Which Finish Should You Choose for Woodwork? A Straightforward Guide That Saves You Stress
If you’ve ever looked at a freshly painted door frame and wondered why it looks glossy, flat, or somewhere in between – it’s not just about colour. It’s about the finish. And when it comes to wood, the finish really matters.
Satin, eggshell, matt, semi-gloss, high-gloss – they all sound fine, but which one actually suits your home? And more importantly… why?
Let me walk you through how I approach this, after many years of working with timber across Irish homes – from lively doors to stubborn skirting boards that never sit quite right.
1. What does “finish” actually mean?
Finish refers to how paint reflects light. It’s the final texture and look – glossy, satin, matt, or something in between. But it’s not just about looks – finish also affects durability, maintenance, and the overall feel of the space.
2. Matt – Looks great, but not always practical
Matt on wood is like a fine wool suit. It looks brilliant – but you wear it when you’re sure it won’t get dirty.
Hides imperfections, gives a refined, elegant touch
Marks easily, not ideal for frequent cleaning
Best used in low-traffic areas or spaces where the look is the main priority
3. Satin – the all-rounder
If I had to pick one finish that fits almost everywhere, I’d go with satin. It reflects light gently, it’s not shiny, but it’s not dull either.
Easy to clean, durable
Offers a modern, warm look
Ideal for: window frames, skirting boards, architraves, bathrooms and kitchens
4. Eggshell – understated with style
Eggshell is a quiet hero. It sits somewhere between matt and satin, offering a soft, almost chalky finish.
Smooth texture, subtle appearance
Great for calm, cosy spaces (bedrooms, hallways)
Often confused with satin – it’s worth testing a sample first
5. Gloss – only when you really want shine
Very durable, extremely easy to clean
Shows every imperfection – not forgiving
Sometimes used in commercial spaces or bold design statements
6. So… how do you decide?
Here’s what I tell every client I work with:
Don’t choose with just your eyes. Choose with your lifestyle. Got kids running around, leaving fingerprints everywhere? Satin is your friend. Want a calm, muted look? Eggshell works beautifully. Have an old period house and want to stay true to its original charm? A soft matt might just do it.
And when in doubt – ask for a tester pot. There’s no shame in trying a small patch on a hidden skirting board before committing.
7. What we use most – and why
we work with high-coverage paints that suit the real rhythm of each home. Most of the time, satin is our go-to finish for modern homes in Ireland – it balances practicality and style without drawing too much attention.
But every house has its own personality. And more often than not, the question isn’t “what’s the best finish?”, but rather:
What suits how you live?
You don’t have to become a paint expert. But if you understand a little about finishes, you’ll make a choice that keeps you happy for years to come.
And if you’re unsure, ask someone who’s not trying to sell you a tin of paint – just someone who genuinely respects your home.
Providing a Professional Painting services in Dublin and Surrounding Counties
Providing a Professional Painting services in Dublin and Surrounding Counties
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