What to Look for When Choosing a Paint Brand for Your Home

Choosing the best paint brand for your home can feel overwhelming with so many options available. Whether you’re tackling a DIY project or working with commercial painting contractors in Bellingham, WA, selecting the right paint is crucial for ensuring a long-lasting and beautiful finish. The key is to look beyond just the color—consider the durability, finish, and what works best for the unique weather conditions of Bellingham. Here’s a simple guide to help you pick the perfect paint brand for your home.

1. Consider the Room or Space You’re Painting

The type of room you’re painting has a big impact on which paint brand and finish you should choose. Different rooms experience different levels of traffic and exposure to moisture, which means the paint you select should fit the space.

• Living rooms and bedrooms: These areas don’t experience as much wear and tear, so you can focus on getting a brand with a wide range of color options and smooth finishes. Brands like Sherwin-Williams or Benjamin Moore are known for their excellent color selections and smooth application.
• Bathrooms and kitchens: High-moisture areas need a more durable, mold-resistant paint. Look for brands that offer paints specifically designed for these conditions, such as Behr or Valspar, which offer mildew-resistant formulas that can handle the humidity.
• Exterior surfaces: If you’re painting outside, you need a brand that provides exterior paints built to withstand the elements, especially in a damp, cool climate like Bellingham’s. Exterior paints from brands like PPG or Sherwin-Williams are known for their resilience in various weather conditions.

2. Understand the Different Finishes

Paint finishes affect how your walls look and how well the paint holds up over time. When choosing a paint brand, make sure it offers a range of finishes so you can match the look you want with the functionality you need.

• Flat/matte finish: This has no shine and hides imperfections well, but it’s harder to clean. Ideal for low-traffic areas like bedrooms.
• Eggshell or satin finish: These finishes have a slight sheen and are easier to clean, making them perfect for living rooms, hallways, and dining rooms. Many commercial painting contractors in Bellingham, WA recommend satin for its durability and versatility.
• Semi-gloss and gloss finish: These shiny finishes are highly durable and moisture-resistant, making them ideal for bathrooms, kitchens, and trim. High-quality brands like Behr and Benjamin Moore offer excellent gloss paints that hold up over time.

3. Look for Paint Durability

You don’t want to be repainting your home every few years, so durability is key. A good paint brand should last at least five to ten years before showing signs of wear.

• Washable paints: If you have kids or pets, you’ll want a paint that can withstand scrubbing without losing its color or texture. Brands like Behr and Valspar are known for offering paints that are easy to clean and durable enough to handle daily use.
• Fade resistance: For exterior painting, make sure you choose a paint brand that offers UV-resistant formulas. This will help prevent the color from fading over time, especially in areas with lots of sunlight.

4. Consider Environmental Impact

More people are thinking about the environment when choosing paints. Many paint brands now offer low-VOC (volatile organic compound) or zero-VOC paints, which are healthier for both you and the environment.

• Low-VOC paints: These paints release fewer harmful chemicals into the air, making them a healthier option, especially for indoor spaces. Sherwin-Williams and Benjamin Moore both offer eco-friendly options that don’t sacrifice quality for sustainability.
• Eco-friendly certifications: Look for brands that have certifications from organizations like GreenGuard or LEED, which ensure that the paints meet environmental and health standards.

5. Ask for Expert Recommendations

When you’re unsure which paint brand to choose, consulting with professionals can help. Commercial painting contractors in Bellingham, WA often have hands-on experience with various brands and can guide you to the best options based on your specific needs. They’ve likely used many different paints and can tell you which brands hold up best in Bellingham’s climate, which tends to be cool and rainy for much of the year.

These contractors can also help you decide if a high-end brand is worth the investment or if a more affordable option will give you similar results for your project.

Conclusion

Choosing the best paint brand for your home isn’t just about picking a color; it’s about finding a brand that suits the specific needs of each space. Consider the room’s traffic, the type of finish you want, the durability of the paint, and its environmental impact. If you’re still unsure, consulting commercial painting contractors in Bellingham, WA can be a great way to get professional advice and ensure you’re using the best paint for your project.

By investing in a quality paint brand that meets your home’s needs, you’ll not only improve the appearance of your space but also increase the longevity of your paint job, ensuring it looks great for years to come.