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Sheen On

Color options run the gamut, but there are typically just four to five finishes to choose from within every paint manufacturers' line. And while each brand refers to their finishes differently, the distinguishing factors are essentially the same — luster and washability.
In general, paint finishes range from completely "flat" or matte to shiny or "high-gloss." Glossier finishes contain higher levels of resin and lower levels of pigmentation, whereas less shiny ones contain more pigment than resin.
"Selecting the ideal sheen involves both aesthetic and practical considerations," says Aimee Desrosiers, Director of Marketing for Behr. "From an aesthetic standpoint, sheen creates visual interest and from a practical standpoint, the right sheen can help extend the life of the paint job," she says. Image courtesy of Behr