Choosing the perfect paint involves more than just picking out the right shade or finish. The brand of paint matters too. Two of the most popular brands in the US are Behr and Sherwin-Williams. Both brands offer a wide range of products suitable for different needs and budgets. Even choosing between two whites, like Alabaster vs Greek Villa, can change how your room looks
So, when the time comes to choose a brand, how do you decide which of the two is right for your project? Well, that’s where this article comes in! Since most people find it difficult to choose between the two, I have prepared a detailed analysis to settle the Behr vs Sherwin-Williams debate once and for all!
Sherwin-Williams: A Brief Introduction
Founded by Henry Sherwin and Edward Williams in 1866, Sherwin-Williams is a Cleveland-based company that manufactures and sells paints, industrial coatings, floor coverings, and other related products. Sherwin-Williams sells its products mainly at its 5,000+ company-owned stores located in the US, Canada, and Latin American and Caribbean countries.
Behr: A Brief Introduction
Behr is a California-based company founded in 1947 by Otho Behr, Jr. In 1999, home improvement products company Masco Corporation bought it. Behr produces paints, primers, wood stains and finishes, tools, and applicators for indoor and outdoor projects. Behr sells its products exclusively through big-box retailers like Home Depot.
Behr vs Sherwin-Williams: Understanding the Difference
Since both Sherwin-Williams and Behr offer similar products like exterior and interior paints, finishes, and coatings, many homeowners get confused when choosing between the two brands. The key differences include cost, coverage, durability, and more, and we’ll examine them in detail below to help you decide which is better.
Price
The first thing people check before starting any painting project is the paint price.
When comparing Behr and Sherwin-Williams, Behr is clearly the more affordable option. Sherwin-Williams is definitely much pricier, priced well above $50.
A gallon of Behr paint is usually priced under $50.
Key Takeaway: Behr paint may appeal to those prioritizing affordability, while Sherwin-Williams may be worth considering for those willing to pay more for better quality.
Coverage
The next factor to consider is coverage. Coverage refers to the area a specific amount of paint can cover with a single coat. Sometimes, you may need to apply multiple coats to hide the old color underneath. This factor needs special consideration as it determines how many gallons of paint will be required for the paint job.
Both Behr and Sherwin-Williams claim 400 sq ft per gallon of coverage.
Of the two, however, Sherwin-Williams is most likely to give excellent coverage with just one coat.
Key Takeaway: Coverage from Behr and Sherwin-Williams will matter when you make a major color change. For instance, applying a light-colored paint over a dark or uneven-colored wall might work best with Sherwin-Williams paints.
Ease of Application
When comparing Behr vs Sherwin-Williams paints, check which one is easier to apply. The paint should spread smoothly and evenly and create minimal splatter when applied with a brush or roller.
For beginners starting DIY projects, Behr is the better option because its slightly thicker consistency makes it easier to control.
Sherwin-Williams has a smooth consistency, ideal for painting professionals and contractors.
Key Takeaway: Behr is perfect if you’re a DIY enthusiast planning to paint your bedroom with a roller or paintbrush over the weekend. If you’re painting furniture or a door and have prior experience, choose Sherwin-Williams.
Durability
Durability is yet another key factor. The question most people ask is, “Will the paint withstand wear and tear, hot and cold climates, rain, etc.?” No one wants to keep painting their home every year.
Most experts agree that Sherwin-Williams paint lasts longer than Behr.
Behr paint on walls may not withstand harsh elements in the long run and may require occasional touch-ups.
Key Takeaway: Use Sherwin-Williams paints for high-traffic spaces, such as hallways, and for exterior walls that get heavy sun exposure.
Color Accuracy
Sometimes, the paint may not match the color selected from the color card. Based on my experience with home improvement projects that require different paint colors, color accuracy leans a bit toward Sherwin-Williams paints, since they are mixed and sealed in the factory. There is no chance of human error.
Behr paints are manually mixed in-store, and the final color depends heavily on the expertise of the store workers.
Key Takeaway: If you need specific paint shades, choose Sherwin-Williams; Behr will do just fine.
VOC (Volatile Organic Compounds) Content
Formaldehyde, benzene, xylene, etc., are common VOCs found in many paints. These chemicals usually act as solvents, helping keep the paint in liquid form and prolonging shelf life. They are released into the air as the paint dries after application.
High levels of VOCs in indoor air could be detrimental to one’s health. Short-term exposure may cause headaches, rashes, nausea, etc., while long-term exposure may result in respiratory issues, organ damage, and so on.
While comparing Behr vs Sherwin-Williams indoor paints, we found that Sherwin-Williams offers many paints with a ‘zero’ VOC rating, while Behr offers a few with a ‘zero’ VOC rating and most with a ‘low’ VOC rating.
Key Takeaway: Use Behr paints for outdoor spaces. You can paint kids’ rooms, bedrooms, etc. with Sherwin-Williams paints.
Scrubbability
Scrubbability is another crucial factor in determining which of these two brands is the better option. Scrubbability refers to a painted surface’s ability to withstand repeated washing or scrubbing without losing its original color or finish. Paints with good scrubbability can withstand regular maintenance without peeling or fading.
Sherwin-Williams paints perform much better in this regard than Behr paints. Their paints are durable enough to withstand repeated scrubbing and cleaning.
Key Takeaway: Sherwin-Williams is ideal for rooms likely to get messy, like kitchens and kids’ bedrooms.
Purpose
Both Sherwin-Williams and Behr have a wide range of products for different painting needs. If you have a demanding project that requires exceptional coverage and finish, Sherwin-Williams is the paint for you. Most contractors swear by this brand’s overall quality, and they prefer it for professional paint jobs.
Behr, on the other hand, DIY homeowners often choose because they prefer shopping for supplies at big-box retail stores like Home Depot.
Key Takeaway: Behr is easy to find, and it’s great for weekend projects. Use Sherwin-Williams paint for larger, long-term projects.
Behr vs Sherwin-Williams: Who’s the Winner?
Let’s simplify what we’ve discovered so far about these two brands and take a brief look at the pros and cons.
Sherwin-Williams: For high-end paint jobs, I recommend Sherwin-Williams. Most of the time, a single coat is enough, and it is durable enough to withstand wear and tear. For indoor use, its zero VOC value is what makes it appealing, especially if you are painting sensitive areas like a child’s nursery. The only downside is the higher price.
Behr: For DIY enthusiasts on a budget, I’d recommend Behr, especially if you are a beginner. It’s affordable. There are plenty of colors to choose from; it’s a bit easy to apply, and the coverage is usually decent. The main issue would be durability. Exterior paint may need a touch-up or two over time.
Ultimately, the best brand depends on the project’s scope and your expectations for durability and coverage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Behr or Sherwin-Williams paint better?
Both Sherwin-Williams and Behr are good brands. Sherwin-Williams is best for professional paint jobs that require a better finish and durability. Behr is ideal for small-budget DIY projects.
Why do painters prefer Sherwin-Williams?
Contractors prefer Sherwin-Williams as it’s easier to apply and more durable. It works exceptionally well for exterior walls that are constantly exposed to the elements.
Behr vs Sherwin-Williams: Which is cost-effective?
Sherwin-Williams may be the better option even though it is pricier. It’s more durable, offers better coverage, and in most cases, one coat of paint is enough. You’ll need fewer touch-ups, if any, in the future.
