Introduction
Choosing the right paint for your home can be an overwhelming process. With so many brands, sheens, qualities, and prices to consider, it’s hard to know which paint is truly worth your money. The goal is to find a top-quality paint that enhances your space beautifully and lasts a long time, without spending more than your budget allows. This comprehensive guide will walk you through all the factors to consider when selecting paint, so you can make the optimal choice for your needs and get the most value for your money. Read on to get the inside scoop on finding the best paint for your next painting project.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Paint
Location and Purpose
- Consider the room the paint will be used in – higher traffic areas may warrant more durable paint
- Outdoor paints need to withstand weathering from sun, rain, snow etc.
- Certain paint finishes like high-gloss are better for bathrooms and kitchens where moisture and cleaning are frequent
Paint Base
- Latex-based paints are most common today – offer smooth application, low odor, and easy soap-and-water cleanup
- Oil-based paints are more durable and glossy but have stronger odor and require solvent for cleaning up
Finish and Sheen
- Flat/matte finishes are great for hiding imperfections but prone to scuffing
- Eggshell provides subtle sheen and stands up well to washing
- Satin delivers a smooth, light gloss while still being fairly scrubbable
- Semi-gloss and gloss are very reflective, ideal for highlighting architectural details
Paint Quality
- Higher priced paints generally have more pigments for better coverage and longer-lasting color
- Budget paints contain more fillers which can affect durability and hide less effectively
- Check the percentage of solids by volume – higher is better
Color Selection
- Opt for lighter, neutral colors for large walls and ceilings to brighten up space
- Use darker, saturated hues for accents to define areas without overwhelming
- Peruse paint brand color cards/chips to find perfect shades
Specialty Paint Types
- Primer seals porous surfaces for improved topcoat adhesion and coverage
- Stains for wood transparently accentuate grain while offering protection
- Enamels provide ultra-hard, glossy surfaces ideal for trimwork and cabinets
- Antimicrobial paints contain agents to inhibit mold and bacteria growth
Smart Shopping Strategies for Paint Supplies
Buy in Bulk When Possible
Stock up on paint when it’s on sale. Larger quantities often have lower price-per-gallon. Just be sure you can store extra properly before it’s needed.
Don’t Overbuy Paint
Calculate the square footage of your walls and ceilings to determine how much paint is required. Buying too much is wasteful. Underbuying can result in mismatched colors.
Reuse and Recycle
Check for leftover paint from previous projects when planning a new one. Many stores also accept old paint for recycling.
Use Coupons and Loyalty Programs
Sign up for paint brand and home improvement store loyalty programs to earn discounts. Seek out coupons online or in flyers/mailers.
Buy Store Brand Paint
House brands like Behr at Home Depot and Glidden at Lowes are quality paints at lower prices than name brand counterparts.
Purchase Paint Supplies in a Combo
Many retailers offer gallon-paint-and-tray combos, 5-gallon bucket sales, and variety brush packs.
Use Paint Comparison Tools
Websites like Behr.com and HGTV.com allow you to virtually preview paint colors on walls before you buy.
Quality Paint Doesn’t Have to Break the Bank
While premium paints provide exceptional performance and durability, there are still quality options available at lower price points. Here are some strategies for keeping paint purchases within budget:
- Opt for mid-range paint lines from reputable brands, avoiding the most expensive options
- Look for sales, bulk pricing options, and retailer coupons to get deals
- For less used spaces like closets, buy budget paint lines
- Purchase paint and primer combo products rather than separate primer
- For small touch-ups, use less costly quart sizes instead of full gallons
- Stick to lower-priced flat or eggshell sheens instead of satin and gloss
- Retail store brand paints offer quality comparable to big names for less
- Buy paint in the winter off-season when demand is lower and sales more likely
With some savvy shopping techniques, you can find great paint that looks fantastic, lasts through wear and tear, and still goes easy on your wallet. Don’t overpay for more paint than you need, but focus on investing in quality products suitable for each application. Take the time to make thoughtful choices and you’ll achieve beautiful, budget-friendly results.
Get the Scoop on Finding the Best Paint for Your Money
When starting a paint project, it’s essential to understand what factors make up a quality product before comparing brands and costs. Here are the key considerations in selecting top performing paint for the money:
- Pigment volume – Higher percentages yield better hide and durability
- Resin type – Acrylic resins excel in adhesion and weather-resistance
- Thickness – More viscous paints provide better coverage with fewer coats
- Finish options – Range of sheens available for different needs
- Warranties/guarantees – Better paints provide assurances of satisfaction
- Price per gallon – Consider full cost, not just sticker price
- Brand reputation – Established names like Benjamin Moore boast years of experience
Look for mid to upper tier paint lines from leading manufacturers like Sherwin Williams and Behr. Talk to sales associates about the best choices for your particular project. The right combination of quality and value is out there! Invest wisely in paint selections for enduring beauty and protection that will enhance your space for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions About Choosing Paint
What are the different finishes/sheens I can choose from in paint?
The most common paint finishes include flat/matte, eggshell, satin, semi-gloss, and high gloss. Flat has no shine and hides flaws well but is harder to clean. Eggshell has subtle shine. Satin is moderately shiny. Semi-gloss has high shine to highlight architectural details. High gloss has a brilliant, mirror-like shine.
How many gallons of paint will I need?
Measure wall square footage by multiplying height x width for each wall. Ceilings are length x width. Total and divide by the square feet covered by one gallon listed on the paint can. Add 10-20% extra for final calculation.
Is it okay to mix different brands of paint?
It’s best not to mix brands for continuous surfaces as the paint formulas differ and may not provide uniform results in color, texture, and performance.
How long does it take for paint to dry between coats?
Many latex paints are dry to the touch in 1-2 hours but need 4+ hours drying before recoating. Oil-based paints take up to 24 hours between coats. Check your paint label. Cooler temps, higher humidity, and poor ventilation extend drying times.
Should I use primer before painting?
Priming first provides excellent prep for topcoat adhesion over drywall, wood, stains, metals, plaster, and more. Some latex paints contain built-in primer. In general, separate primer is recommended for best results.
What precautions should I take when painting?
- Ventilate well when painting indoors and wear a respirator
- Handle paint cans carefully and use drip sheets and drop cloths
- Keep paint away from kids and pets while wet
- Seal containers and clean brushes when stopping to avoid drying
Conclusion
Choosing the ideal paint involves considering the surface, location, your budget, and the needs of the project. Focus on quality over cost alone – higher priced paints often justify their price tags through better coverage, durability, and longevity. Leverage knowledgeable paint retailer staff, virtual colors apps, and reviews to select products perfect for your purpose. Wise prep and application techniques also ensure paint performs optimally. Investing thoughtfully in top quality paint and applying it properly will pay off for years through amplified home beauty, protection, and enjoyment of your freshly painted spaces. Happy painting!
