Not all Paint is Created Equal
During the course of many of the projects that DiPasquale Painting completes one thing that we continually run into is clients wanting to use a satin or eggshell finish when a flat or matte would be a better choice. What we find is that the primary misconception driving that choice is that flat or matte finish paint isn’t as durable and won’t hold up to the wear and tear that paints with a higher sheen will. Though it is true that as you go up in sheen you also gain some durability the advances in paint technology that are now available in the lower sheen paints make them a smart choice in many instances.
Though not necessarily a new technology washable and scrubable matte and flat paints have a number benefits. First and most importantly is that as you go down in sheen you also limit how much the natural imperfections in a surface show up. With higher sheen paints any nail pops, drywall seams or previous patches that were not done perfectly has a tendency to want to show up. These imperfections could have multiple layers of previously applied paint over them making them more difficult to sand and patch. By using a washable and scrubable matte or flat you get the benefit of a more forgiving finish while also getting the convenience of being able to remove stains and scuffs like you can with satins and semi glosses.
Another benefit is that many homes architecturally do not lend themselves to a higher sheen paint or a designer want’s to use a low sheen to provide an effect in a space and having available a durable low sheen paint can allow you to achieve that effect you are looking for.
In regard to available products we have had great success with the Duration Home and Emerald lines from Sherwin Williams. Though most major manufacturers have low sheen, washable paints available these two we have used extensively and can say from experience that they perform great.