Hey, it’s Joe here. I’ll be your guide through the world of eggshell finish. Let me tell you a funny story.
So, I recently decided to paint my living room and I wanted to go for a “sophisticated” look. I asked my friend, who’s a professional painter, for advice and he recommended eggshell finish. I was like “sure, why not?”
So, I got the paint and started rolling it on the walls.
The first thing I noticed was how smooth and even the finish looked. I was like “Wow, this is looking pretty good”. But then I looked closer and realized…
I had painted my entire living room with the wrong color! I was so focused on the finish that I didn’t pay attention to the color. Long story short, I had to repaint the whole room. So, my advice to you is to pay attention to the color too, not just the finish.
But, on the bright side, I now have a great understanding of eggshell finish and I’m excited to share it with you.
Eggshell finish is a type of paint finish that is characterized by its low-sheen and smooth surface.
It is perfect for creating a sophisticated and elegant look in low-traffic areas such as bedrooms, dining rooms, and more.
Table of Contents
Best Use Cases for Eggshell Finish
Low-traffic areas
Eggshell finish is perfect for rooms that don’t see a lot of foot traffic. You know, those rooms where you just sit and chill, like bedrooms and dining rooms.
Ceilings
Eggshell finish is also great for ceilings. It will give you a smooth and even finish, without being too glossy.
Cabinets and furniture
Eggshell finish is a great choice for painting cabinets and furniture. It will give them a nice, elegant look and will be easy to clean.
Trim and molding
Eggshell finish is also great for trim and molding. It will give them a nice, smooth finish and will be easy to clean.
Advantages of Eggshell Finish
Durability
Eggshell finish is durable and can withstand everyday wear and tear.
Easy to clean
Eggshell finish is easy to clean and maintain. You can wipe it down with a damp cloth and it’ll look like new.
Less reflective than glossier finishes
Eggshell finish is less reflective than glossier finishes, which makes it perfect for rooms that get a lot of natural light.
Variety of color options
Eggshell finish comes in a variety of colors, so you can choose the perfect color for your space.
How to Apply Eggshell Finish
Preparing the surface
Before applying the eggshell finish, it’s important to prepare the surface by cleaning it thoroughly and making any necessary repairs.
This will ensure that the paint adheres properly and provides an even finish.
Choosing the right paint
Make sure to choose a paint specifically formulated for eggshell finish, as this will ensure that you get the desired level of sheen and durability.
Proper application technique
When applying the paint, use a high-quality paint roller or brush, and make sure to apply it in thin, even coats.
Let each coat dry completely before applying the next one.
Drying and curing time
Eggshell finish typically takes around 24 hours to dry and 7 days to cure completely. It is important to not use the painted area before it is completely cured.
Comparison with other paint finishes
Gloss
Gloss finish is the most shiny and reflective of the paint finishes, it’s great for high-traffic areas, but it can show any imperfections on the surface.
Satin
Satin finish is less shiny than gloss finish, but it’s still reflective. It’s great for high-traffic areas, and it’s easy to clean.
Matte
Matte finish is the least shiny and reflective of the paint finishes, it’s perfect for low-traffic areas, but it can be harder to clean.
How to choose the right finish for specific surfaces and rooms
It’s important to choose the right finish for the specific surface and room. For example, a high-gloss finish is great for a kitchen or bathroom because it’s easy to clean and can withstand moisture.
But a matte finish would be better for a bedroom or living room because it’s less reflective and creates a more relaxing atmosphere.
Maintenance and Care
How to clean and maintain eggshell finish
To keep your eggshell finish looking like new, it’s important to clean it regularly with a mild detergent and water.
Avoid using abrasive cleaning products or scrub brushes, as these can damage the finish.
Tips for touch-ups and repairs
If there are any small damages or scuffs on your eggshell finish, it’s easy to touch-up with a small paintbrush and paint specifically formulated for eggshell finish.
Recommended cleaning products
To clean your eggshell finish, use mild detergent and water or a specific cleaner for painted surfaces.
How often to repaint with eggshell finish
Depending on the amount of traffic and wear and tear, eggshell finish typically needs to be repainted every 3-5 years.
FAQ
Can eggshell finish be used on walls?
Yes, eggshell finish is perfect for walls in low-traffic areas such as bedrooms and dining rooms.
Is eggshell finish durable?
Yes, eggshell finish is durable and can withstand everyday wear and tear.
Can eggshell finish be used on wood surfaces?
Yes, eggshell finish is perfect for wood surfaces such as cabinets and furniture.
Is eggshell finish easy to clean?
Yes, eggshell finish is easy to clean and maintain. You can wipe it down with a damp cloth and it’ll look like new.
My Conclusion
In short, eggshell finish is a great option for creating a sophisticated and elegant look in low-traffic areas such as bedrooms, dining rooms, and more.
It’s durable, easy to clean, and less reflective than glossier finishes. When applying the paint, make sure to prepare the surface properly, choose the right paint, and apply it with the proper technique.
And remember, don’t forget the color too!
For more information or if you’re thinking of hiring a professional painter, don’t hesitate to reach out to your local painting contractor or check out some online resources for additional information on the topic of eggshell finish.