Satin vs. Semi-Gloss Garage

Finish

• The finish, or sheen, refers to the reflection and gloss of the paint once it dries. The sheen of a paint describes the amount of light the paint’s surface reflects. A satin finish, also referred to as a low-luster finish, shows a conservative amount of gloss. Semi-gloss paints have a higher amount of shine than satin, but are not as glossy as high-gloss paint. Since a semi-gloss reflects light, it has a tendency to show imperfections under the paint, such as dents, cracks and holes.

Durability

• Durability should always be considered when selecting exterior paint, since a surface area such as a garage is exposed to all kinds weather and general wear and tear from use. For the exterior of a garage, Sherwin-Williams recommends semi-gloss paints because they are dirt-resistant, easier to clean and hold up well in high moisture. A satin finish is also durable against scratches and peeling, but lacks the ability to stand up against high moisture like a semi-gloss finish.

Touchups

• Scratches and peeling paint can be expected on a much-used surface like the garage door. When these areas are sanded and touched up, the results between semi-gloss and satin vary greatly. Since imperfections show through easily with a semi-gloss paint, if the scratch, dent or peeling area is not repaired and smoothed out properly, the semi-gloss paint will still show the imperfection no matter where it is on the garage's exterior -- even with several coats. Satin, on the other hand, does not reflect as much light, which makes touchups easier and less noticeable when repairing imperfections.

Cleaning

• Both satin and semi-gloss paints are durable enough for cleaning. Both can be wiped down or hosed off, but only the semi-gloss finish can be scrubbed. A satin finish, since it does not have a gloss layer, may tend to scrape off during excessive scrubbing, while a semi-gloss finish holds strong. Since the finish of a semi-gloss paint is smoother, it is easier to wipe away dirt and grease from it than from a satin finish.