Low Lustre vs. Satin Sheen: Which Is Best for Your Home’s Exterior?
By Graystone Painting & Refinishing – Trusted Exterior Painters in Topeka, Lawrence & Eudora
When it comes to exterior painting, color often gets all the attention—but paint sheen plays a crucial role in both the appearance and performance of your home’s finish. Two of the most popular choices are Low Lustre and Satin sheens, especially when using premium products from Benjamin Moore and Sherwin-Williams. But how do you know which one is right for your home?
As top-rated exterior painters in Topeka, Lawrence, and Eudora, the team at Graystone Painting & Refinishing is here to break down the pros and cons of each.
Low Lustre Sheen
Pros:
Subtle, classic appearance: Low lustre has a soft finish that offers a smooth, muted look—ideal for traditional or historic homes.
Minimizes surface imperfections: Because it reflects less light, it does a better job of hiding minor flaws in siding or woodwork.
Good durability: Premium low lustre options like Benjamin Moore Aura Low Lustre and Sherwin-Williams Duration Low Lustre offer excellent protection from weather, mildew, and fading.
Cons:
Less scrubbable: Compared to satin, low lustre finishes may be slightly harder to clean.
Not as resistant to moisture: While still durable, it offers slightly less protection in high-moisture or harsh exposure areas.
Satin Sheen
Pros:
Enhanced durability and washability: Satin finishes are ideal for high-traffic areas and homes exposed to intense weather conditions.
Slightly richer appearance: Satin has a gentle gloss that can give surfaces a more finished, refined look.
Great for trim and accents: The light-reflective quality of satin makes it popular for doors, trim, and architectural details.
Cons:
Shows more imperfections: Because satin reflects more light, surface flaws like nail pops or uneven textures may be more noticeable.
Glossier finish may not suit all styles: If your goal is a soft, understated aesthetic, satin may feel a bit too shiny.
Choosing the Right Sheen for Your Home
At Graystone Painting & Refinishing, we guide our clients through the selection process to ensure the best results. Both Benjamin Moore and Sherwin-Williams offer exceptional exterior paint products in a variety of sheens—so it really comes down to the look you prefer and the functional demands of your property.
Still not sure which is right for your project? Our team of exterior painting professionals in Topeka, Lawrence, and Eudora will assess your home’s needs, review product options, and even help you visualize the final finish.
Get Expert Help from Graystone Painting & Refinishing
Whether you're leaning toward a timeless Low Lustre or a more modern Satin finish, we’ll help you make the best choice for your home. Contact Graystone Painting & Refinishing today to schedule your free consultation and learn why we’re the best painters in Northeast Kansas.
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