When it comes to choosing the right paint for a professional painting job, it's not just about selecting any brand or type. Professional painters have a clear understanding of what makes a good paint, allowing them to deliver high-quality results that stand the test of time. But what exactly do they look for, and what brands do they trust?
Professional painters prioritize durability, coverage, and application ease when selecting paints. This goes beyond personal preference—it's about using products that ensure a smooth finish and maximum longevity for their clients' surfaces.
Key Factors Professional Painters Consider
When deciding on a paint, professional painters consider several key factors that set quality paints apart from their lower-end counterparts.
Durability and Longevity
For painters, longevity isn't just a buzzword. They need paints that can withstand the test of time and daily wear and tear. This is why most professionals opt for acrylic or latex paints, which offer robust durability and resistance to cracking, peeling, and fading.
Coverage and Hide
Professional painters look for paints that provide excellent coverage and hide, reducing the need for multiple coats. Better coverage means less time and labor, allowing professionals to deliver more efficient and cost-effective services to their clients.
Top Paint Brands Preferred by Professionals
With numerous paint brands available, it's crucial for professionals to know which ones consistently provide high-quality results. Here are some brands favored by painters:
Benjamin Moore
Many professional painters regard Benjamin Moore as the gold standard. It offers an extensive range of high-quality paints with excellent coverage and durability, such as Aura and Regal Select. Its zero-VOC Colors of Ben line is also favored for eco-conscious projects.
Sherwin-Williams
Sherwin-Williams is another popular choice among professionals. Its paint lines, like Duration Home Interior and ProMar 400, provide outstanding durability and coverage. Plus, their color matching system is renowned for its accuracy.
Behr
Behr, a Home Depot staple, is also favored by many professionals. Its Premium Plus Ultra and Ultra lines deliver superior durability and coverage. Additionally, Behr's MARQUEE line is praised for its one-coat coverage, saving pros both time and money.
Special Considerations for Specific Surfaces
While the above factors are essential, professional painters also understand that certain surfaces require specialized paints for optimal results.
Exterior Surfaces
For exterior surfaces, professionals often opt for 100% acrylic latex paints, which offer excellent durability, resistance to fading, and protection against moisture and mold. Brands likeBenjamin Moore's Aura andSherwin-Williams' Duration Exterior are popular choices.
High-traffic Interiors
For high-traffic interiors, such as hallways, stairs, and kids' rooms, professional painters may use scrubbable, easy-to-clean paints. Behr's Premium Plus line and Sherwin-Williams' ProClassic are favored for their washability and durability.
In the world of professional painting, using the right tools and materials is non-negotiable. By understanding and appreciating the factors that make a good paint and selecting reliable brands, professional painters ensure their clients get nothing but the best results. So, whether you're a homeowner embarking on a DIY project or hiring a professional, knowing what painters look for can help you make informed decisions about the essential tools of the trade.