If you’re looking for a way to add value and curb appeal to your home, an exterior paint job can do just that. But with so many options available, it’s important to choose the right sheen for your exterior paint. Exterior paint sheens can range from flat, which has no shine or gloss, to high-gloss, which has a highly reflective finish. Before making a decision, there are a few factors you should consider.
The first factor to consider is the weather in your area. If you live in a location that experiences hot summers, it’s recommended to go with a sheen that has less shine, such as satin or eggshell. This will help reduce the amount of glare and make your outdoor living space more comfortable. Next, consider the type of surface you’re painting. If you’re painting brick or stucco, a flat sheen will work best. If you’re painting wood siding, a semi-gloss or satin sheen will be more suitable.
When it comes to choosing the right exterior paint sheen, you may have some questions. How many coats of paint should you apply? Should you hire a professional or do it yourself? What is the best time of year for an exterior paint job? Finding the answers to these questions can help you make an informed decision and ensure that your exterior paint job is a success. So, take some time to research and consider your options before making a final decision on the perfect sheen for your exterior paint.
10 Best Sheen For Exterior Paint
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This product is ideal for painting the exterior of buildings with a semi-matte, low sheen finish in a pure black color.
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2
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Ideal for providing weather repellent protection to exterior surfaces with a clear, semi-gloss finish in a large gallon size.
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3
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Ideal for exterior painting with a rich green-blue tone, low sheen finish, and self-priming qualities that are eco-friendly.
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4
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Ideal for exterior painting projects that require a warm taupe-gray color with a semi-matte finish and eco-friendly features.
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5
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The product is ideal for painting exterior surfaces, has a low sheen finish, is self-priming, eco-friendly and comes in a bright color.
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6
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This product is ideal for painting the exterior of buildings with a smooth, low sheen finish that is environmentally conscious.
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7
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This premium exterior paint is ideal for giving a yellowish green finish to surfaces and is a self-priming, low VOC, eco-friendly option.
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8
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This product is ideal for painting cabinets and furniture without the need for sanding, with a built-in primer and top coat.
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9
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The product is ideal for use as an outdoor side table with a removable tray, suitable for use in various settings.
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10
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The product is ideal as an outdoor or indoor decorative end table made of concrete.
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1. Dark Arts 0.5 Gal Premium Exterior Paint
Transform any room into a sophisticated space with Dark Arts pure black paint. With a cool, laidback look, this high-pigmentation eggshell finish offers a silky-smooth wall surface that's perfect for any part of your home. The 6% sheen finish creates a subtle shine that elevates your walls effortlessly.
This premium coverage paint uses high-performing acrylic resin that's easy to wash, stain resistant, and professional grade. With maximum coverage, one gallon can cover up to 400 square feet. The low odor, self-priming formula makes painting a breeze. Its award-winning clean pour design and simple open and close can without tools make the application process easy and mess-free.
Enjoy a quick dry time with Dark Arts paint. It takes only 60 minutes to touch and 3-4 hours to recoat. Plus, it's environmentally friendly. Dark Arts is the first climate-neutral certified paint company. Tested and verified as ultra-low VOC and made without the use of formaldehyde or any other harmful off-gassing substances, you can feel good about using this paint in your home.
- High-pigmentation eggshell finish creates a silky-smooth wall surface
- Premium coverage with high-performing acrylic resin
- Low odor, self-priming formula for easy application
- Quick dry time
- Environmentally friendly with ultra-low VOC and no formaldehyde or harmful off-gassing substances
2. Sashco Cascade Exterior Weather Repellent, 1 Gallon Pail, Semi-Gloss Clear (Pack Of 1) (63004)
Keeping your home looking like the day it was finished has never been easier with Cascade Maintenance Stain. This product makes refreshing your stain a breeze, without the need for laborious removal. Simply clean the surface, apply Cascade, and enjoy the just-stained look once again. No second-guessing necessary, as it is easy to know when the surface needs maintenance. Cascade is clear and won't discolor chinking or other sealants, making it a perfect choice for routine maintenance applications. Not only that, but it repels water, keeping your logs in top shape and rot concerns at bay. It resists mildew and algae, ensuring that unsightly growths stay in the lab and not on your logs. And, Cascade also protects against UV damage, preventing major color shifts and maintaining the just-stained look of Capture Log Stain.
- Easy to use for stain refreshing
- Skin, earth, and nose friendly
- Clear formula won't discolor chinking or other sealants
- Repels water to keep logs in top shape
- Resists mildew and algae growth
- Protects against UV damage to maintain the just-stained look
3. Upstate Weekend Green Exterior Paint
Weekend Upstate is a dark green paint with strong blue undertones that is ideal for most exterior body surfaces. It has a 6% sheen finish that applies smoothly and is built to withstand harsh outside conditions, including weather, humidity, and direct sun. This paint offers high-performing acrylic resin that is durable, easy to wash, stain-resistant, professional-grade, and provides maximum coverage. A single gallon of this paint can cover up to 400 square feet.
This paint is designed to be the new way to paint, with its low odor, self-priming, easy open & close can (no tool needed), clean pour design, and quick dry time. It takes only 60 minutes to touch and 3-4 hours to recoat. This paint is also Green Wise Certified and tested and certified as Ultra Low VOC. It is made without the use of formaldehyde and other harmful off-gassing substances. Backdrop is the first Climate Neutral Certified paint company.
Overall, Weekend Upstate is a premium quality paint that is perfect for anyone who wants a long-lasting exterior finish. With its intense pigment and maximum coverage, this paint is easy to apply and will provide a beautiful, even finish that will stand up to the elements for years to come.
- 6% sheen finish applies smoothly and withstands harsh outside conditions
- High-performing acrylic resin is durable, easy to wash, and stain-resistant
- Professional-grade and offers intense pigment and maximum coverage
- Low odor, self-priming, easy open & close can (no tool needed), clean pour design, and quick dry time
- Green Wise Certified and tested and certified as Ultra Low VOC, made without the use of formaldehyde and other harmful off-gassing substances
- Backdrop is the first Climate Neutral Certified paint company
4. Greenwise Sentimental Reasons Exterior Paint
For those looking for a warm taupe-gray with earthy and lilac undertones, the Sentimental Reasons paint by Backdrop is an excellent choice. Its premium coverage is due to the high performing acrylic resin that offers intense pigment and maximum coverage. With 1 Gallon of this paint, you can cover approximately 400 square feet. This exterior semi-matte (eggshell) finish applies smoothly on most exterior body surfaces and is built to withstand harsh outside conditions, including weather, humidity, and direct sun.
This paint is the new way to paint, with a low-odor, self-priming, easy open & close can design that does not require any tool. The clean pour design makes it easy to apply, and it dries quickly, with 60 minutes to touch and 3-4 hours to recoat. Additionally, the Sentimental Reasons paint is Green Wise Certified, tested, and certified as Ultra Low VOC. It's made without the use of formaldehyde and other harmful off-gassing substances. Backdrop is the first Climate Neutral Certified paint company.
Overall, if you're looking for a paint that offers premium coverage, durable, easy to wash, stain-resistant, professional-grade, and has a low odor, then the Sentimental Reasons paint by Backdrop is an excellent choice for you.
- Premium coverage due to high performing acrylic resin
- Intense pigment and maximum coverage – 1 Gallon covers 400 square feet
- Exterior semi-matte (eggshell) finish that withstands harsh outside conditions
- Green Wise Certified, tested, and certified as Ultra Low VOC
- Made without the use of formaldehyde and other harmful off-gassing substances
- Low-odor, self-priming, easy open & close can design that does not require any tool
- Quick dry time – 60 minutes to touch and 3-4 hours to recoat
5. Green Wise Premium Exterior Paint: Barragán-Cito Pink
The BARRAGÁN-CITO electric bright pink paint is inspired by Mexican architect Luis Barragán and the vacation vibe. This paint is perfect for exterior semi-matte (eggshell) finish and is designed to withstand harsh outside conditions such as weather, humidity, and direct sun. With premium coverage, this high-performing acrylic resin paint is durable, easy to wash, stain-resistant, offers intense pigment, and delivers maximum coverage. One gallon of paint covers 400 square feet of surface area.
This paint offers a new way to paint with low odor, self-priming, and an easy-to-open-and-close can with no tools needed. The clean pour design makes it easy to use and apply, and it dries quickly within 60 minutes to touch and 3-4 hours to recoat.
The BARRAGÁN-CITO paint is certified by Green Wise as Ultra Low VOC, free from formaldehyde, and other harmful off-gassing substances. Backdrop is the first Climate Neutral Certified paint company that provides quality, stylish, and eco-friendly paint. Overall, the BARRAGÁN-CITO paint is perfect for exterior body surfaces and offers a smooth and long-lasting finish.
- Premium coverage with high-performing acrylic resin
- Easy to use with low odor, self-priming and clean pour design
- Dries quickly within 60 minutes to touch and 3-4 hours to recoat
- Green Wise certified as Ultra Low VOC and free from formaldehyde
- Climate Neutral Certified paint company
6. Green Wise Gin Blossoms Exterior Paint
Add a warm and elevated touch to your exterior surfaces with the Gin Blossoms paint. This premium quality paint features a beautiful lilac shade that can bring you a grounded sort of happiness. It comes with a 6% sheen finish, which is an exterior semi-matte (eggshell) finish that applies smoothly and is perfect for most exterior body surfaces. This paint is built to withstand harsh outside conditions like weather, humidity, and direct sun.
The high-performing acrylic resin used in this paint provides maximum coverage and intense pigment with professional-grade quality. It is durable, easy to wash, stain-resistant, and offers excellent coverage. A single gallon of Gin Blossoms paint can cover an area of around 400 square feet.
This paint is incredibly easy to use, thanks to its low odor and self-priming properties. The easy-open and close can design doesn't require any tools, and the clean pour feature makes pouring the paint a breeze. It also has a quick drying time of only 60 minutes to touch and 3-4 hours to recoat.
Gin Blossoms paint is certified as Ultra Low VOC and is made without the use of formaldehyde and other harmful off-gassing substances. Backdrop, the manufacturer of this paint, is the first Climate Neutral Certified paint company, making it an environment-friendly choice for your home.
- Premium quality paint with a warm and elevated lilac shade
- 6% sheen finish for exterior semi-matte (eggshell) finish that applies smoothly
- High-performing acrylic resin provides maximum coverage and intense pigment
- Easy to use with low odor and self-priming properties
- Quick drying time of only 60 minutes to touch and 3-4 hours to recoat
- Certified as Ultra Low VOC and made without formaldehyde and other harmful off-gassing substances
- Backdrop is the first Climate Neutral Certified paint company
7. Stardust Exterior Paint – Green Wise Certified
Add a touch of elegance and sophistication to your home with STARDUST, a premium quality interior wall paint that delivers a silky smooth finish. The yellow with a hint of green color adds a refreshing pop of color to your living space. Ideal for most rooms in your home, including the living room, kitchen, dining room, office, den, kid's room, guest room, nursery, hallway, or entrance, this high hide, semi-matte (eggshell) finish paint offers intense pigment and maximum coverage. With one gallon covering 400 square feet, you can easily transform the look and feel of any room in your home.
STARDUST is formulated with high performing acrylic resin that makes it durable, easy to wash, stain-resistant, and professional-grade. It's a low odor, self-priming paint that comes in an easy open and close can, with a clean pour design that makes application a breeze. The paint applies easily and dries quickly, with a 60-minute touch time and 3-4 hours to recoat. It's perfect for any DIY project or professional painting job.
STARDUST is environmentally friendly, and it's Green Wise certified. It has been tested and certified as Ultra Low VOC and is made without formaldehyde and other harmful off-gassing substances. Backdrop is the first Climate Neutral Certified paint company, making STARDUST a responsible choice for homeowners who care about the environment and the health of their families.
- High-performing acrylic resin that makes it durable and easy to wash
- Stain-resistant and professional-grade
- Low odor, self-priming paint
- Easy open and close can with a clean pour design makes application a breeze
- Quick-drying formula with a 60-minute touch time and 3-4 hours to recoat
- Green Wise certified, Ultra Low VOC, and made without formaldehyde and other harmful off-gassing substances
- First Climate Neutral Certified paint company
8. Primer-Free Elite Cabinet & Furniture Paint
The ALL-IN-ONE Paint is the perfect solution for those who want to paint their house without the hassle of sanding, priming, or adding a top coat. With its low luster, velvet sheen finish, it is suitable for both interior and exterior surfaces. This versatile paint is ideal for a variety of hard surfaces, including walls, doors, cabinets, counters, furniture, metal, glass, ceramics, and even floor and wall tiles. It is also durable, yet flexible enough to paint smooth fabrics, vinyl, and leather.
Thanks to its all-in-one formula, this paint saves time and effort, making it an ideal choice for those who want to refresh their home's look without breaking the bank. It is easy to apply, and its low odor and low VOC formula make it safe for indoor use. Whether you want to create a new look for your kitchen cabinets or add a pop of color to your living room walls, the ALL-IN-ONE Paint has got you covered.
This paint offers excellent coverage, and one gallon can cover up to 350 square feet. It dries quickly, allowing you to apply a second coat in just two hours. The paint is water-resistant, making it perfect for high-moisture areas such as bathrooms and kitchens. It is also resistant to fading and chalking, ensuring that your walls will look great for years to come.
Overall, the ALL-IN-ONE Paint is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a hassle-free painting experience. Its versatility and durability make it suitable for a wide range of surfaces, and its easy application process saves both time and effort. The low odor and low VOC formula make it safe for indoor use, and its water-resistant and fade-resistant properties ensure a long-lasting finish.
- No sanding, priming, or top coat required
- Suitable for a wide range of surfaces
- Durable and flexible
- Excellent coverage
- Quick drying
- Water-resistant
- Fade-resistant
- Low odor and low VOC formula
- – May require multiple coats for some surfaces
9. Gold Metal Outdoor 2-Tier Tray Table
Introducing the 2-Tier Round Side Table, a versatile and practical addition to your home furniture collection. With two removable trays, this side table is perfect for eating, entertaining or simply enjoying your favorite drink. The curled edge design ensures that the trays stay securely in place, while also preventing any potential accidents when moving around. The foldable design makes it easy to store and carry, so you can use it in any room of your home, including the living room, study or bedroom.
This outdoor side table comes with 4 adjustable height levelers that keep your floor from scratching and make it more stable on uneven surfaces. The dimensions of the small round side table are D 15.74 inch x H 20 inch, making it lightweight and portable. Made of anti-rust and water-resistant metal, this side table is durable enough to be placed both indoors and outdoors. The color is modern and fashionable, adding a touch of luxury to your home or porch.
The metal side table can be used in various ways, such as a modern accent table, end table in the living room, outdoor side table, bedroom nightstand/lamp table, small balcony or patio casual table, or even as a plant stand for your houseplant. The round side table is also easy to assemble and can be set up in minutes with minimum space. It can be easily wiped clean with a cloth or dry towel. With great after-sales service, you can always contact us with any questions or concerns you may have.
- Two removable trays for convenience
- Foldable design for easy storage and portability
- Adjustable height levelers to protect floors and improve stability
- Durable and water-resistant material for indoor and outdoor use
- Versatile and multi-functional use in any room
- – May not be suitable for larger items
10. Ball & Cast Concrete Stool End Table, 16.9"h, Natural
Add a touch of personality and charm to your indoor, hallway or garden with this versatile tree stump stool. Crafted from premium magnesia with a hand-painted finish, this stool is designed to bring a natural feel to any space. The tree log-inspired end table features knots and cracks, which are not product flaws but rather a unique characteristic of the design.
Made from lightweight concrete, this stool is durable and stable, with a weight capacity of up to 275lbs. It can resist damage from environmental hazards, making it suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. You can use it as a stand for your lamp, a funky stand by your bed, or as a stool or table on your patio or side of a sofa futon.
Not only is this stool versatile and durable, but it is also eco-friendly. Instead of using precious natural resources and decimating forests, this stool is crafted from new MgO composite material. This makes it a one-of-a-kind piece that you can be proud to own and display in your home.
- Versatile and can be used as a stool or table
- Lightweight concrete material is durable and stable
- Hand-painted finish brings a natural feel to any space
- Eco-friendly, made from new MgO composite material
- – None
Best Sheen For Exterior Paint FAQs
Can a high-gloss sheen be used for exterior paint?
Yes, a high-gloss sheen can be used for exterior paint. In fact, high-gloss sheen is often preferred for exterior surfaces because it provides a smooth and shiny finish that is easy to clean and maintain. This type of sheen is also very durable and can withstand harsh weather conditions, such as rain, wind, and sunlight. However, it is important to note that high-gloss sheen may highlight imperfections in the surface, such as cracks and bumps. Additionally, it may not be suitable for all types of surfaces, such as those that are prone to moisture or require a more textured finish. Therefore, it is recommended to consult with a professional painter or paint supplier to determine the best type of exterior paint and sheen for your specific needs.
How does the choice of sheen impact the overall appearance of exterior paint?
The choice of sheen plays a significant role in determining the overall appearance of exterior paint. There are different levels of sheen available in paint products, ranging from flat, eggshell, satin, semi-gloss, and gloss. Each level of sheen has its unique characteristics, which can influence the look and feel of a painted surface.
Flat sheen, for instance, is ideal for concealing surface imperfections, but it may not be durable enough to withstand harsh weather conditions. On the other hand, glossy sheen is highly durable and can withstand different weather conditions, but it may not be suitable for surfaces that require a uniform finish.
Satin and semi-gloss sheen are popular choices for exterior paint because they offer a balance between durability and uniformity. They are easy to clean, resist fading, and can withstand harsh weather conditions. These types of sheen are ideal for high-traffic areas such as doors, trims, and shutters.
In summary, the choice of sheen can impact the overall appearance of exterior paint in different ways. It's essential to consider the surface's location, exposure to the elements, and desired finish when selecting the appropriate sheen level for your exterior paint project.
How does the sheen affect the durability of exterior paint?
The sheen of exterior paint can have an impact on its durability. Generally, high-gloss paints are more durable than those with a lower sheen. This is because high-gloss paints have a harder finish that is more resistant to wear and tear, including scratches, scuffs, and stains. Additionally, high-gloss paints are better at repelling moisture, which can help to prevent mold and mildew growth.
However, while high-gloss paints may be more durable, they also tend to show imperfections more easily than paints with a lower sheen. This means that any bumps, cracks, or other flaws in the surface of the paint may be more visible with a high-gloss finish. Additionally, high-gloss paints can be more difficult to apply and may require more coats to achieve full coverage.
Ultimately, the right sheen for your exterior paint will depend on your specific needs and preferences. If you prioritize durability above all else, a high-gloss finish may be the best choice. However, if you are more concerned with achieving a smooth and flawless surface, a lower-sheen paint may be a better option.
Is a satin or semi-gloss sheen better for exterior trim?
When it comes to exterior trim, choosing the right sheen can make all the difference in the look and longevity of the paint. Satin and semi-gloss are two popular options, but which one is better?
Satin sheen is a popular choice for exterior trim because of its smooth, subtle finish. It provides a low sheen that's not too shiny, which can be ideal for hiding imperfections and creating a uniform look. Satin is also durable and easy to clean, making it an excellent choice for high-traffic areas.
On the other hand, semi-gloss sheen is a bit more reflective and has a higher shine. It's ideal for trim that needs to stand out and create a highlight, such as doors, shutters, and decorative molding. Semi-gloss is also highly durable and resists moisture, making it an excellent choice for outdoor use.
Ultimately, the choice between satin and semi-gloss sheen for exterior trim comes down to personal preference and the specific needs of your project. Both options offer different benefits and can create a beautiful finish when used correctly.
What type of sheen is best for exterior paint?
When it comes to choosing the right sheen for exterior paint, it's important to consider a few factors. First, the level of glossiness and sheen will affect the way the color appears in different lighting conditions. Second, the type of surface you're painting will also play a role in determining the best sheen.
For most exterior surfaces, a satin or eggshell sheen is recommended. Satin provides a subtle shine that's easy to clean and durable enough to withstand weather conditions. Eggshell has a slightly lower sheen than satin but is still durable and easy to clean. It's also a popular choice for wood siding and trim.
For high-traffic areas, such as doors and trim, a semi-gloss or gloss sheen may be a better option. These finishes are highly reflective and provide a smooth, shiny surface that's resistant to wear and tear.
Ultimately, the best sheen for your exterior paint will depend on your personal preference and the specific needs of your project. Consulting with a professional painter or paint supplier can help you make an informed decision.