Eggshell, satinwood and gloss for woodwork.
Skirting boards, doors, frames and stairs all need a harder-wearing finish than wall emulsion, and the choice between eggshell, satinwood and gloss (Screwfix's eggshell ranges are a common trade pick) makes a real difference to how the room looks and lasts.
The three finishes, side by side.
Gloss gives a high-shine, traditional look and a genuinely hard-wearing surface, but shows every brush mark and surface imperfection underneath it. Satinwood sits in between — a soft sheen that's more forgiving on less-than-perfect timber. Eggshell has become the popular modern choice: a low, subtle sheen that reads as contemporary and hides minor flaws well, now widely used on doors and skirting instead of gloss.
Water-based vs solvent-based.
Most eggshell and satinwood today is water-based (“acrylic”) — quicker drying, low odour, and it won't yellow over time the way old-style solvent gloss can, particularly on white woodwork. Solvent-based finishes still level slightly better by hand and remain tougher in some heavy-use spots, but for most homes a good water-based eggshell is the practical choice.
Getting a smooth, brush-mark-free coat.
The finish lives or dies on prep: a light sand between coats, a suitable primer/undercoat on bare or stripped wood, and thin, even coats laid off in the direction of the grain. Rushing this is why DIY woodwork often looks patchy or shows every roller stipple — professional spraying is an option for a factory-smooth result on doors and cabinetry.
Choosing the right finish for your home.
There's no single correct answer — period properties often suit a soft satinwood or gloss, modern homes lean towards eggshell throughout. We can talk you through what will work with your woodwork's condition and your home's style, then get it applied cleanly. Get a free quote and we'll recommend the right finish before we start.
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