The Differences Between Matte vs. Flat Finishes

Looking to start your next paint project but aren’t sure which paint finish you should use? Matte and flat paint finishes may seem interchangeable, but the reality is that they work well in different situations. Below, we’ll cover the differences between these two types of paint finish and their uses for your home. 

If you’re looking for professional painters in your area, call us today at 609-702-8200 for a free estimate. 

What a Flat Finish Is

Flat paint is a type of paint with no shine, which means it reflects a minimal amount of light. There is typically a very small amount of gloss in the paint, or none at all. 

Advantages of Flat Paint

If your walls aren’t smooth, have noticeable imperfections or irregularities, flat paint works great for hiding these flaws. Since a very small amount of light reflects off of this paint, these imperfections won’t be noticeable. It’s also a great choice for blending with other paints and is very easy to touch up if needed. 

What a Matte Finish Is

Matte finishes, also called velvet, are a low gloss paint option that adds a luxurious feel to any room in your home. Matte finishes tend to have low or medium gloss, but they usually have more gloss than flat paint. Depending on the brand you purchase, matte paints can be mildew resistant, more durable, and retain their color better than flat paints.  

Matte paint is a great cost-effective option for painting any room too. 

Advantages of Matte Paint

Matte paints are great for larger paint projects since you usually need fewer coats to achieve an even finish. These paints have more pigments in them, which makes their color saturate much easier, which also means you need to buy less paint. While they do have more gloss than a flat paint, these paints are still a good choice for covering up imperfections. 

Matte vs Flat Paints

Glossiness

Depending on the brand, flat paints may have no gloss at all. Typically, the amount of gloss in the average can of flat paint is between 0-5%. Matte paints almost always have a higher glossiness, typically between 5-10%. 

Best Locations

Flat paint is best for areas that won’t get too dirty since it’s difficult to clean properly. Matte paints are great for bedrooms, dining rooms, and bathrooms. Depending on the brand of paint you buy, matte paints can also be mildew resistant and easier to clean. 

Scrubbability

While these two paint types may seem similar, they are very different when it comes to cleaning them. Matte paints are much easier to clean compared to flat paints, which cannot be scrubbed clean. Scrubbing a flat painted wall can alter the appearance of the finish and make it appear patchy. 

Cover Ups

Both paints are great for covering up any imperfections in your wall. Compared to other types of paint, matte and flat paint both have relatively low gloss. That means even when light shines on your walls, the imperfections or unsmooth wall won’t be very noticeable. 

Which is Better: Matte or Flat Paint?

No one paint is better than the other; rather, matte and flat paint work well in different scenarios. Depending on the location, your timeframe, and your goals determine which is best for you. If you’re pressed for time and want to paint your walls in as few coats as possible, we recommend using matte paints. Ultimately, both are effective options for ceilings and covering up imperfections. 

Summary of Matte vs Flat Paint Finishes

While on the surface, these paints may seem interchangeable, the truth is that these paints are best in their own scenarios. If you’re looking to hide your home’s imperfections with paint, you can’t go wrong with either option. However, if you’re looking to paint a high traffic area, like a kitchen or hallway, we recommend using matte paints since they’re easier to clean. 

If you’re not sure which paint is best for your next paint project, Pizzazz Painting can help you with our free color consultation that comes with our professional painting services. Call us today at 609-702-8200 for a free in-home consultation.

What is the difference between Matte and Flat paint? I never paid much mind to anything but eggshell, but now that I am shopping for paint I am intrigued with what my other options are. I need something that could be washable along a hallway and light switches, doorways, etc., but I do not want shiny.