new-logo-sherwood
Get Your Quote
Get A Quote

Sherwin Williams vs Behr: Choosing the Right Paint Brand for Your Home

When it comes to painting your home, two big names often come up: Sherwin Williams vs Behr. Both are well-known paint brands offering a wide variety of options for your next paint job. But how do they compare? Let’s break it down to help you decide which one is the best fit for your needs.
IMG 20241215 WA0039 sherwin williams vs behr

Overview of Sherwin Williams and Behr Paint

Sherwin Williams has been a trusted name in the industry for decades. They’re known for high-quality paint lines that cater to both professional painters and DIY homeowners. From interior paints to exterior paints, Sherwin Williams paint delivers consistent results and long-lasting finishes.

On the other hand, Behr paint is a favorite among homeowners looking for great value. Sold primarily at Home Depot, Behr paint is easy to access, affordable, and available in a wide range of paint colors. While some might say it’s not as premium as Sherwin Williams, it still holds its own in quality and durability.

Comparing Paint Quality: Sherwin Williams vs Behr

When choosing a paint brand, quality is one of the biggest considerations. Let’s look at how both Behr and Sherwin Williams paint compare.

  • Durability: Sherwin Williams tends to be more durable, especially for high-traffic areas. Their thicker paint covers well in fewer coats, saving time and effort.
  • Ease of Application: Behr paint is also easy to work with, but some users find it thinner, requiring more coats for full coverage.
  • Finish: Both brands offer a variety of finishes, but Sherwin Williams often wins when it comes to a smoother, more professional look.

Paint Colors and Options

Whether you’re painting your living room or the exterior of your home, having a variety of paint colors to choose from is essential. Sherwin Williams has a broader range of paint lines and custom color matching options, making it a favorite for those seeking specific shades.

Behr paint offers plenty of paint colors as well, and their online tools make it easy to visualize how a shade will look in your space. However, if you’re working with a paint contractor or professional painters, they may recommend Sherwin Williams for its richer color payoff.

Interior Paints: Which is Better?

For interior paints, Sherwin Williams often comes out on top. Their paints provide excellent coverage and are less likely to show streaks or brush marks. If you’re looking for zero VOC paints to minimize indoor fumes, Sherwin Williams has more options in this category.

That said, Behr paint still performs well for indoor use. Their Premium Plus line is low in VOC paints and provides a solid, budget-friendly option for most paint jobs.

Exterior Paints: Durability Matters

When it comes to exterior paints, durability is key. Sherwin Williams paint is designed to withstand harsh weather conditions, making it a top choice for outdoor projects. Their Emerald line, for example, offers excellent fade resistance and protection against cracking or peeling.

Behr paint also has strong options for outdoor use, but it may require more maintenance over time compared to Sherwin Williams.

Price Comparison: Sherwin Williams vs Behr

Cost is another factor to consider when comparing different paint brands. Behr paint is generally more affordable, making it a great choice for homeowners on a budget. You can often find a gallon of Behr paint for less than half the price of some Sherwin Williams paint lines.

However, the higher cost of Sherwin Williams often translates to better quality and longevity. For those hiring professional painters, they may prefer SW paint due to its superior performance, even if it comes at a higher price.

What Do Professional Painters Say?

Many professional painters lean toward Sherwin Williams because of its reputation for quality and ease of application. The thicker paint requires fewer coats, saving time and ensuring a more polished finish. However, some professionals still use Behr paint, especially for smaller projects or when budget constraints are a concern.
IMG 20241215 WA0038 sherwin williams vs behr

Pros and Cons of Sherwin Williams vs Behr

Let’s break down the pros and cons of underfloor heating to help you decide which brand might work best for you.

Pros of Sherwin Williams:

  • High-quality paint lines for both interior and exterior use.
  • Superior coverage and durability.
  • Excellent range of paint colors.

Cons of Sherwin Williams:

  • Higher price point.
  • Not as accessible for DIYers compared to Behr paint.

Pros of Behr Paint:

  • Affordable and widely available at Home Depot.
  • Good range of finishes and paint colors.

Cons of Behr Paint:

  • May require more coats for full coverage.
  • Not as durable as Sherwin Williams for high-traffic or exterior use.

Choosing the Right Paint Brand for Your Project

The choice between Sherwin Williams vs Behr ultimately depends on your needs and budget. For larger or more intricate paint jobs, Sherwin Williams paint may be worth the investment for its durability and professional finish. On the other hand, Behr paint offers great value and versatility for DIY projects and smaller-scale jobs.

Tips for a Successful Paint Job

No matter which paint brand you choose, here are a few tips to ensure your paint job looks amazing:

  1. Prep Your Space: Clean surfaces and repair any imperfections before painting.
  2. Choose the Right Finish: Consider factors like lighting and room use when selecting a finish.
  3. Invest in Quality Tools: High-quality brushes and rollers make a big difference.
  4. Test Paint Colors: Try sample sizes of your chosen shades to see how they look in your space.
IMG 20241215 WA0036 sherwin williams vs behr

FAQs: Sherwin Williams vs Behr Paint

It depends on your needs. Sherwin Williams offers premium quality, better durability, and smoother finishes, making it ideal for professional-grade results. Behr paint is more affordable and great for DIY projects, offering good performance at a budget-friendly price.
While Behr paint performs well, especially indoors, Sherwin Williams tends to last longer due to its superior durability, particularly for high-traffic areas and exterior projects.
Yes, for many homeowners and professional painters, Sherwin Williams paint is worth the higher cost because of its quality, coverage, and longevity. It often requires fewer coats, saving time and effort.
Yes, Behr paint can deliver great results, especially with proper preparation and application. However, Sherwin Williams is often preferred by paint contractors for a more polished and durable finish.
Both brands offer zero VOC paints and low VOC paints. Sherwin Williams has a broader range of eco-friendly options, while Behr paint also offers low-VOC solutions in its Premium Plus line.

Find the Perfect Paint with Sherwood Painting’s Expertise

When comparing Sherwin Williams vs Behr, both brands shine in different areas. For premium quality, durability, and smooth finishes, Sherwin Williams paint stands out as the top choice. If you’re on a budget or tackling smaller projects, Behr paint offers excellent value and a wide range of options to suit your needs.

Ready to transform your home? At Sherwood Painting, we bring years of expertise to ensure your next paint job is flawless, whether you choose Sherwin Williams or Behr paint.

Let us guide you through the process and deliver stunning results that exceed your expectations. Contact us at (704) 924-1800 to start your interior painting project with the pros!