What Is Satin Paint?

The term "satin" paint refers to one popular kind of paint finish. This finish is often used in rooms and exterior areas where some durability is needed, but high-gloss paint is not desired.

Features

Satin is medium-gloss, which means it reflects light slightly but not as much as high-gloss finishes.

Types

Satin paint comes as either a latex/acrylic or oil-based paint. It can be either an exterior or interior paint finish.

Uses

This paint is sometimes used as wall paint for bedrooms, family rooms, living rooms and dens. It can also be used for bathrooms and kitchens. As an exterior paint, it is suitable for painting wood or aluminum siding.

Benefits

Satin-finish paint, because it is smooth and slightly glossy, is much easier to keep clean than a matte finish. In addition, it is just as easy to apply as matte paint.

Drawbacks

Satin-finish paint can lose luster over time. In addition, although satin paint is somewhat durable and resistant to stains, it is not as durable or stain resistant as high-gloss paint.