When choosing paint finishes, the terms “flat” and “matte” are often used interchangeably, leading to confusion. While both offer a low-sheen appearance, they are distinct categories with different performance characteristics that can significantly impact the look and durability of your walls.

What is flat paint? (no sheen, high pigment)

• Sheen Level: Flat paint has the lowest possible sheen level, appearing almost entirely non-reflective. It absorbs light rather than reflecting it.
• Composition: It typically has the highest pigment volume concentration and the lowest binder content among all paint finishes. This high pigment load is what gives it its characteristic velvety, non-reflective appearance.
• Pros:
  • Hides Flaws: Its light-absorbing quality is excellent at concealing imperfections, bumps, and patches on walls.
  • Rich Color: Colors appear deeper and truer because there’s no glare to detract from the pigment.
  • Easy Touch-Ups: Because it has no sheen, touch-ups blend in more seamlessly than with higher sheen paints.
• Cons:
  • Less Durable: Due to lower binder content, flat paint is generally the least durable and washable. It scuffs easily and can be difficult to clean without burnishing (creating shiny spots).
  • Not for High-Traffic Areas: Not ideal for areas that require frequent cleaning or experience high traffic.

What is matte paint? (low sheen, washable)

• Sheen Level: Matte paint has a very low sheen, but slightly more than flat paint. It offers a subtle, soft glow when viewed from certain angles, but still appears largely non-reflective.
• Composition: Modern matte paints incorporate advanced technology, with a higher percentage of binders than traditional flat paints. This gives them improved durability and washability.
• Pros:
  • Washable & Durable: Significantly more washable and durable than flat paint, making it suitable for moderate-traffic areas.
  • Soft Appearance: Provides a sophisticated, elegant look with a gentle luminosity.
  • Still Hides Flaws: While not as good as flat, its low sheen still helps to camouflage minor wall imperfections.
• Cons:
  • Slightly More Reflective: While minimal, it does have more reflectivity than flat.
  • Touch-Ups Can Be Tricky: While better than higher sheens, touch-ups can still sometimes show if not done carefully.

Visual & performance comparisons

Light reflectivity & hiding flaws

• Flat: Absorbs almost all light, making it the champion for hiding imperfections (nail pops, patched areas, uneven drywall). It gives a very soft, uniform look.
• Matte: Absorbs most light but has a very slight eggshell-like sheen that offers a subtle luminescence. It still excels at hiding flaws but is not quite as forgiving as true flat paint.

Cleanability & durability

• Flat: Poor cleanability. Wiping or scrubbing can remove paint film or cause burnishing (a shiny spot), making it difficult to maintain in high-traffic areas.
• Matte: Significantly improved cleanability. Many modern matte paints are formulated to be washable, allowing you to gently wipe away marks without damaging the finish. This makes them a much more practical choice for most living spaces.

Best uses by finish

Flat for ceilings & low-traffic walls

• Ceilings: The ideal choice for ceilings as it hides imperfections (often amplified by overhead lighting) and provides a non-glare finish that doesn’t distract from the walls.
• Low-Traffic Walls: Best for formal dining rooms, adult bedrooms, or other areas that see minimal contact and are unlikely to need frequent cleaning.

Matte for living rooms, wood trim, furniture

• Living Rooms & Dining Rooms: Excellent for creating an elegant, sophisticated atmosphere while offering better durability than flat paint.
• Bedrooms (all ages): A practical choice for bedrooms, balancing aesthetics with reasonable washability.
• Hallways (lighter traffic): Can be used in hallways if traffic isn’t extremely heavy, benefiting from its washability.
• Wood Trim & Furniture: Matte can be a unique, modern choice for trim or furniture, providing a soft, subtle contrast or a monolithic look.

When to choose each finish

• Choose Flat when:
  • You want to hide significant wall imperfections.
  • You prioritize a non-reflective, velvety aesthetic above all else.
  • You are painting ceilings or very low-traffic, formal spaces.
  • Touch-ups need to be as seamless as possible.
• Choose Matte when:
  • You want a sophisticated, low-sheen look similar to flat but with significantly better durability and washability.
  • You are painting living rooms, dining rooms, or bedrooms that might occasionally need cleaning.
  • You appreciate a subtle luminosity without distracting glare.
  • You have a good quality wall surface (minor imperfections will be less hidden than with flat).

Genesis Pro Painting helps you navigate the world of paint finishes. Our experts can advise you on the best flat or matte options for each room in your home, considering your lifestyle, desired aesthetic, and practical needs, ensuring a beautiful and lasting result