Choosing the right sheen of paint for kitchen cabinets depends on your preferences and the overall look you want to achieve. Different sheens offer different benefits and appearances. Here are some common options and their characteristics:
High-gloss: This sheen provides a shiny and reflective finish. It is highly durable, easy to clean, and resistant to stains and moisture. High-gloss cabinets can create a modern and contemporary look, but they also tend to highlight imperfections in the surface, so proper preparation is crucial.
Semi-gloss: This is a popular choice for kitchen cabinets because it strikes a balance between shine and durability. Semi-gloss cabinets are relatively easy to clean, making them suitable for busy kitchens. They offer a slightly less reflective finish than high-gloss but still have a subtle shine.
Satin: Satin sheen offers a smooth and velvety finish. It is less shiny than semi-gloss and provides a more muted appearance. Satin cabinets are reasonably durable and can hide some imperfections in the surface. They are a good compromise between a glossy and flat finish.
Eggshell: Eggshell is a low-sheen option that gives cabinets a soft and subtle glow. It has a slight luster and is less reflective than satin. Eggshell is a good choice if you want cabinets with a more traditional or classic appearance.
Matte/Flat: This sheen offers a smooth, non-reflective finish. Matte or flat cabinets create a contemporary and modern look. While they can hide surface imperfections well, they are not as durable as higher sheens and may not be as easy to clean.
Ultimately, the best sheen for your kitchen cabinets depends on your personal style, the amount of use the kitchen gets, and the level of maintenance you're willing to undertake. Before making a decision, it's a good idea to test a few samples on a small area of your cabinets to see how the different sheens look in your kitchen's lighting and with your chosen paint color.