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Sherwin Williams vs. Benjamin Moore: Which Paint Brand Is Right for You?

If you’re planning to paint your home, you’ve probably come across two of the biggest names in the paint world: Sherwin Williams and Benjamin Moore. Both brands are trusted by homeowners and professionals alike, but how do they compare? 

Which one is better for your project? Let’s break it down in simple terms so you can make the best choice for your interior painting project.

Quality of Paint

Both Sherwin Williams and Benjamin Moore are known for their high-quality paints, but there are some differences.

  • Sherwin Williams: This brand is famous for its durability and long-lasting results. Their paints are designed to withstand wear and tear, making them ideal for high-traffic areas like kitchens and hallways.
  • Benjamin Moore: Known for its rich and vibrant colors, Benjamin Moore paints offer excellent coverage. Their colors often require fewer coats, which can save you time and money.
Both brands deliver excellent results, but your choice may depend on whether you prioritize durability (Sherwin Williams) or color richness (Benjamin Moore).

Color Selection

Paint colors can make or break a space, and both brands offer a wide range of shades.

  • Sherwin Williams: With over 1,700 colors, Sherwin Williams provides options for every style. They also have tools like the ColorSnap app, which helps you visualize colors in your space before making a decision.
  • Benjamin Moore: While Benjamin Moore offers slightly fewer colors (about 3,500), their shades are often described as more refined. Their popular Aura and Regal Select lines are known for creating a smooth, even finish with rich, true-to-life hues.
If you’re someone who needs a lot of color inspiration, either brand will give you plenty to work with.

Ease of Use

No one wants to struggle with streaks or uneven coverage when painting.

  • Sherwin Williams: Their paints are generally thicker, which means they don’t drip as much. This makes them beginner-friendly, especially for DIY projects.
  • Benjamin Moore: Their paints glide on smoothly and tend to require fewer coats, which can save you time. Professionals often rave about how easy Benjamin Moore paints are to work with.
If you’re painting yourself, Sherwin Williams might feel easier to control. If you’re hiring professionals, they may appreciate the smooth application of Benjamin Moore.

Price Comparison

Let’s talk numbers.

  • Sherwin Williams: Paint from Sherwin Williams is typically more affordable, especially if you catch one of their frequent sales. Their mid-range options, like the SuperPaint line, deliver excellent results without breaking the bank.
  • Benjamin Moore: Known for its premium quality, Benjamin Moore tends to be more expensive. Their high-end Aura line is pricey but offers top-notch performance, especially for areas like bathrooms where moisture resistance is key.
If you’re on a tight budget, Sherwin Williams might be the better choice. If you’re willing to splurge for premium results, Benjamin Moore won’t disappoint.

Availability

Access to the brand you choose matters too.

  • Sherwin Williams: With stores nationwide, Sherwin Williams is easy to find. Their dedicated stores mean you’ll always get expert advice on their products.
  • Benjamin Moore: Sold through independent retailers, Benjamin Moore can be a bit harder to track down. However, their smaller stores often provide personalized customer service that’s hard to beat.
If convenience is key, Sherwin Williams’ widespread presence gives it an edge.

Eco-Friendliness

Caring for the environment is important, and both brands are taking steps to be greener.

  • Sherwin Williams: Their Harmony line is low in VOCs (volatile organic compounds) and designed for healthier indoor air quality.
  • Benjamin Moore: Their Natura and Regal Select lines are also low-VOC and eco-friendly. In fact, Benjamin Moore has won awards for its commitment to sustainability.
Both brands are great choices if you’re looking for environmentally friendly paint options.

Specialty Paint Options

For unique needs, both brands offer specialty paints designed to tackle specific challenges.

  • Sherwin Williams: Their Emerald Urethane Trim Enamel is a fantastic choice for doors, trim, and cabinets, offering a smooth and durable finish. They also have the Extreme Bond Primer for challenging surfaces like glass or metal.
  • Benjamin Moore: The Advance line is a standout for cabinets and furniture, providing the perfect balance of durability and a furniture-like finish. For bathrooms and kitchens, their Aura Bath & Spa line offers superior moisture resistance.

These specialty lines can make a big difference in achieving a professional-quality look for specific areas of your home.

Tips for Choosing the Right Brand

Still unsure which paint to choose? Here are a few tips to help:

  1. Think About Your Space: Are you painting a high-traffic area like a hallway or a kitchen? Or is it a low-traffic space like a guest room? This can influence whether durability or finish is more important.
  2. Set Your Budget: If you’re on a budget, Sherwin Williams offers more affordable options. But if you’re ready to invest in premium quality, Benjamin Moore might be worth the splurge.
  3. Consider Application: DIY painters might appreciate Sherwin Williams’ thicker consistency, while professionals often gravitate toward Benjamin Moore for its ease of application and fewer required coats.
  4. Ask for Advice: Don’t hesitate to reach out to a local painting company like New Direction Painting. Their expertise can guide you to the best choice for your specific needs.

Top Products to Consider

Here’s a quick rundown of some popular paints from both brands:

  • Sherwin Williams:
    • SuperPaint: Affordable and durable, perfect for walls and ceilings.
    • Emerald: High-end, washable, and excellent for humid areas like bathrooms.
    • Duration: Designed for maximum durability in high-traffic spaces.
  • Benjamin Moore:
    • Aura: Offers incredible color depth and is perfect for kitchens and bathrooms.
    • Regal Select: A versatile choice for any room, with excellent coverage and easy application.
    • Ben: A budget-friendly option that still delivers great results for smaller projects.

Which One Should You Choose?

Ultimately, the right choice depends on your specific needs:

  • If you’re focused on durability and affordability, Sherwin Williams is a solid choice.
  • If you value color depth and premium quality, Benjamin Moore might be worth the extra cost.

FAQs

Sherwin Williams is often easier for beginners due to its thicker consistency and forgiving application.
Sherwin Williams’ SuperPaint and Benjamin Moore’s Ben line are both great budget-friendly choices.
Both brands offer excellent low-VOC options, but Benjamin Moore’s Natura line is often highlighted for its sustainability.
Yes! Both Sherwin Williams and Benjamin Moore have excellent exterior paint options that are durable and weather-resistant.
Absolutely! Sherwin Williams has the ColorSnap app, while Benjamin Moore offers the Color Portfolio app. Both are great for visualizing colors in your space.

Let New Direction Painting Help You Decide

Choosing between Sherwin Williams and Benjamin Moore can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. At New Direction Painting, we’ve worked extensively with both brands and can guide you to the best option for your interior painting project.

Whether you need a durable finish for a busy family home or vibrant colors to make your space pop, we’ll ensure your vision comes to life. Contact us today at (615) 673-5773 , and let’s start transforming your home into the space of your dreams!