The Painting and Remodeling Experts

Paint finish, gloss level, sheen and enamel are all similar ways of saying the same thing. These describe the smoothness and light reflectivity of the dry paint on a painted surface. There are approximately six sheen types and each has a name corresponding to its light reflective qualities. Sheens range from:

• flat or matte (no-gloss)
• eggshell
• satin finish
• low lustre
• semi-gloss
• high-gloss

Each sheen has different qualities and uses. For example, a flat paint is often used to give a room a velvety look or to cover uneven drywall or plaster. A semi-gloss finish is often used in bathrooms and kitchens since it is cleanable and has a strong, hard shine. Generally, the higher the sheen the easier the paint is to clean and maintain.
Traditionally, dry room walls and ceilings are painted in flat or eggshell and trim is painted in semi-gloss enamel. Wet rooms such as kitchens, bathrooms, and laundry rooms are painted in semi-gloss.

a. No. It is not recommended to use an interior-labeled paint on exterior surfaces. Interior paints are designed specifically for use on interior surfaces. Interior paints don’t have the flexibility, strength or UV protective elements to stand up to exterior conditions. If you use interior paint on your exterior, expect it to fail, get moldy, or peel quickly.
Do not use exterior paints for interior painting.

Exterior paints have flex and other chemical qualities that make them suitable for exterior use only. Exterior paints are engineered to flex with heat and cooling of temperature changes. They don’t get to do this on interiors and will crack and peel prematurely.

Use interior paints on interiors and use exterior paints for exteriors. There is a good reason why paints are labeled for interior or exterior use.