Side-by-Side Comparison
Paint & Surface Prep
Paint Rollers & Brushes vs. Paint Sheens
Comparing 2 standards across 13 specifications. 13 key differences identified.
Comparing:
Paint Rollers & Brushes
Paint Sheens
Paint applicator standards classify roller nap thicknesses by surface texture: 1/4" for ultra-smooth cabinets, 3/8" for standard interior drywall, 1/2" for light texture, and 3/4" for rough brick and cinder block, paired with 2.0–2.5" angled sash brushes for cutting-in.
Architectural paint sheens standardize specular gloss reflectivity into Flat/Matte (0–5% gloss, ceilings/bedrooms), Eggshell (10–25%, living rooms), Satin (25–35%, hallways/kids rooms), Semi-Gloss (35–70%, trim/baths), and High-Gloss (70–90+%, cabinets/doors).
Specification Comparison Table
13 Parameters| Parameter / Spec | ||
|---|---|---|
|
Governing Standards
|
ABMA Paint Applicator Standards / ASTM D5068 | MPI Architectural Painting Standards / ASTM D523 (Gloss at 60° and 85°) |
|
1/4-Inch Nap (6 mm)
|
Ultra-smooth surfaces: metal doors, smooth cabinets, trim (Zero stipple) | — |
|
3/8-Inch Nap (10 mm)
|
Standard smooth interior drywall and ceilings (Universal benchmark) | — |
|
1/2-Inch Nap (13 mm)
|
Medium surfaces: orange peel textured drywall, acoustic ceilings, wood | — |
|
3/4-Inch Nap (19 mm)
|
Rough surfaces: knockdown texture, stucco, exterior wood siding | — |
|
1 to 1-1/4 Inch Nap
|
Extra rough: masonry, brick, cinder blocks, split-face stone | — |
|
Standard Roller Width
|
9 inches (22.9 cm) standard | 4-inch mini roller for trim/behind toilets | — |
|
Angled Sash Brush (2.5")
|
2.5 inches (6.4 cm) angled bristle | Universal standard for cutting-in edges | — |
|
Flat / Matte Sheen
|
— | 0–5% gloss at 60° (0–10% at 85°) | Maximum surface imperfection hiding | Ceilings |
|
Eggshell Sheen
|
— | 10–25% gloss at 60° | Soft low-luster washable finish | Living rooms, adult bedrooms |
|
Satin Sheen
|
— | 25–35% gloss at 60° | Velvety durable wipeability | Family rooms, hallways, foyers |
|
Semi-Gloss Sheen
|
— | 35–70% gloss at 60° | Moisture, mildew & scrub resistance | Kitchens, baths, baseboards |
|
High-Gloss Sheen
|
— | 70–90+% gloss at 60° | Ultra-reflective glass shine | Architectural trim, cabinets, doors |