Difference Between High Gloss and Semi Gloss Painting for Baseboards

High Gloss

• High gloss paint provides the most shine, or sheen, of any paint type. With darker colors, it is actually reflective, having a similar appearance to water or smooth plastic. High gloss paint is tough and meant to last. It can resist scratches and dents, and it's easy to wipe off any smudges and spills that occur. High gloss is the best paint to use for high traffic areas.

High Gloss for Baseboards

• High gloss paint will withstand the typical abuse that baseboards endure and washing will be much easier. However, high gloss paint does reveal every imperfection on a baseboard, so it should only be used on new baseboards. Additionally, baseboards should be inspected and primed before applying the paint to ensure a pristine look.

Semi-Gloss

• Semi-gloss is one sheen down from high gloss. Although not as tough, semi-gloss does have enough of a protective layer to withstand scrubbing. Semi-gloss paint is more muted than high gloss but will still have some shine. Semi-gloss also works well for high traffic areas

Semi-Gloss for Baseboards

• Semi-gloss paint can be scrubbed, but will not withstand as much scrubbing or as hard of a scrubbing as high gloss paint. Semi-gloss has a sheen, but will not reveal as many imperfections as a high gloss paint.