Eggshell paint is a finish type that has a very low sheen amount, while semi-gloss paint is a finish type that contains a high sheen amount. The difference in sheen amount makes both paints have different finish types, dry time, and surface protection.
Eggshell paint has less sheen (or gloss), a thinner viscosity, dries faster, and is easier to apply than semi-gloss paint.
Semi-gloss paint has more sheen, has a thicker viscosity, is more durable, offers better moisture resistance and wood protection, and is easier to clean and maintain than eggshell paint.
What is Eggshell Paint?
Eggshell paint is a finish type that falls between flat and satin paint in terms of sheen (or gloss) amount. It creates a dry textured finish that is slightly reflective and covers large surface imperfections.
Eggshell paint has a simple formula and a thin viscosity that makes the paint easy to apply and has a fast dry time. Its finish is water-soluble and can get removed if exposed to constant water.
You can use eggshell paint for the following things.
- To change the color of the surface.
- Over home décor like flower vases and ornaments.
- To hide dents and imperfections on the surface.
- To give color to clear finishes like polyurethane varnish.
- In arts and design work.
What is Semi-Gloss Paint?
Semi-gloss paint is a finish type that falls between high-gloss and satin paint in terms of sheen amount. It creates a glossy moisture-resistant finish that reflects light and highlights surface imperfections.
Semi-gloss paint finish is more reflective than satin or eggshell paint, but less reflective or glossy than high-gloss paint. It has a thicker viscosity that makes the paint application harder and increases its dry time.
You can use semi-gloss for the following things.
- To achieve a glossy finish.
- To protect the wood.
- Over water-based paints.
- To protect surfaces from moisture, water, and scratches.
Eggshell vs Semi-Gloss Paint
The differences between eggshell and semi-gloss paint are listed below.
Sheen Amount
Semi-gloss paint has more sheen amount on its formula than eggshell paint. The difference in sheen amount makes both paints have different finish types, dry time, and durability.
Paint Thickness
Semi-gloss paint has a thicker viscosity than eggshell paint as it has more sheen (or luster) on its formula, is formulated with more additives, and is usually oil-based.
Eggshell paint has a thinner viscosity as it doesn’t contain too much sheen (or gloss) and has a simple formula with no extra additives.
Dry Time
Eggshell paint dries faster than semi-gloss paint as it has a thinner viscosity, a simpler formula, doesn’t contain extra additives, and is usually water-based.
Eggshell paint takes around 2 hours to dry between coats, while semi-gloss paint takes around 2-3 hours.
Durability
Semi-gloss is more durable and lasts longer than eggshell paint as it creates a glossy hard finish that is resistant to water, scratches, and other elements that can damage it.
Eggshell paint has low durability and its finish doesn’t last long if not sealed as it’s not resistant to water, scratches, or other elements.
Moisture Resistance
Semi-gloss has better moisture resistance than eggshell paint as it creates a glossy finish that prevents water or moisture penetration.
Eggshell paint has a low moisture resistance as it creates a dry textured finish that is water-soluble and will get removed if exposed to constant water.
Wood Protection
Semi-gloss paint offers better wood protection than eggshell paint as it creates a glossy moisture-resistant coating that protects surfaces from water, moisture, and scratches.
Eggshell paint offers low wood protection as its dry and textured finish isn’t resistant to water or scratches and allows high water amount penetration.
Cleaning and Maintenance
Semi-gloss paint is easier to clean and maintain as its glossy finish repels dust and dirt, and you can clean it with a liquid-based cleaner without removing it.
Eggshell paint is harder to clean and maintain as its dry and textured finish attracts dust, and you can’t clean it with a liquid-based cleaner as you can remove the finish.
Paint Application
Eggshell paint is easier to apply as it has a thinner viscosity, dries faster, doesn’t require sanding between coats, and doesn’t drip over the surface.
Semi-gloss paint is harder to apply as it has a thicker viscosity that can drip over the surface, longer dry time, and requires sanding between coats.
Finish Type
Eggshell paint creates a dry textured finish providing a slight luster that isn’t reflective. Its finish is more colorful as pigments aren’t behind a gloss layer and it covers surface imperfections better.
Semi-gloss paint creates a glossy finish that reflects light and highlights surface imperfections or texture. Its finish has a glossy appearance and protects surfaces better.
Which Paint Sheen Do You Need?
Before choosing a paint sheen, consider the following things.
- Budget: Use eggshell paint if you have a lower budget as it costs less than semi-gloss paint.
- Wood Protection: Use semi-gloss paint if you want better surface protection from moisture, water, and scratches.
- Application Ease: Use eggshell paint if you want a finish that is easy to apply and dries fast.
- Cleaning: Use semi-gloss paint if you want a finish that is easier to clean.
