Is flat or low sheen better for ceilings?

Author: Mrs. Angeline Heller  |  Last update: Saturday, May 10, 2025

Most ceiling paints have a flat (or matte) finish. A flat finish doesn't reflect lights and will hide most irregularities and defects in the ceiling. On the other hand, reflective sheens draw the eye upward and can detract from the rest of the room. Another benefit of a flat finish is that it doesn't scuff easily.

Should ceiling paint be flat or low sheen?

Flat paint is typically recommended for gyprock and fibro ceilings. Avoid flat paint in mould prone areas, woodwork or areas that will be regularly touched. The lower the sheen level the easier it is to hide imperfection. This is because flat paint reflects minimal light.

What sheen is best for ceilings?

A flat white is always the best paint finish for ceilings, as the non-reflective finish reduces glare from artificial lights overhead and the clean white helps reflect natural light around the room, making it feel brighter and more open.

Should ceiling paint be flat or matte?

The reason flat is recommended for ceilings is that the light shines off of them differently, and you'll notice every little imperfection with glossy paint. And the higher the gloss, the more you'll notice them.

Should I paint my ceiling flat or eggshell?

BUT, flat paint is recommended for ceilings and very low traffic areas for a reason. It's not as durable or easy to clean as eggshell or other higher sheen paints. So if you have pets or kids (or even husbands) that touch or bump into walls, flat paint will easily mar.

Which Paint Sheen to Use on Ceilings? Eggshell vs Flat Paint Sheen

Do designers use flat or eggshell paint?

Another reason why consumers and designers often favor using Eggshell or Satin paint is that they've had a bad experience with the “chalky” look that low-quality flat paints have after a few years.

What is the most popular white paint for ceilings?

Favorite whites for ceilings include White Dove OC-17, Cloud White OC-130 and Decorator's White OC-149.

When should you not use eggshell paint?

Avoid using eggshell paint in high-contact, high-traffic areas such as door and window trim, baseboards, cabinetry, and doors. It's best to use semi-gloss paint in these areas.

What paint finish do professional painters use?

Matte Paint

Regal® Select Interior Matte (N548) is a professional painter favorite for its ease of application and smooth feel after drying. Matte finish paint also withstands frequent washing, even when applied in busier areas like hallways and family rooms.

Should black ceilings be flat or gloss?

"It does not have to be a high-gloss paint; I like my ceilings in a flat paint unless we are looking for a dressier look. High gloss and the reflection give you a lot more light if it's a smaller space," says Burkle.

Is soft sheen good for ceilings?

Johnstone's Soft Sheen Emulsion paint provides a stylish subtle sheen finish that is long-lasting and perfect for use in any room. The low odour paint has been formulated to be quick-drying and easy to use. The soft sheen emulsion can be used as an interior wall and ceiling paint.

What sheen is best for house interior?

Eggshell is the most commonly used sheen for interior walls. It is a good middle ground, having enough sheen so that it is easily washable, but not too much to where any wall imperfection will stand out. The look of the eggshell finish is quite attractive for interior painting projects.

How many coats of paint on a ceiling?

How many coats of paint do I need? Generally, you will want a minimum of two coats of paint – this is a good rule of thumb for any wall or ceiling you're painting. You'll rarely get a seamless finish from just one coat of paint, and even if you do, coverage isn't the only goal when it comes to painting a room.

Why do people use flat paint on ceilings?

Most ceiling paints have a flat (or matte) finish. A flat finish doesn't reflect lights and will hide most irregularities and defects in the ceiling. On the other hand, reflective sheens draw the eye upward and can detract from the rest of the room.

What is the best sheen for ceiling paint?

However, as low gloss paints – flat or matte – reflect less light, they are much better at concealing imperfections in the surface of the ceiling, hence their popularity, especially in white which will lift a room and boost the feeling of space.

Should white ceiling paint be flat?

Probably the biggest reason to use flat paints on ceilings is that it does not draw attention. Flat paint does not reflect light, so it does not catch your eye. This allows the walls to be more of a focal point in your room. A side benefit to using flat paint on ceilings is that it hides flaws.

Should I paint my ceiling flat or matte?

Ceilings should almost always be painted in a flat, matte acrylic paint. The reason for this is that: Flat paint will not reflect light or draw attention away from the wall and room furnishings. Ceilings don't receive much wear and tear, so a glossy, durable paint is not necessary.

What paint gives the smoothest finish?

One of the most popular types of wall paint, eggshell finish provides a low sheen and a soft, smooth finish just like a true eggshell. Perfect for low- to mid-traffic areas like hallways, living rooms, entryways and family rooms.

Why do designers like flat paint?

You see, designers gravitate toward flat finishes for how stunning they make interiors appear. The rich flat texture makes colors appear deeper and truer than other finishes whose sheen reflects more light. Flat finishes also hide imperfections in walls far better than finishes with sheen.

Is eggshell or flat better for ceilings?

Flat paint is a great choice for ceilings due to its ability to hide imperfections and ease of touch-up. Meanwhile, eggshell finishes offer increased durability, richer colors, and a slight sheen which makes them an attractive option as well.

What is the problem with eggshell paint?

Eggshell paint offers a soft sheen that adds elegance and is more washable than flat paint, making it ideal for moderate-traffic areas. However, it shows imperfections more than matte finishes and lacks the durability of glossier options, so it may need more frequent touch-ups in high-traffic areas.

What looks better, flat or eggshell paint?

Eggshell sheen can potentially give a room a greater visual depth than the flatter matte finish. Matte sheens do not reflect light as much as an eggshell or even glossier finish. In fact, they can actually absorb light!

What is the ideal paint for ceiling?

You can use a wall emulsion to paint ceilings, all interior wall emulsions are technically suitable for ceilings too but for the best finish, a flat matt paint on a ceiling gives the best overall look. It helps to hide any uneven areas or surface imperfections that are often highlighted by the light.

What is Sherwin Williams' most popular white color?

What is the Most Popular Sherwin Williams White Paint?
  • Best All Over White: Sherwin Williams Alabaster SW 7008.
  • Best Cool White: Sherwin Williams Pure White SW 7005.
  • Best Off White: Sherwin Williams Natural Choice SW 7011.
  • Best Modern White: Sherwin Williams Egret White SW 7570.

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