Paint Sheens
Paint & Surface Prep · 6 specs
Direct Answer
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).
Source: Master Painters Institute (MPI) / ASTM D523 (Specular Gloss) · Last reviewed Aug 28, 2026
Specs
| Governing Standards | MPI Architectural Painting Standards / ASTM D523 (Gloss at 60° and 85°) |
| 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 |
Architectural Paint Sheen & Room Matrix
| Sheen Classification | Specular Gloss Level | Durability / Scrubbability | Light Reflectivity | Ideal Room & Surface Match |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Flat / Matte | 0% – 5% | Low (non-washable) | Non-reflective | Ceilings, low-traffic guest bedrooms, textured drywall |
| Eggshell | 10% – 25% | Medium (gently wipeable) | Soft subtle sheen | Living rooms, dining rooms, master bedrooms |
| Satin | 25% – 35% | High (scrubbable) | Warm pearl luster | Hallways, kids' bedrooms, playrooms, laundry rooms |
| Semi-Gloss | 35% – 70% | Very High (stain resistant) | Sleek reflective | Kitchens, bathrooms, baseboards, door trim, molding |
| High Gloss | 70% – 90%+ | Extreme (hard durable shell) | Mirror-like shine | Front doors, kitchen cabinetry, metal railings, furniture |