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Ultimate Guide: How to Choose the Right Paint Brand and Product

If it’s time to paint your home, the choice of paint can make a significant difference in the outcome. With countless brands and products available, navigating the endless aisles of paint brands on the market can be overwhelming. This overview will help you understand the key paint brands in the paint industry, their standout products, and how to choose the right paint brand and product for your needs.

There is significant competition for market share amongst the top players, consequently the formulation of paints changes often. Always ask an experienced supplier for updated recommendations on what to use for your project.

I’ve loved to paint from a very young age and have been a professional painter for over 17 years. I still regularly ask my supplier what they recommend for unique circumstances and whether a new product will meet my needs.

best paint brands

Top Paint Brands

  1. Benjamin Moore This is our go-to paint
    • Overview: Renowned for its premium paints, extensive colour palette, and superior performance.
    • Top Products:
      • Aura: High-end paint offering excellent coverage, durability, and colour retention. This product has increased pigmentation producing rich, perfect colours from any palette
      • Regal Select: Known for its ease of application, smooth finish, mildew resistance, and washability.
      • Ben: A less expensive option, providing good coverage and ease of use.
      • Ultra-spec: A more affordable option, providing good coverage used by builders and landlords needing to repaint frequently.
  2. Sherwin-Williams
    • Overview: One of the largest names in the industry, known for high-quality products and excellent customer service.
    • Top Products:
      • SuperPaint: Offers good coverage, durability, and a wide range of colours.
      • Emerald: Premium line, known for exceptional coverage, washability, and resistance to fading.
      • Duration Home: Features advanced stain-blocking technology and excellent washability.
  3. Behr
    • Overview: Available at Home Depot, Behr is praised for its affordability and high performance.
    • Top Products:
      • Marquee: Offers one-coat coverage, durability, and resistance to dirt and grime.
      • Premium Plus Ultra: Features paint and primer in one, providing excellent coverage and a long-lasting finish.
      • Behr Dynasty: Known for its ultra-durable finish and stain-blocking properties.
  4. Valspar
    • Overview: Known for its affordability and accessibility. Available at Lowe’s.
    • Top Products:
      • Signature: Provides excellent coverage and resistance to stains and mildew.
      • Reserve: Premium option offering exceptional durability and a smooth finish.
      • Ultra: Budget-friendly choice with good coverage and a wide colour selection.
  5. Farrow & Ball
    • Overview: British brand known for its eco-friendly paints and unique, historical colour palette. Often recommended by designers looking to achieve a specific finish
    • Top Products:
      • Estate Emulsion: Offers a rich, chalky finish and excellent depth of colour.
      • Modern Emulsion: Provides a more durable, washable finish, ideal for high-traffic areas.
      • Estate Eggshell: Suitable for woodwork and metal, offering a smooth, low-sheen finish.

how to choose the best paint brand for your project

Key Factors to Consider

In order help you choose the right paint brand and product for your needs, you’ll need to consider a few factors:

  1. Coverage
    • Look for paints that offer good coverage to reduce the number of coats needed. High-quality paints like Sherwin-Williams Emerald and Benjamin Moore Aura provides excellent coverage.
  2. Durability
    • Consider where the paint will be applied. For high-traffic areas, choose paints with high durability such as Benjamin Moore Regal Select or Valspar Reserve.
  3. Finish
    • Different finishes are suitable for different areas. Matte and flat finishes are ideal for low-traffic areas and ceilings, while satin and semi-gloss are better for high-traffic areas and trim.
  4. Washability
    • For families with children or pets, washable paints like Sherwin-Williams Duration Home or Benjamin Moore Regal Select are great choices.
  5. Eco-Friendliness
    • If environmental impact is a concern, opt for low-VOC (volatile organic compounds) or eco-friendly options like Farrow & Ball or Benjamin Moore Natura.

When painting your “Forever Home,” choose a top-line product so your hard work will last a long time. Premium paints can last 10 years or more, so the additional cost is well worth it.

Choosing the right paint brand and product can elevate your paint project from good to great. By understanding the strengths of different brands and products, you can make informed decisions that suit your specific needs. Whether you prioritize coverage, durability, washability, or eco-friendliness, this overview can help you navigate the diverse world of paint options. Don’t hesitate to ask a trusted retailer or feel free ask your favourite professional – we’ll respond to your inquiry!

Happy painting!