While eggshell paint might seem like a simple upgrade in sheen, it actually requires a higher level of wall preparation than flat paint — and that’s where the increased cost comes in.

Flat paint has a matte finish that absorbs light, which helps to hide surface imperfections. It’s forgiving — small dents, nail holes, drywall seams, and uneven textures are much less noticeable under flat paint. That’s why it’s often used in new construction.

Eggshell paint, on the other hand, has a slight sheen — it reflects more light than flat paint. This makes it more durable and washable, which is great for high-traffic areas. However, that same sheen also highlights imperfections in the wall. Every patch, seam, sanding mark, or inconsistency in texture becomes more visible under eggshell, especially in certain lighting conditions (like natural light or side lighting).

To prepare a surface for eggshell paint, drywall must be finished to a Level 4 or even Level 5 finish, which includes:
    •    More thorough skim coating,
    •    Extra sanding for a smoother, more uniform surface,
    •    Careful feathering of joints,
    •    And in some cases, applying a skim coat over the entire surface to eliminate even minor imperfections.

This additional labor and attention to detail are what drive the cost up. It’s not just a matter of changing the paint — it’s about upgrading the entire wall system to meet the higher visual demands of the new finish.