Their properties will be similar to the equivalent paint, although drying and re-coat times are generally shorter than for corresponding paints. Varnishes are also available in gloss, satin and matt versions, and as solvent or water-borne products. Brushes and rollers may be cleaned in water and detergent. Drying and overcoating times vary, but are generally shorter than for traditional solvent-borne gloss finishes. These are quick drying and generally low-odour. Modern water-borne (water-based) gloss paints are now also available in most DIY and trade outlets. Brushes and rollers need to be cleaned using white spirit or brush cleaner. Traditional gloss paints are solvent-borne (solvent-based) (see ' What is the difference between water-based and solvent-based paints ?' ) Surfaces are tack-free in about 4-6 hours but should be left overnight before a second coat is applied. Although gloss paints are on the market that require no undercoat, unless otherwise stated surfaces should be suitably primed and undercoated. Gloss paints may be found which are specifically manufactured for exterior use. These are generally used on wood or metal surfaces. Gloss is suitable for interior and exterior and is used as a protective coating in the decorating market. Brushes and rollers may be cleaned in water.

Water-based eggshell finishes are generally quick drying and low-odour. Surfaces are tack-free in about 4-6 hours but should be left overnight before a second coat is applied. Traditional eggshell finishes are solvent based. It is touch dry in about 2 hours and a second coat may be applied after about 4 hours. Silk (emulsion), also known as satin finish, is suitable for interior walls and ceilings.

Further coats may be applied after about 4 hours. Matt emulsion is suitable for ceilings and walls, including plasterboard, fibre insulating board, hardboard, brick, cement rendering, stucco, foamed polystyrene and most wallpaper. They have, however, also come to be associated with a type of product. The terms: gloss, satin, silk, eggshell and matt strictly speaking, refer to the level of sheen of a product. What is meant by matt, gloss, silk and satin finishes and what are the typical uses of these paints? (Click here for a list of manufacturers of these paints.) What is meant by matt, gloss, silk and satin finishes and what are the typical uses of these paints. Matt, gloss, silk, satin - what do they mean?

Slik finish