We all know how paint impacts the appearance of our spaces. If you focus on your bedroom, you will likely prefer it to be cozy, warm, and welcoming after a hectic day. So, I want to highlight the importance of paint in our homes. Benjamin Moore and Sherwin Williams are two titans of the paint industry, each offering a rich palette and impressive quality.
Hellena Baker and I consulted experts to consider their opinions and customer reviews to help you find the best option. Choosing between them can be tough, but it’s vital to select a brand that suits your aesthetic vision and practical needs. In this detailed comparison, I’ll highlight the key factors that set these brands apart, helping you make an informed decision.
Renowned interior designer Jane Thompson remarks, “Benjamin Moore is the go-to choice for professionals due to its superior finish and rich color palette. Its commitment to quality and innovation makes it a staple among design aficionados.”
Color expert Mike Lawson praises Sherwin Williams for its reliability and versatility, stating, “Sherwin Williams’ durability and vast color selection make it a favorite for projects with high demands. Their paint’s ability to maintain vibrancy over time is second to none.”
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Overview Table
| Feature | Benjamin Moore | Sherwin Williams |
|---|---|---|
| Coverage | Fewer coats | Fewer coats |
| Durability | High | High |
| Finish Options | Matte, Glossy, Range | Matte, Glossy, Range |
| Ease of Application | Smooth | Smooth |
| Drying Time | Fast | Fast |
| Environmental Impact | Low-VOC, Eco-friendly | Low-VOC, Eco-friendly |
| Price vs. Value | Premium | Premium |
| Color Range | Extensive | Extensive |
Key Factors in Comparing Paint Brands
Coverage
Coverage is crucial when considering time and cost. Both Benjamin Moore and Sherwin Williams offer excellent coverage, but subtle differences can influence your choice. A paint that requires fewer coats saves money and time, allowing you to enjoy your renewed space sooner. Consider the coverage offered by each brand and how it aligns with your painting project.
Durability
Durability matters in high-traffic areas. Paints resistant to chipping, fading, and stains maintain their beauty over time. Both Benjamin Moore and Sherwin Williams excel in this department, with innovative formulas designed to withstand the wear and tear of daily life. For hallways, kitchens, and children’s rooms, durability is paramount.
For high-traffic areas, durability and ease of cleaning are key considerations. Both Sherwin-Williams and Benjamin Moore offer high-quality options, but here are some specific recommendations:
- Sherwin-Williams:
- Duration Home Interior Acrylic Latex: Known for its durability and washability, making it ideal for high-traffic areas.
- Emerald Interior Acrylic Latex: Offers excellent stain resistance and washability.
- Benjamin Moore:
- Aura Interior Paint: Offers superior durability and washability, perfect for high-traffic areas.
- Regal Select Interior Paint: Known for its easy maintenance and durability.
Both brands provide excellent options, but you might choose based on specific needs like color preference, finish, or budget.
Finish Options
The finish you choose can dramatically alter a room’s look and feel. Whether you’re drawn to a matte finish for its understated elegance or a glossy sheen for its reflective quality, both Benjamin Moore and Sherwin Williams offer a range of finishes.
Ease of Application
For DIY enthusiasts, ease of application is key. A paint that glides smoothly can make the painting process enjoyable. Benjamin Moore and Sherwin Williams both offer user-friendly options, but subtle differences in formula can impact application. Consider how the paint behaves on your chosen surface and whether it aligns with your DIY skills.
Drying Time
In fast-paced lives, quicker drying times can be a game-changer. Both brands offer fast-drying options, allowing multiple coats in a single day. This advantage is particularly useful for projects with tight deadlines or when painting high-traffic areas.
Environmental Impact
Low-VOC and eco-friendly paints are becoming increasingly important for indoor projects. Both Benjamin Moore and Sherwin Williams prioritize health-conscious formulations. These paints not only benefit the environment but also enhance indoor air quality, making them ideal for homes with children or pets.
Price vs. Value
The cost of paint often reflects its quality. Benjamin Moore and Sherwin Williams offer premium options that deliver exceptional results. The average price for Sherwin-Williams paint varies depending on the type and finish. For interior paints, prices range from about $76.99 to $98.99 per gallon, while exterior paints range from approximately $80.49 to $122.49 per gallon. On the other hand, The average price for Benjamin Moore paint also varies by type and finish. Interior paints range from about $56.99 to $98.99 per gallon.
Color Range
A wider color selection allows for greater creativity. Benjamin Moore is renowned for its extensive palette, while Sherwin-Williams offers a similarly impressive range. Sherwin-Williams offers over 1,700 paint colors, while Benjamin Moore provides more than 3,500.
Customer Reviews to consider
Sherwin-Williams:
- Mary T. from Taylor, MI: Praised the excellent color matching service at her local store, which perfectly matched her existing paint, requiring only one coat.
- Paul from Bothell, WA: Found the paint easy to work with and had good coverage, but was disappointed with the paint’s longevity in storage and poor customer service when issues arose.
- Linda Bay: Criticized the high prices and felt that the quality did not justify the cost, suggesting that other brands offer similar durability at a lower price.
Benjamin Moore:
- Caleb Clark from Heritage Painting: Reviewed the Benjamin Moore Ben product positively for its excellent coverage and durability, although noted it can be messy due to its loose consistency.
- Reddit User: Mentioned that while the end result was good, the paint initially appeared patchy and required multiple coats.
- PaintTalk Forum User: Expressed dissatisfaction with the quality of Benjamin Moore paint over the past two years, citing issues with consistency and customer service.
These reviews highlight a mix of positive and negative experiences with both brands, focusing on aspects like coverage, durability, and customer service.
Additional Factors to Consider
| Feature | Benjamin Moore | Sherwin Williams |
|---|---|---|
| Adhesion Quality | Surface-specific | Surface-specific |
| Washability | High | High |
| Sheen Retention | Durable | Durable |
| Anti-Mildew/Mold | Yes | Yes |
| Temp & Humidity Tolerance | High | High |
| Primer Requirements | Self-priming options | Self-priming options |
| Warranty | Available | Available |
| Sampling Availability | Yes | Yes |
Adhesion Quality
Specific paints are better suited for certain surfaces like wood, metal, or drywall. Consider the unique properties of Benjamin Moore and Sherwin Williams paints to ensure optimal adhesion, creating a flawless finish that lasts.
Washability and Stain Resistance
For rooms prone to spills and messes, washability is key. Paints that can withstand scrubbing without losing their luster are essential for spaces like kitchens and children’s rooms. Both brands offer options that maintain their beauty, even in the face of everyday challenges.
Sheen Retention
High-traffic areas need paints that retain their sheen over time. Benjamin Moore and Sherwin Williams provide solutions that stand up to wear, ensuring your chosen finish remains vibrant and fresh.
Anti-Mildew and Anti-Mold Properties
Moisture-prone areas like bathrooms and basements require specialized paints. Anti-mildew and anti-mold formulations from both brands offer protection, ensuring your spaces remain safe and healthy.
Temperature and Humidity Tolerance
For areas with fluctuating climate conditions, consider paints with superior temperature and humidity tolerance. Both Benjamin Moore and Sherwin Williams excel in providing reliable solutions, ensuring paint longevity regardless of environmental challenges.
Primer Requirements
Self-priming paints can streamline your painting process. While both brands offer options that reduce the need for additional primer, understanding when an extra layer is necessary ensures a flawless finish.
Warranty and Guarantee
A brand that stands by its product provides peace of mind. Explore the warranties and guarantees offered by Benjamin Moore and Sherwin Williams, ensuring your investment is protected.
Sampling Availability
Sample sizes allow you to test colors and finishes before committing. Both brands offer this advantage, making it easier to achieve your desired look without unexpected surprises.
Specialty Considerations
| Feature | Benjamin Moore | Sherwin Williams |
|---|---|---|
| Reflectivity | Enhances/subdues light | Enhances/subdues light |
| UV Resistance | High | High |
| Odor Levels | Low/Zero-odor | Low/Zero-odor |
| Blending/Tinting | Customizable | Customizable |
| Tool Compatibility | Recommended tools available | Recommended tools available |
| Scrubbability | High | High |
| Temp Range for Application | Optimized for conditions | Optimized for conditions |
Reflectivity and Light Interaction
Paint affects room brightness and glare, particularly for spaces with natural light. Consider how Benjamin Moore and Sherwin Williams paints interact with your space, enhancing or subduing natural illumination to create your desired ambiance.
UV Resistance
For exterior paint and rooms with direct sunlight, UV resistance is crucial. Both brands offer solutions that protect against fading, maintaining color vibrancy over time.
Odor Levels
Low-odor or zero-odor paints are ideal for sensitive areas. Both Benjamin Moore and Sherwin Williams provide options that minimize disruption, making them perfect for homes with children or pets.
Blending and Tinting Options
Color customization is a hallmark of Benjamin Moore and Sherwin Williams. Their in-store tinting services allow you to achieve the perfect shade, ensuring a harmonious and personalized palette.
Tool Compatibility
The right tools can make a significant difference in achieving smooth results. Explore recommended tools for each brand to enhance your painting experience.
Scrubbability
Scrubbable paints are invaluable in high-traffic or messy areas. Both brands offer options that withstand cleaning, maintaining their appearance even under stress.
Temperature Range for Application
Understanding the best conditions for paint adhesion ensures a successful project. Both Benjamin Moore and Sherwin Williams provide guidelines to optimize results, especially for exterior projects.
In the end, after considering expert opinions and customer reviews, both Benjamin Moore and Sherwin Williams offer exceptional quality and a range of choices to suit any project. While Benjamin Moore boasts an impressive color palette and eco-friendly options, Sherwin Williams excels in durability and innovation.
