When it comes to exterior paint, two leading brands, Benjamin Moore and Sherwin-Williams, consistently top the lists. But the question remains: is Benjamin Moore's exterior paint as good as Sherwin-Williams? Both brands have their strengths, and the best choice depends on your specific needs.
Benjamin Moore, renowned for their high-quality interior paints, has made significant strides in their exterior offerings. Their Aura line, for instance, is lauded for its durability and vibrant colors. Meanwhile, Sherwin-Williams is celebrated for its prolongevity and vast color palette. Let's delve into the details to help you make an informed decision.
Paint Performance and Durability
Benjamin Moore's Aura exterior paint is no lightweight. It's formulated to withstand UV rays, moisture, and extreme temperatures, with a 10-year warranty to back its durability claims. The paint also dries to a uniform, smooth finish, resisting fading and mildew growth.
On the other hand, Sherwin-Williams' SuperPaint is designed with Duration technology, boasting exceptional adhesion, stain resistance, and UV protection. It comes with a 25-year warranty, a testament to its longevity and weather-resistance.
Color Selection and Vibrancy
Benjamin Moore offers a wide range of colors with their Exterior Aura line, including deep, vibrant hues that can beautifully enhance your home's curb appeal. Their colors are known for their rich, consistent saturation.
Sherwin-Williams, with its vast palette of over 1,500 colors, is also a leader in color selection. Their colors are vibrant and consistent, and they have an excellent color-matching system to cater to specific needs.
Ease of Application and Cost
Both brands received similar ratings for ease of application. Benjamin Moore's Aura is known for its excellent coverage and smooth application, while Sherwin-Williams' SuperPaint offers good coverage and a quick drying time.
The cost, however, can vary, with Benjamin Moore's Aura often priced slightly higher than Sherwin-Williams' SuperPaint. But remember, investing in quality can often save in the long run, given their durability and longevity.
Weather-Resistant Features
Benjamin Moore's Aura is infused with a proprietary ingredient that resists settling and yellowing, ensuring your exterior paint job maintains its fresh look over time. It's also mildew-resistant, a crucial feature for humid regions.
Sherwin-Williams' SuperPaint, infused with their proprietary Aluminum Oxide, resists fading and peeling, offering excellent protection against harsh weather conditions. It's also mildew-resistant, making it a suitable choice for different climates.
Eco-Friendliness
Benjamin Moore is committed to sustainability, offering a range of low- and zero-VOC (Volatile Organic Compounds) options. Their eco-friendly choices make them an excellent pick for environmentally conscious homeowners.
Sherwin-Williams also offers low- and zero-VOC options, demonstrating their commitment to reducing emissions without compromising on product performance.
In essence, both Benjamin Moore and Sherwin-Williams offer high-quality exterior paints with their unique strengths. The best choice depends on your preferences, from color selection to weather resistance, ease of application, and eco-friendliness. Whichever you choose, investing in a quality exterior paint will ensure your home's curb appeal stands the test of time.