What is the Difference Between Matt and Silk Paint

The main difference between matt and silk paint is that matt paint gives a smooth, non-reflective richer finish while silk paint is a light-reflecting, high sheen paint. So, if you love to give your house a contemporary look and hide its imperfections, matt is the ideal emulsion for you. But if you want to make your rooms look bigger than their actual size, then silk paint is the ideal option for you.

Matt paint and silk paint are two types of emulsions. They are available in hundreds of different colour variations. Each has its own pros and cons.

Key Areas Covered

1. What is Matt Paint
   – Definition, Features, Pros and Cons
2. What is Silk Paint
     – Definition, Features, Pros and Cons
3. Similarities Between Matt and Silk Paint
     – Outline of Common Features
4. Difference Between Matt and Silk Paint
    – Comparison of Key Differences

Key Terms

Matt Paint, Silk Paint, Emulsion, Wall Paint

Difference Between Matt and Silk Paint - Comparison Summary

What is Matt Paint

Matt paint is an emulsion that gives a smooth, non-reflective richer finish. Matt paints are usually called flat paint as they do not reflect much light due to their lower gloss percentage. Thus, this quality makes matt paint the ideal choice if you are keen on hiding any surface imperfections. Also, matt finishes come with lots of pigment. Therefore, it is easier and quicker to apply them on extensive surfaces. Nevertheless, cleaning a matt finish is a challenging task. This is why matt paint is most suitable for areas with less traffic.

Matt vs Silk Paint

Generally, matt finishes are best suited for ceilings and bedrooms. Furthermore, matt paint is ideal for surfaces that are beyond our reach and aren’t open to dirt or steam. Compared to other types of emulsions,  matt paint delivers the “flattest” finish.

What is Silk Paint

Silk paint is an emulsion that gives a ‘mid-sheen’ finish. Silk finish is quite similar to satin finishes. In the reflective scale, the silk finish is somewhere between emulsion and gloss. Simply put, silk paint is not completely reflective but still delivers a softer sheen.

Compare Matt and Silk Paint - What's the difference?

Silk becomes the ideal paint for parents with kids who face the daily trouble of removing sticky finger marks from their walls. This is because you can simply wipe the silk surface with a cloth without damaging the finish or leaving any spots. In addition, silk paint can make rooms look bigger as they reflect light.

Similarities Between Matt and Silk Paint

  • Matt paint and silk paint are two types of emulsions.
  • Both can be used as wall paints.
  • These paints come in hundreds of different colour variations.

Difference Between Matt and Silk Paint

Definition

Matt paint is an emulsion that gives a smooth, non-reflective richer finish, while silk paint is an emulsion that gives a mid-sheen finish.

Finish

Matt paint gives you a non-shiny, dull finish, while silk paint gives a smooth, velvety finish with light-reflecting properties.

Hiding Imperfections

Moreover, matte paint is best suited to hide the flaws and imperfections and flaws on the painting surface, while matt paint silk paint does not have the ability to hide flaws and imperfections.

Making Rooms Bigger

Since silk paint can reflect light, it can make rooms look bigger, but matt paints cannot do this.

Cleaning

Silk paint surfaces can be cleaned easily with less effort. Compared to silk finish surfaces, matt finish surfaces get dirt quickly and are difficult to clean. Therefore, matt pain is not a very good choice for traffic areas like kitchens, bathrooms, and children’s rooms.

Conclusion

The main difference between matt and silk paint is that matt paint gives a smooth, non-reflective richer finish while silk paint gives a light-reflecting, high sheen fish. If you want to give your house a contemporary look, matt paint is the best choice for you. But if you want to make rooms appear bigger and more spacious, it is always better to choose silk paint over matt paint.

Reference:

1. “Matte Finish vs. Satin and Gloss: A Guide to Paint Finish Types.” Five Star Painting.

Image Courtesy:

Pixabay

About the Author: Anuradha

Anuradha has a BA degree in English, French, and Translation studies. She is currently reading for a Master's degree in Teaching English Literature in a Second Language Context. Her areas of interests include Arts and Literature, Language and Education, Nature and Animals, Cultures and Civilizations, Food, and Fashion.

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