Inherent finish provides natural finish because further work no needed for example materials such as timber, stone, brick and glass. Applied finishes are materials such as types of paint or plaster to timber or walls. A variety of finishes in terms of colour, made, textures, style are available.

Surface finishing materials are paints, varnishes, distempers and white/colour washing. The surfaces may be plastered wall surfaces, ceilings, wooden surfaces, metallic surfaces, etc. These surface finishing materials have to provide a hygienic surface and present a healthy surrounding to live in.