Matte (low)
A flat, quiet look with little reflection. It hides scratches, handles wet areas well and suits utility spaces.
Satin
A soft glow with muted reflections. It is warm, forgiving and a popular choice for restaurants, offices and homes.
Semi-gloss
A clear sheen with visible reflections of lights and windows, without a mirror effect. A popular balance for retail and commercial spaces.
High-gloss
A mirror-like finish that shows crisp reflections. It brightens a space dramatically and suits showrooms and lobbies. It shows scratches and marks more, and it is slippery when wet.
Choosing
Match the sheen to the traffic, the moisture and the mood. You can use different sheens in different zones of the same building. The Sheen Simulator on this site lets you see the difference.
Light, color and sheen
The same floor looks different under daylight, warm bulbs and bright LEDs. Large windows and white walls make glossy floors look brighter, while dark ceilings make the same floor look deeper and calmer. Test samples in the room whenever you can.
Sheen and safety
Gloss is not the same as slipperiness, but a high-gloss floor that gets wet is slicker than a matte one. Entrances, restrooms and food areas often use a lower sheen or a traction treatment. We can mix sheens across one building.
Sheen and upkeep
Higher sheen shows scratches, fine dust and tire marks sooner. Lower sheen hides them better. If a floor will see carts, forklifts or heavy foot traffic, a satin look may stay presentable longer between cleanings.
Try the simulator
The Sheen Simulator tool lets you slide from matte to high-gloss on a sample room and see the difference in reflections before you decide.
Quick answers
Which sheen is best for a home?
Many owners like satin to semi-gloss for living areas.
Which is safest when wet?
Lower sheen with traction treatment is safer than a mirror gloss.
Can one building have different sheen levels?
Yes. Public areas can be high gloss while service areas stay satin or matte, as long as the transitions are planned.
