30/03/2026
Most decorators try to talk customers out of using silk and push them towards eggshell or durable matt instead.
At one point, silk was a popular choice amongst homeowners. It has a lot of polymer binder in it, making it durable and waterproof, which on paper is perfect for kitchens, bathrooms, and high-traffic areas.
However, it does highlight imperfections in plasterwork and can contribute towards defects like flashing or bubbling. Besides that, the high-sheen finish is less desirable than it used to be.
Your local Dulux Decorator Centre will be able to advise you on the best alternatives to silk, depending on the job in hand. It might be that they guide you towards their new Kitchen and Bathroom Eggshell, which is durable, waterproof, and has added mould protection. Or Dulux Trade Diamond Matt, which is low-sheen, perfect for high-traffic areas, and gives a very desirable finish for modern homes. They also have a slightly cheaper range called Armstead, which offers trade-quality paints at a more affordable price.
You’re always going to pay slightly more for trade paint, but the quality is far superior, and the advice you get at a professional trade counter is invaluable.
