Choosing a pain is about much more than just choosing a colour. The same paint colour can look completely different in a different paint job. When it comes to choosing an interior finish, homeowners often have to choose between eggshell paint and matte paint.
Which colour you choose ultimately determines the look of the room. Certain colours are also better suited to different types of rooms. We explain the differences between the two finishes and help you figure out which one is right for your next DIY project or professional renovation.
What is the Difference Between Matte and Eggshell Paint Finishes
Although matte and eggshell lacquer are on the same level in the spectrum of finishes, there are some subtle differences between the two. Recognizing these differences will help you choose between matte and eggshell paint.
Shine
In the paint world, gloss refers to how reflective the paint is when it dries. In other words, how “blank” it is. The names matte and eggshell colours hint at their shine.
Eggshell paint is slightly more reflective than matte paint and has a similar texture to real eggshell when dry. Eggshell gloss can potentially add greater visual depth to a room than the flatter matte finish.
The matte gloss doesn’t reflect light as much as an eggshell or an even shinier finish. They can absorb light! Because of this feature, matte paint is an excellent option for hiding minor imperfections on the wall or piece of furniture you are painting.
Durability
Even indoors, there are a lot of things that can affect a painting job over the years. Excessive moisture, dirt, and anything that hits a wall can cause the paint to chip or flake.
Although both carpet and eggshell dyes are long-lasting, eggshell dyes are generally the more durable and washable of the two options. If you are looking for a colour that can withstand frequent washing and minor stains, eggshell colour is a better choice.
Imperfections
The task of the paint is to give the walls, ceiling, or floor a beautiful appearance. This can also mean hiding imperfections, and some colours do this better than others.
Because of its light, light-reflecting sheen, eggshell paint often shows more cracks, pits, and other imperfections in the wall.
Matte paint, with its flat surface, often hides these flaws due to its low light reflection. Matte paint is a great option for any area of your home that is a little less than perfect.
Aesthetics
Eggshell colours often add depth and warmth to a room. The slightly light-reflecting properties also contribute to creating a cosy atmosphere.
Matt’s finish often creates a modern, minimalist look. They also absorb light and make colours look more even.
Planning the intended mood of the room you are painting can be helpful when trying to decide between the aesthetic choice of eggshell and matte paint. In this regard, it is completely up to you and your visual preferences!
Matte Vs. Eggshell Paint for a Bathroom
Because of their higher gloss and durability, eggshell paints are usually easier to clean. This makes them perfect for heavily trafficked areas that are sensitive to moisture, grease, and dirt.
Kitchen and bathroom walls are popular candidates for durable eggshell paint. It’s also a popular choice for painting trim and mouldings because it stands out while resisting scratches from passing feet, bumps, and scrapes.
Matte Vs. Eggshell Paint for a Living Room
Living spaces are less exposed to moisture, making the long-term durability of eggshell paint less necessary. The same requirements apply to other rooms in your home, including bedrooms and offices.
We often spend long moments in these rooms and therefore have enough time to look at the walls. This makes the carpet paint’s ability to hide imperfections well-suited for these high-traffic areas.
Which is better: Eggshell or Matte paint?
While both eggshell paints and matte paints are quite durable, eggshell paint is by far the better choice. Therefore, it is a better choice for baseboards, borders, and mouldings. It is also washable and has good stain resistance.
Can I use eggshells and flat paint outside?
Eggshell can be used on the exterior of your home and is a popular choice for refreshing HardiePlank, stucco, horizontal wood, and all exterior mouldings, doors, and frames. Matte, on the other hand, is not recommended for outdoor applications as it cannot withstand rain, snow, wind, sun, mould, or extreme temperatures.
Shop Matte and Eggshell Paints with NevisPaints
Here at Nevis Paints, we want you to have every colour option available for your next home project, whether you’re painting the walls or a piece of furniture.
When it comes to the eggshell vs. matte paint debate for your next home decor project, it comes down to the space and the type of project. Whether you choose our best-selling eggshell paint or our matte interior paint, both options provide exceptional coverage and dry to a hard, durable film that will keep your space looking fresh for years to come.
