Is Sherwin Williams matte the same as flat?

Author: Nicolas Wuckert  |  Last update: Thursday, July 10, 2025

Flat paints, also known as matte paints, are a valuable design tool when used correctly. Because they are non-reflective, they tend to conceal surface blemishes better than paints with more sheen. In a visual sense, these finishes effectively "smooth" walls that are dented or rough.

Is matte the same as flat paint?

The visual characteristics of matte and flat paint finishes are quite distinct. Matte paints have a low-gloss finish and contain more pigment, giving them a richer color than flat paints. On the other hand, flat paints have a chalky texture with minimal light reflection.

Is Sherwin Williams matte the same as eggshell?

Eggshell paint is slightly more reflective than matte paint, with a texture similar to an actual eggshell once dried. 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.

What sheen is closest to flat?

Matte gives an almost-flat appearance to walls, with a very low-lustre, luxe finish. The matte finish provides added scrubbability over a flat finish, but less so than an eggshell or pearl paint. This is my personal favourite sheen for walls.

What paint is closest to matte?

Eggshell finish, perennially popular with professional and DIY painters alike, has a low-sheen reminiscent of flat or matte, but it is infinitely more durable than its namesake.

Best Sherwin Williams Wall Paint | Duration Matte

Is Sherwin Williams flat the same as Matte?

Flat paint is similar to matte in that it offers a completely non-reflective surface. While it provides excellent coverage and a rich color, flat paint can be more challenging to maintain, as it is prone to scuffs and stains. Use it in areas like: Adult bedrooms.

Does Sherwin Williams have a matte finish?

Sherwin Williams® Matte Clearcoat. Premium matte clearcoat to achieve the required gloss level to match any OEM low gloss and semi-gloss finish.

What sheens does Sherwin Williams have?

Paint sheen- Your Guide to Sherwin Williams Paint Sheens for your...
  • Flat Finish: For Walls That Need to Breathe.
  • Eggshell: The Perfect Middle Ground.
  • Satin: The Go-To for Busy Households.
  • Semi-Gloss: For Shiny, Easy-to-Clean Surfaces.
  • Gloss: For the Bold and Beautiful.

Can you mix flat and matte paint?

Yes, but it is not recommended to mix two different sheens of paint. Doing so without professional help can create an uneven finish and could result in a poor-looking job.

What sheen do professional painters use?

Eggshell is the most commonly used sheen for interior walls.

Which is better, matte or eggshell paint?

'Eggshell paint has a higher sheen level than matte paint,' says James Greenwood, paint and wallpaper expert at Graham & Brown, 'making it better for baseboards and doors whereas matte has less sheen and is thus better for walls.

Is Sherwin Williams matte paint washable?

Whether you're looking for a flat, matte, eggshell, satin, or semi-gloss finish, Sherwin Williams has you covered. Many of their interior paint products are formulated with washability in mind, making them ideal for busy households and commercial spaces alike.

Is Sherwin Williams cashmere the same as eggshell?

Cashmere Low Luster – has a very durable finish. It feels like a hard shell, like a semi-gloss but has the sheen of an eggshell.

Do designers use flat or eggshell paint?

Eggshell is always an interior designer's preferred paint finish, which is why we chose this as our ultimate finish for walls. The name eggshell stems from the fact the finish appears mostly flat with just a touch of luster... similar to a chicken egg!

Should you use matte paint on walls?

Are Matte Paint Good For Walls? Matt finish paint is great for walls because it makes them look smooth and elegant. The material absorbs light instead of reflecting it so it can be used in high-traffic areas like kitchens and hallways. Matte or Matt paint is ideal for guest bedrooms, living rooms, and dining rooms.

What is the disadvantage of flat paint?

However, flat finishes are not very durable and need to be carefully cleaned. Scrubbing flat paint could wear down the finish and cause sheen to appear in patchy spots. Best places to use flat paint: Ceilings (which tend to have flaws), accent walls, and low-traffic rooms that don't need frequent cleaning.

What is better, eggshell or satin?

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.

Can you paint over matt paint with soft sheen?

Yes, you can paint silk over the top of a matt emulsion, as you can with any water-based paints.

Does matte paint dry lighter or darker?

On the contrary, paints with a matte or flat finish absorb more light, hence they may look lighter after drying. As for paints with satin finish, they may dry darker after they are fully cured.

Is matte the same as flat?

Depending on the brand, flat paints may have no gloss at all. Typically, the amount of gloss in the average can of flat paint is between 0-5%. Matte paints almost always have a higher glossiness, typically between 5-10%.

What is the difference between Sherwin-Williams matte and satin?

A satin finish is a medium gloss sheen that's shinier than matte but not as shiny as semi-gloss paint. Likewise, satin offers slightly more luster or light reflectiveness than eggshell finishes. Concurrently, satin works perfectly on smooth walls in higher-traffic areas like hallways, family rooms, and kids' rooms.

What is the most forgiving paint sheen?

Flat paint is the most forgiving finish with the best color payout. If you need to cover imperfections, patching or joints, flat paint can absorb light, making your dings and flaws less noticeable. The draw back to a flat finish is the lack of durability.

Is Sherwin-Williams matte like eggshell?

Like a matte finish, eggshell covers marks well, and any imperfections from the application will not stand out so much. This finish is more durable and easier to clean than a matte, but definitely not as easy as satin or a gloss.

What are the cons of matte finish?

Disadvantages of Matte Paint: Less Durable: Matte paint is more susceptible to damage and wear compared to glossier finishes. It is prone to scuffing, staining, and marks from cleaning, making it less suitable for high-traffic areas or areas prone to moisture and humidity, such as kitchens and bathrooms.

Which paint gives matte finish?

Bumpless walls for a smooth look and luxurious feel, Royale Matt Luxury Emulsion gives the perfect matt finish to your walls. It's the only washable matt paint emulsion in India equipped with Teflon surface protector that makes it very durable.

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