Which Sheen is Best for Your Floors?

How do you decide which sheen best suits your customers' floors? The main difference between matte, semi-gloss, and high-gloss finishes lies in the level of sheen or reflectivity they produce. Matte finishes produce a low sheen and create a more subdued look. Semi-gloss finishes deliver a moderate sheen that appears smoother and more lustrous than matte but less reflective than glossy finishes. Glossy finishes, the most reflective of the three, almost create a mirror-like effect between the floor and its surroundings.

When choosing the best finish, you need to examine the specific requirements of the space.

Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Sheen

1. Aesthetics

Glossy finishes create an enormous amount of reflectivity, so they work well in rooms with large windows or bright artificial lighting. They enhance brightness and add visual interest. Glossy finishes, especially high gloss, add a touch of elegance and sophistication to a space.

Many people perceive a high gloss finish as a sign of cleanliness, especially in healthcare environments. They often believe that a reflective floor indicates it is well-maintained and free from dirt, dust, and debris.

Matte finishes offer a more natural and relaxed look with minimal light reflection. They provide a neutral character and highlight materials for a raw, organic appearance.

Semi-gloss and matte finishes produce a subtle sheen without being overly reflective. This option balances the desire for shine with the need for a slip-resistant floor.

2. Maintenance

Glossy finishes tend to show dirt and debris more easily than semi-gloss or matte finishes. They require regular cleaning and maintenance to keep their pristine appearance.

Alternatively, a semi-gloss sheen disperses light and conceals dust and flaws better, making it easier to maintain. Because matte finishes hide soil and imperfections like scuffs or scratches so well, they suit high-activity areas better.

3. Safety

When choosing a coating, consider the safety of the floors in the space as the most important factor. For example, in long-term care facilities, residents with visual or neurological impairments benefit from the lower shine of matte coatings because these coatings prevent glare from natural and artificial lighting that could cause loss of balance and increase the risk of slips, trips, and falls. Finishes mixed with traction additives naturally reduce reflectivity and can meet ADA and OSHA DCOF non-slip traction recommendations (for specifics on the current American National Standards Institute (ANSI) standard, click HERE). These additives also play a key role in areas prone to moisture, especially near building entrances. To learn more, see our page on Health and Safety.