The most common and best
In my opinion, satin paint is the best finish for trim in most scenarios. It has perfect velvety finish, it's durable and easy to clean, and it's more forgiving than semi gloss. However! Semi-gloss would also be a great choice for trim!
Semi-gloss finish: This is the best finish for your trims such as baseboards, mouldings and even cabinets and doors.
Cons: May highlight surface imperfections more than eggshell paint due to its reflective quality. Not suitable for hiding blemishes and imperfections on walls, as the higher sheen can make them more noticeable. May require more coats than eggshell paint to achieve full coverage.
Only recommendation would be to avoid flat/matte finishes for trim. Even with matte walls, trim typically looks better with a glossier finish (satin or more). Helps the trim really pop and look pretty. this is just a recommendation, there are no ``rules'' for what to paint where!
The 50 Percent Rule
Generally, vertical trim elements such as door and window casings should be smaller and have less heft than baseboards. So I've found that a good rule of thumb for sizing window and door casings (or door trim sizes) is to keep them at about 50 percent of the height of the baseboard.
When to Use Satin Sheen for Your Exterior Paint. Satin finish paints, while not glossy, do have more of a sheen than flat finish paints. Because of the extra shine, satin sheen paints are perfect when you plan to use bright, vivid colors on your home exterior. The satin sheen will reflect light and make the colors pop.
The Disadvantages of Satin
Satin can be difficult to sew and work with because of its shiny, slippery texture. Satin can also snag, this because of the way the threads interlace, creating those longer runs in one direction.
Living room: Satin finishes are great for living rooms where you want to create a cozy and welcoming atmosphere. They provide a subtle sheen that adds warmth and depth to the walls without being too shiny.
This is because satin isn't a fabric, it's a type of weave. And these cheap satins are actually. made out of polyester.
What is the best paint to use on trim and baseboards? Because it dries quickly and is easy to clean, latex paint is a popular choice for trim and baseboards. It is also resistant to peeling and fading, allowing it to keep its appearance for an extended period of time.
Medium Lustre - This higher-gloss finish is perfect for doors and trim. We like this sheen for: Doors. Trim.
The most common and best sheen for interior trim is a satin or semi-gloss finish. Satin paint finishes have a medium sheen and are durable and easy to clean. Semi-gloss paint finishes have a higher sheen and stand out in a room. They are easy to clean and stand up to dirt, stains, mold, and mildew.
Oil/Alkyd. Good adhesion, excellent durability and stain resistance make Sherwin-Williams oil/alkyd-based paints excellent choices for trim in high-traffic rooms, such as kitchens and bathrooms.
Chalking occurs due to ultra violet (UV) radiation from sunlight interacting with the constituents within the paint film.
There are many different paints finishes available out there, but you can consider selecting finishes for wood trim from the main three paint finishes like High gloss, semi gloss, and satin. If you are willing to apply paint on a piece of wood trim, you can generally choose anyone from satin or semigloss.
Satin fabric has long been associated with luxury and elegance, making it the perfect choice for creating an expensive look. Whether you're attending a formal event or just want to elevate your everyday style, incorporating satin into your wardrobe can instantly add a touch of sophistication.
Best for: Family rooms, living rooms, bedrooms, and hallways. Satin, which is a little more hard-wearing than eggshell, works well in those rooms and also in kitchens, dining areas, children's bedrooms, and bathrooms. Many satin finishes are tough enough to use on trim as well.
Satin can also be machine-washed and generally requires a lot less intensive upkeep when it comes to maintenance. The most significant downsides of using satin are that it isn't a very durable material and tends to snag and pile, creating ripples in the fabric.
Bacteria and dirt will build up more slowly on silk or satin than on cotton, but you still need to wash it frequently. You don't want to be applying a fresh layer of skin irritants every time you go to sleep! For this reason, read the label carefully before deciding between silk or satin pillowcases.
Now that you understand the difference between satin and gloss finish, choose the right one for your exterior trim. Consider factors like trim location, home style, and personal preferences. For trim exposed to sunlight or moisture, use semi-gloss for durability and resistance. For a subtle look, choose satin.
Flat paint soaks up light and hides imperfections, while satin paint reflects light and may highlight them. Satin paint is best for smooth walls with no imperfections. Flat paint is best for bedrooms, offices, and calm spaces. Consider how you use the space and how frequently you clean the walls before deciding.
Of the two, satin is more durable and is slightly less likely to scuff or mark than eggshell and it's easier to clean when it does get marked. This makes it a better choice, especially for woodwork such as painting skirting boards, than eggshell for high traffic areas like hallways and living rooms.