Paint Quality Comparison
The selection of cabinet paint is a crucial decision, impacting both the aesthetic appeal and longevity of kitchen or bathroom renovations. This comparison analyzes Sherwin-Williams Emerald and Benjamin Moore Advance, two premium cabinet paint lines, focusing on their performance characteristics to aid informed consumer choices. Both are known for their high-quality formulations, but subtle differences exist that significantly influence the final result.
Durability Comparison: Chipping, Scratching, and Staining Resistance
Emerald and Advance both boast exceptional durability, designed to withstand the rigors of daily use in high-traffic areas like kitchens and bathrooms. However, anecdotal evidence and professional reviews suggest slight variations in their resistance to specific types of damage. Emerald, with its alkyd-modified resin base, often exhibits superior resistance to chipping, particularly on edges and corners frequently subjected to impact. Advance, while highly durable, may show minor chipping more readily in such high-stress areas. Both paints generally offer excellent scratch resistance, though deeper gouges may require touch-ups. Stain resistance is comparable in both lines; however, the slightly harder finish of Emerald might provide a marginal advantage in resisting certain stubborn stains like grease or wine. Ultimately, the choice depends on the specific needs and anticipated level of wear and tear.
Self-Leveling Properties and Finish
The self-leveling properties of a paint significantly influence the final finish, impacting smoothness and the ease of application. Both Emerald and Advance exhibit excellent self-leveling capabilities, minimizing brushstrokes and creating a remarkably smooth surface. However, subtle differences exist. Advance, formulated with a slightly higher viscosity, tends to self-level more effectively, resulting in a glass-like finish that requires minimal sanding. Emerald, while also self-leveling, may require slightly more attention to eliminate minor imperfections, especially with less experienced applicators. This difference is largely subjective and depends on application techniques and environmental factors.
VOC Levels, Drying Times, and Clean-Up
The following table summarizes key properties of Sherwin-Williams Emerald and Benjamin Moore Advance cabinet paints:
| Property | Sherwin-Williams Emerald | Benjamin Moore Advance |
|---|---|---|
| VOC Levels (grams/liter) | 50-150 (depending on sheen and color) | 50-150 (depending on sheen and color) |
| Drying Time (to touch) | 1-2 hours | 1-2 hours |
| Drying Time (recoatable) | 4-6 hours | 4-6 hours |
| Clean-Up | Soap and water (while wet); mineral spirits (after drying) | Soap and water (while wet); mineral spirits (after drying) |
Color Selection and Availability: Sherwin Williams Vs Benjamin Moore Cabinet Paint
The chromatic palettes offered by Sherwin-Williams and Benjamin Moore, while both extensive, cater to different aesthetic sensibilities and project needs. Understanding the nuances of their color selections, the breadth of their available shades, and the user-friendliness of their online tools is crucial for successful cabinet refinishing projects. This section will delve into a comparative analysis of these critical aspects.
The selection of the right color is paramount in setting the tone and mood of a kitchen. Both Sherwin-Williams and Benjamin Moore offer a vast array of colors, but their strengths lie in different areas. Benjamin Moore is often praised for its more sophisticated and nuanced color offerings, while Sherwin-Williams provides a broader range, sometimes encompassing bolder and more vibrant options. The undertones of a color, often subtle yet impactful, play a crucial role in the final aesthetic. A careful consideration of these undertones is necessary to ensure harmony with existing elements within the kitchen.
Popular Cabinet Paint Colors and Their Suitability
Sherwin-Williams and Benjamin Moore each boast a selection of popular cabinet paint colors designed to complement a range of kitchen styles. For instance, Sherwin-Williams’ “Pure White” offers a crisp, clean look suitable for modern and minimalist kitchens, while its “Alabaster” provides a warmer, slightly creamier alternative that works well in transitional or traditional settings. Benjamin Moore’s “White Dove,” known for its subtle gray undertones, creates a sophisticated and timeless feel in various kitchen styles. Their “Simply White,” on the other hand, offers a brighter, cleaner white, perfect for contemporary designs. These are just a few examples; both brands offer a multitude of options, each with its own unique undertones and suitability for different kitchen aesthetics. Understanding the subtle differences in undertones—be it a hint of gray, green, or yellow—is key to choosing a color that perfectly complements the overall design scheme.
Color Availability and Finishes
The extent of color availability and the range of finishes significantly influence the project’s final outcome. A comprehensive understanding of what each brand offers is essential for informed decision-making.
- Sherwin-Williams: Offers a vast selection of colors, including many exclusive shades not found in other brands. Their range extends across various finishes, from matte to high-gloss, allowing for customization to suit diverse needs and preferences. The availability of these colors and finishes can vary by location and retailer, so checking local availability is advisable.
- Benjamin Moore: While offering a slightly smaller range of colors than Sherwin-Williams, Benjamin Moore is renowned for its high-quality pigments and nuanced color formulations. They provide a comprehensive selection of finishes, including the popular Aura line known for its exceptional durability and coverage. Similarly, availability might differ depending on the location and retailer.
Online Resources and Color Visualization Tools
Both Sherwin-Williams and Benjamin Moore provide online resources and color visualization tools to aid in the color selection process. However, the user-friendliness and effectiveness of these tools vary.
- Sherwin-Williams: Their website features a color visualizer that allows users to upload images of their kitchen and virtually “paint” their cabinets with different Sherwin-Williams colors. While functional, the tool can sometimes be slow and may not accurately represent the final color due to variations in screen calibration and lighting conditions.
- Benjamin Moore: Benjamin Moore’s online color tool is generally considered more user-friendly and intuitive. It offers a wider array of visualization options and incorporates features like color palettes and coordinating trim colors. However, like Sherwin-Williams’ tool, it is still subject to the limitations of screen calibration and lighting. The accuracy of color representation should always be considered an approximation, and a physical paint sample is always recommended before committing to a large project.
Application and Cost
The choice between Sherwin-Williams and Benjamin Moore cabinet paint often hinges not only on color and quality but also on the practical aspects of application and the overall cost. A careful assessment of both factors is crucial for a successful kitchen cabinet painting project. This section will delve into the intricacies of applying these paints and provide a comparative analysis of their costs.
Sherwin williams vs benjamin moore cabinet paint – Painting kitchen cabinets is a multi-step process requiring meticulous preparation and careful execution. Whether using Sherwin-Williams or Benjamin Moore, the fundamental steps remain consistent, though subtle differences in paint properties might influence technique.
Cabinet Painting: A Step-by-Step Guide
The following steps provide a general framework for painting kitchen cabinets. Specific instructions might vary slightly depending on the chosen paint and the condition of the cabinets. Always refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for the best results.
- Surface Preparation: Thoroughly clean the cabinets to remove grease and grime. Lightly sand to create a smooth surface and ensure proper adhesion. Fill any holes or imperfections with wood filler and sand smooth.
- Priming (if necessary): Depending on the existing finish, a primer might be needed to ensure optimal paint adhesion and color consistency. Choose a primer compatible with your chosen paint.
- Painting: Apply thin, even coats of paint using a high-quality brush, roller, or sprayer. Allow each coat to dry completely before applying the next. Multiple thin coats are generally better than one thick coat.
- Clean-up: Immediately clean brushes and rollers with the appropriate thinner or soap and water.
Price Comparison: Sherwin-Williams vs. Benjamin Moore
The price per gallon of equivalent paints from Sherwin-Williams and Benjamin Moore can vary depending on the specific product line, sheen, and retailer. However, generally, both brands are positioned in a similar price range at the higher end of the market. Benjamin Moore’s Advance paint and Sherwin-Williams’ Emerald paint, for example, often fall within a similar price bracket. Sales and discounts, however, can significantly impact the final cost. Both brands frequently offer promotional periods and discounts through their retailers, especially during off-peak seasons or with larger purchases. Checking for current sales and using retailer coupons can help minimize expenses.
Hypothetical Cost Analysis: Painting a Standard Kitchen, Sherwin williams vs benjamin moore cabinet paint
Let’s consider a hypothetical scenario: painting the cabinets in a standard-sized kitchen (approximately 30 linear feet of cabinets). This calculation includes materials and labor costs, assuming a professional painter is hired. Labor costs vary widely by region and the painter’s experience. These are estimates only and actual costs can vary.
| Item | Sherwin-Williams (Estimate) | Benjamin Moore (Estimate) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Paint (2 gallons) | $200 | $220 | Prices vary by paint line and retailer; this assumes premium lines. |
| Primer (1 gallon) | $50 | $60 | May not be needed depending on existing finish. |
| Sandpaper, brushes, rollers, etc. | $40 | $40 | Consumable supplies. |
| Labor (professional painter, 2 days) | $1000 | $1000 | Labor costs are highly variable and location dependent. |
| Total Estimated Cost | $1300 | $1320 | This is a rough estimate and may vary significantly. |
