flat paint will save the day if you paint over walls with lots of dents, scratches, or uneven textures. It hides imperfections like a pro, giving your walls a smooth, polished look.
Matte paint is your go-to for places where you want a sophisticated, low-sheen finish but need a bit more durability. I often recommend it for spaces with moderate use, like bedrooms or living rooms. Got kids or pets? Matte paint is forgiving enough to handle an occasional spill or fingerprint (as long as you don’t scrub it too hard).
Matte paint also plays well with bolder colors, making it a favorite for accent walls. It gives depth and richness to your color choice without the glare of shinier finishes.
Choosing between them comes down to your priorities. Are you more concerned about hiding wall imperfections or having a finish that can handle some wear and tear?
If you’re still unsure, don’t hesitate to ask your painter (hey, that’s me!) for guidance. Sometimes, the room’s lighting, usage, or even the type of paint brand can make a difference in what you should pick.
Oh, and one more tip—always test a sample. Paint a small patch on your wall, let it dry, and see how it looks in your space. Trust me, this simple step can save you a lot of headaches down the line.
It’s easy to get lost in the details of painting. But now you’ve got the inside scoop on flat vs. matte paint straight from someone who’s been in the trenches (and by trenches, I mean ladders and drop cloths).
Remember: flat paint is your friend for hiding imperfections and keeping things subtle. Matte paint is better when durability is vital, but you still want that smooth, refined look.
And if all else fails, call a professional. At Liberty Painting, we’ve been helping homeowners make their walls beautiful for over 15 years. Whether tackling a single room or giving your entire home a facelift, we’re here to help you get it right.
Ready to transform your walls? Let’s get started!
