Eggshell and semi-gloss have key differences including appearance, durability, ease of cleaning and maintenance, and cost.
Eggshell tends to work better on walls, while semi-gloss is often reserved for trim and doors.
What Is Eggshell Paint?
Tana Teel / Stocksy
Here are some of the defining qualities of eggshell paint:
What Is Semi-Gloss Paint?
But what else differentiates these two popular paint finishes?
This is why semi-gloss paint is often reserved for smaller surfaces like trim, doors, and cabinetry.
The Spruce / Marty Baldwin
Tip
Eggshell paint is a great option for those new to painting.
Some semi-gloss paint manufacturers recommend additional time between coats to minimize stickiness after drying.
When shopping for paint, don’t let minor cost savings influence your choice too much.
Some small savings on the front end may lead to lower longevity and quicker repainting.
Eggshell vs. Semi-Gloss Paint: Which One Should You Choose?
Choosing eggshell vs semi-gloss paint all comes down to where and what you are painting.
In fact, there isn’t much crossover between these two paint finishes.
Walls are often painted with eggshell paint, as it’s a good balance of durability and low sheen.
Semi-gloss paint is better for bathrooms than eggshell paint because it has a glossier, more durable finish.
This allows semi-gloss paint to shed condensation more easily and stand up better to frequent cleaning and wipe-downs.
