When would you use semi-gloss paint?

You would use semi-gloss paint when you need durability, moisture resistance, and easy cleaning, and when you want a bit of shine to highlight details. Because semi-gloss dries to a hard, non-porous film, it is ideal for high-traffic, high-moisture, or high-touch areas that get dirty and need frequent scrubbing. Common interior uses include trim, baseboards, crown molding, window frames, doors, and door casings, where the slight sheen helps define architectural details and creates a contrast with flatter wall finishes. It is also excellent for kitchens and bathrooms, including walls in those rooms, because it resists humidity, grease splatter, and water. Many people use semi-gloss or gloss on kitchen cabinets, vanities, and furniture for its hard, wipeable finish. On the exterior, semi-gloss is used for front doors, shutters, and trim that need weather resistance. You would generally not use semi-gloss on large wall areas like living rooms or bedrooms unless you want a very shiny look, because it highlights wall imperfections and can create glare. It is best reserved for accents and functional surfaces.