What sheen should I use for my bathroom and kitchen where there's a lot of moisture?

For bathrooms and kitchens in Vancouver homes, semi-gloss is the most recommended sheen, with satin as a close second choice. Both handle moisture, steam, and frequent cleaning far better than flat or eggshell finishes.

Semi-gloss (40-70% gloss level) is the traditional choice for wet areas. Its smooth, slightly reflective surface repels moisture, resists mould and mildew growth, and wipes clean effortlessly. Grease splatters in the kitchen and soap residue in the bathroom come off with just a damp cloth. Semi-gloss is particularly important for Vancouver bathrooms because our mild, humid climate already promotes mould growth — a moisture-resistant paint finish adds one more layer of protection.

Satin (25-35% gloss level) has become increasingly popular for homeowners who find semi-gloss too shiny. Modern premium satin formulations now offer nearly the same moisture resistance and washability as semi-gloss, with a softer, more contemporary appearance. Many Vancouver painters now default to satin for kitchen walls and reserve semi-gloss for trim and cabinet faces.

High-gloss is sometimes used on bathroom and kitchen trim, doors, and cabinets for maximum durability and a dramatic look, but it highlights every wall imperfection, so it's rarely used on large wall surfaces.

Regardless of sheen, choose a paint with built-in mildew resistance for any bathroom without an exhaust fan or with poor ventilation. In Vancouver's climate, bathrooms without proper ventilation are especially prone to mould on painted surfaces.

A professional painter can help you select the right sheen and recommend whether your bathroom walls need a mildew-resistant primer before the topcoat is applied.

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