Choosing a wall paint goes beyond simply selecting a colour. The finish — in other words, the sheen level — directly influences the aesthetic result, the durability of the surface and the ease of maintenance.
Deep matt, velvet, satin: each finish meets specific requirements. A poor choice can lead to a disappointing visual result or premature wear of your walls.
In this guide, we help you understand the differences between Flügger Dekso Ultramat, Flutex Pro 5, Flutex Pro 7, Flutex Pro 10 and Dekso Air, so you can find the most suitable solution for your interior.
Why is sheen level such an essential criterion?
The sheen level determines several fundamental aspects:
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the way light reflects off the wall
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the visibility of surface imperfections
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resistance to scrubbing
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ease of cleaning
As a general rule, the higher the sheen, the more resistant the paint. However, it also tends to highlight imperfections more readily.
The right choice therefore depends on finding a balance between aesthetics and durability.
Understanding the main wall finishes
Deep matt: an elegant and contemporary finish
Deep matt is highly sought after in modern interiors. It absorbs light, producing a subtle and uniform result.
Recommended paint: Flügger Dekso Ultramat
Its strengths:
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effectively conceals surface irregularities
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minimises the visibility of lap marks
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delivers a premium finish
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creates a warm atmosphere
Particularly suited to:
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living rooms
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bedrooms
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ceilings
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large surfaces
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walls with minor imperfections
This finish is often favoured by interior designers for its refined appearance.
Its main limitation concerns washability, which is lower than that of more satin finishes.
Resistant matt / light velvet: the ideal balance
This finish is currently one of the best all-round options for residential use. It retains the elegance of matt while offering greater durability.
Recommended paint: Flutex Pro 5
Key characteristics:
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soft, low-sheen appearance
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good long-term durability
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easy to maintain
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consistent finish
Ideal for:
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living areas
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children's bedrooms
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offices
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rental properties
For projects where a reliable, no-risk solution is required, this finish is often the most sensible choice.
Reinforced velvet: for higher-traffic areas
When walls are subject to more frequent rubbing and contact, it may be worth opting for a slightly higher sheen level.
Recommended paint: Flutex Pro 7
Key benefits:
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enhanced durability
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easier to clean
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elegant finish without excessive sheen
Recommended for:
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hallways
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stairwells
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entrances
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circulation areas
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family homes
It helps protect surfaces while maintaining an attractive finish.
Light satin: durability comes first
Satin finishes are designed for demanding environments. Their denser surface makes maintenance easier and improves stain resistance.
Recommended paint: Flutex Pro 10
Key strengths:
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highly washable
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excellent durability
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suitable for regular cleaning
Particularly suited for:
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kitchens
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bathrooms
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utility rooms
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children's bedrooms
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professional premises
It is worth noting, however, that a more satin finish reflects more light. Careful surface preparation is therefore essential to avoid highlighting any imperfections.
Technical matt: comfort and air quality
Some paints go beyond decoration by incorporating benefits linked to indoor well-being.
Recommended paint: Dekso Air
In addition to providing an elegant matt finish, this paint helps improve indoor air quality by reducing certain pollutants.
Key benefits:
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modern matt finish
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excellent opacity
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contributes to indoor comfort
Particularly suited for:
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bedrooms
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living rooms
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recently built homes
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poorly ventilated spaces
It is a relevant solution for projects where environmental considerations are an important criterion.
Matt or satin: how do you make the right choice?
This question comes up frequently during a painting project.
Choose a matt finish if:
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your walls have imperfections
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you are looking for a contemporary result
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the room is not heavily exposed to dirt and marks
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aesthetics are your priority
Opt for a satin finish if:
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the walls are subject to heavy use
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frequent cleaning is required
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the room is damp
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durability is your priority
Today, many interiors opt for matt or velvet finishes in the main rooms, reserving satin for utility areas.
A common mistake: using satin throughout
In the interest of durability, some people choose a satin finish for their entire home. However, this approach can have a negative impact on the overall result.
A shinier surface:
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highlights imperfections
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intensifies lighting effects
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can create a less warm atmosphere
Satin should remain a functional choice, used only when practical requirements call for it.
A quick-reference table to help you choose
| Room | Recommended finish | Recommended paint |
|---|---|---|
| Living room | Deep matt | Dekso Ultramat |
| Bedroom | Matt | Dekso Ultramat / Dekso Air |
| Reception room | Light sheen matt | Flutex Pro 5 |
| Hallway | Reinforced velvet | Flutex Pro 7 |
| Kitchen | Satin | Flutex Pro 10 |
| Bathroom | Satin | Flutex Pro 10 |
Expert advice from Pygmalion
To simplify your decision:
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matt prioritises aesthetics
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velvet offers an excellent balance
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satin maximises durability
The key is to match the paint to the actual use of the room.
A well-considered choice ensures a lasting result and instantly enhances your interior.
In summary: which Flügger paint should you choose?
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Dekso Ultramat: for a particularly elegant finish
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Flutex Pro 5: for the ideal balance between aesthetics and durability
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Flutex Pro 7: for high-traffic areas
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Flutex Pro 10: for rooms subject to heavy use
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Dekso Air: for combining a matt finish with improved air quality
The right product is above all the one that suits your lifestyle.
FAQ – Which finish should you choose for your walls?
What is the best finish for a living room?
A deep matt finish is often preferred for its elegance and its ability to conceal surface imperfections.
Is satin more durable than matt?
Yes. The shinier the paint, the more washable and resistant to scuffing it will be.
Can a matt paint be used in a hallway?
It is possible, but a velvet finish will generally offer better durability in a high-traffic area.
Why are imperfections more visible with a satin paint?
Because it reflects more light, which accentuates any irregularities in the surface.
Which paint should you choose for a bedroom?
A deep matt, such as Dekso Ultramat or Dekso Air, creates a soft and contemporary atmosphere.
