Magnusfarce wrote:
I went shopping for exterior paint yesterday and was told by the paint
salesman that a common choice these days is a satin or mild gloss as opposed
to regular old flat paint for siding or main surfaces. I'm aware this
change has taken place in interior paints (satin as opposed to flat for
walls). Is the same thing happening with exterior paints? My specific
examples would be BM's MoorGard (Low Lustre) versus MoorLife (flat).
(MoorGlo is their semigloss or trim paint.) Thanks.

- Magnusfarce



Here in Florida, semi-gloss is almost universally used. Sheds dirt
better than flat, and probably holds less mold/mildew. I think glossy
is hideous, and it shows defects more easily.

Semi has been pretty standard in kitchens and baths for washability. I
don't care for it in other rooms, but it has become popular. Depends a
bit on use - five toddlers will coat the walls with goo that needs to be
washed off. Smokers = more dirt. More sheen = more defects show. Less
sheen = less easy to clean.