When painting the exterior of your home, choosing the right color is important, but the paint sheen can be just as crucial to achieving a beautiful, durable finish. The sheen, or gloss level, of the paint affects not only how the final color appears but also its durability, washability, and resistance to weather. Two common options for exterior projects are low sheen and flat finishes. Understanding the differences between these two types will help you choose the best option for your specific needs.
What is Paint Sheen?
Paint sheen refers to the level of light reflectivity, which influences how glossy or matte the paint appears once dry. Paint sheens range from high gloss to flat, with several levels in between. For exteriors, low sheen and flat finishes are often preferred for their subtle, elegant appearance and practicality.
Flat Sheen: Pros and Cons
What is Flat Sheen? Flat sheen is the least reflective type of paint, offering a completely matte finish with no shine. This type of sheen is often used to cover imperfections, as it doesn’t reflect light, making flaws less noticeable.
Pros of Flat Sheen for Exteriors
Hides Imperfections: Flat paint is excellent for covering imperfections like small cracks or uneven surfaces on walls. This is especially useful for older homes or rough surfaces, like brick and stucco.
Uniform Appearance: Because it doesn’t reflect light, flat sheen gives surfaces a uniform, consistent look that’s often preferred for larger surfaces.
Natural Look: Flat finishes provide a more natural, earthy look that works well for traditional and rustic styles, blending well with the environment.
Cons of Flat Sheen for Exteriors
Difficult to Clean: Flat paints aren’t as washable as other sheens. Dirt and stains can be harder to remove, making them a less ideal choice for surfaces that may need frequent cleaning.
Limited Protection: Flat paints offer less resistance to moisture and mildew (unless you use a high quality professional paint), which could lead to a shorter lifespan if used in humid or wet climates.
Low Sheen: Pros and Cons
What is Low Sheen? Low sheen paint has a slight gloss, giving it a subtle reflective quality. It’s a popular choice for exterior surfaces because it combines the aesthetic appeal of a matte finish with added durability.
Pros of Low Sheen for Exteriors
Enhanced Durability: Low sheen paints are more resistant to dirt, moisture, and mildew than flat paints, making them an excellent option for areas exposed to the elements.
Easier to Clean: With a slight gloss, low sheen finishes are easier to clean than flat paints. Dirt and grime can often be wiped off without leaving marks, making this a good option for high-contact areas like doors, trim, and windowsills.
Versatile Look: Low sheen provides a soft, classic finish that works well with a wide variety of architectural styles and materials, from wood to stucco to masonry.
Cons of Low Sheen for Exteriors
Slightly Reflective: Although low sheen paint is more subtle than high gloss, it still reflects a small amount of light, which can make surface imperfections more noticeable than with flat paint.
Higher Cost: Low sheen paints can be more expensive than flat paints, which might be a consideration for large projects or those on a budget.
When to Use Flat Sheen vs. Low Sheen on Exteriors
Choose Flat Sheen For:
Older or Imperfect Surfaces: Flat paint’s ability to hide flaws makes it ideal for older buildings or uneven surfaces.
Traditional or Rustic Style Homes: The soft, natural look of flat paint complements more traditional or rustic designs.
Low-Traffic Areas: For surfaces that don’t require frequent washing or aren’t frequently touched, flat sheen provides a cost-effective and visually appealing solution.
Choose Low Sheen For:
Areas with High Exposure: If the surface is exposed to the elements or needs frequent cleaning, such as around entryways or in dusty climates, low sheen is a better choice for durability.
Modern and Contemporary Styles: Low sheen’s subtle gloss can complement modern architecture by giving a clean and sophisticated appearance.
Homes in Sunny or Humid Regions: Low sheen’s UV resistance and washability make it ideal for areas that experience strong sun or high humidity.
Conclusion
Choosing between flat and low sheen paint for your exterior project ultimately depends on your priorities, whether you’re looking for durability, easy maintenance, or a specific aesthetic. While flat sheen is excellent for hiding imperfections and giving a soft, natural look, low sheen provides added durability and washability, making it ideal for exposed areas. For advice tailored to your specific project, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at Quality Wise Painting. We’re here to help you make the best choice for a beautiful, long-lasting finish! Our service areas cover the great communities of Modesto, Ceres, Salida, Manteca, Keyes, Turlock, Delhi, Denair, Hughson, Empire, Waterford, Riverbank, Oakdale, Escalon, Lathrop, French Camp, and Ripon. We take pride in serving these areas with high-quality workmanship and outstanding customer service.
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