Benjamin Moore vs Sherwin-Williams: Which Paint Lasts Longer?

Benjamin Moore vs. Sherwin-Williams: Which Paint Truly Stands the Test of Time?

If you’ve ever wandered down the paint aisle at your local hardware store or spent way too much time scrolling through color swatches online, you’ve probably noticed two major players dominating the conversation: Benjamin Moore and Sherwin-Williams.

These brands have earned loyal followings among homeowners, painters, and professionals alike, thanks to their reputation for quality and wide range of color options. But when it comes time to choose, many find themselves caught in the classic Benjamin Moore vs Sherwin-Williams debate, trying to decide which one will give their walls that perfect finish, and more importantly, which one will stand the test of time.

After all, paint isn’t just about looking good the day it’s applied; it needs to hold up against everyday wear and tear, weather, fading, and all the challenges life throws at your home. So if you’re wondering which brand really lasts longer and delivers the best durability, you’re in the right place. This guide breaks down everything you need to know to make an informed choice that keeps your home looking fresh for years to come.

Why durability matters in interior and exterior paints

Durability in paint isn’t just about how long it holds its color. It’s about how well it stands up to everyday life. Think about it, paint is the barrier between your surfaces and everything that comes at them, whether that’s dirty fingerprints, cooking grease, pet claws, or blazing summer sun. When paint is durable, it can resist scuffs, fading, peeling, and even mildew, all while still looking fresh and clean.

Inside the house, high-traffic areas like hallways, kitchens, and kids’ bedrooms need paint that can handle constant contact. If it can’t, you’ll find yourself constantly scrubbing, touching up, or repainting entirely. That gets expensive and exhausting fast. So, when comparing Benjamin Moore vs Sherwin-Williams, it’s not just about color selection or how smooth the paint goes on, it’s about how long it stays looking good without you having to fix it.

Now take that idea outside. Exterior paint has an even tougher job. It’s exposed to rain, heat, freezing temperatures, wind, and the full blast of UV rays every single day. A low-durability exterior paint might look great for a year or two, but then it starts fading, chalking, cracking, or blistering, and that’s when you’re back on the ladder doing it all over again. The more durable the paint, the longer it protects your siding, trim, deck, or fence, and the less often you have to spend time and money on repainting.

So, when choosing between Benjamin Moore vs Sherwin-Williams, you’re really deciding how much long-term protection you want, and how much maintenance you want to avoid. Because at the end of the day, a truly durable paint helps your home look its best for longer and gives you peace of mind knowing you won’t be dealing with constant upkeep.

What makes paint last longer in the first place?

Paint longevity comes down to a mix of formulation and external conditions. Both Benjamin Moore and Sherwin-Williams use advanced resins and pigments in their premium paints, but longevity is influenced by factors like UV resistance, adhesion to the surface, and fade resistance. High-quality paints resist cracking, peeling, and blistering better over time.

It’s also worth noting the difference between durability and washability. Durability refers to how well the paint holds up physically, while washability is about how easily you can clean it without affecting the finish. Both matter, especially in busy households.

Environmental factors also play a role. Sunlight exposure, moisture levels, and even air pollution can affect how long your paint lasts. That’s why comparing Benjamin Moore vs Sherwin-Williams isn’t just about the label, it’s about how they stand up to real-world conditions.

Benjamin Moore vs Sherwin-Williams, how long does each paint last?

Benjamin Moore offers several paint lines with excellent reputations. Aura, the brand’s high-end offering, is known for its color retention and coverage, often lasting 10 to 12 years with minimal maintenance. Regal Select is another long-lasting option, ideal for interiors and capable of lasting 8 to 10 years. The more budget-friendly Ben line typically holds up for 5 to 7 years, depending on usage and conditions.

Interior paints like Aura and Regal Select are particularly resistant to scuffs and moisture, making them ideal for kitchens and bathrooms. For exterior applications, Benjamin Moore’s Aura Exterior and Regal Select Exterior lines are praised for withstanding UV damage and resisting peeling.

In real-world conditions, Benjamin Moore paints often meet or exceed manufacturer claims, especially when surfaces are properly prepped. However, homeowners in harsh climates may see slightly reduced performance if cheaper lines are used.

Sherwin-Williams has its own set of heavy-hitters. Duration is designed for longevity and can last up to 10 years indoors and 8 to 10 years outdoors. Emerald, their ultra-premium line, can hold up even longer, with some homeowners reporting great performance after 12 years. SuperPaint falls somewhere in the middle, offering solid durability at a lower price point.

Sherwin-Williams interior paints perform particularly well in busy households. Emerald has great stain-blocking technology, and Duration offers excellent washability without sacrificing appearance. For exteriors, Sherwin-Williams paints are often chosen in regions with extreme weather thanks to their resistance to cracking and fading.

Warranties back up their performance. Many Sherwin-Williams lines come with limited lifetime warranties, reflecting their confidence in longevity.

Which paint holds up better over time in high-traffic areas?

If you’ve got kids, pets, or just a lot of foot traffic, you know how quickly walls can take a beating. In these conditions, both Benjamin Moore vs Sherwin-Williams have strong offerings. Benjamin Moore’s Aura and Regal Select excel in scrub resistance and stain repellency. Sherwin-Williams Emerald and Duration are also made to withstand frequent cleaning.

Tests conducted by third-party labs often place both brands neck and neck in durability, though some professionals note that Benjamin Moore’s Regal Select handles touch-ups better over time.

Which exterior paint withstands weather and UV damage better?

Exterior durability is where many homeowners draw the line in the Benjamin Moore vs Sherwin-Williams showdown. Benjamin Moore Aura Exterior is engineered with Color Lock technology, which helps resist UV fading and cracking. It performs well in both dry heat and wet climates.

Sherwin-Williams Duration and Emerald Exterior also shine in UV resistance and perform exceptionally well in cold, wet, and humid environments. Emerald in particular uses advanced acrylic technology that resists blistering, mildew, and fading.

In most side-by-side tests, both brands are extremely competitive. However, Sherwin-Williams tends to edge ahead in regions with extreme freeze-thaw cycles, thanks to its flexible film properties.

Benjamin Moore vs Sherwin-Williams, which is better for moisture-prone areas?

For bathrooms, basements, and exterior siding, mold and mildew resistance is key. Benjamin Moore’s Aura Bath & Spa is specifically formulated for high-humidity environments and has received excellent reviews for holding up in steamy conditions.

Sherwin-Williams also has moisture-fighting options like Duration Home and Emerald Interior with anti-microbial properties. Both brands have earned strong mold and mildew resistance ratings in lab tests.

In anecdotal homeowner reviews, both brands perform well, though Benjamin Moore’s dedicated bath line often gets high marks for not needing primer in steamy areas.

What do painters and contractors say about durability?

Professional painters often have clear preferences in the Benjamin Moore vs Sherwin-Williams debate. Many prefer Benjamin Moore for its smoother application and rich finish, especially in residential settings. Others lean toward Sherwin-Williams for commercial jobs, citing its faster dry times and large-scale availability.

In a survey by Professional Painters Magazine, 55% of pros preferred Sherwin-Williams for exteriors while 52% favored Benjamin Moore for interiors. Application ease and cleanup often influence these choices as much as durability.

Benjamin Moore vs Sherwin-Williams, which paint resists fading longer?

Fade resistance is crucial, especially for sunlit areas. Benjamin Moore’s Aura line is known for retaining its color longer than average due to its proprietary pigments and Color Lock technology.

Sherwin-Williams Emerald also uses top-tier pigments to maintain vibrancy. Both brands performed well in lab fade tests, though Benjamin Moore showed slightly better color retention in simulated UV exposure tests on red and yellow tones.

How do the warranties compare between the two brands?

Benjamin Moore offers a limited lifetime warranty on most premium lines, as does Sherwin-Williams. The key difference lies in the fine print. Sherwin-Williams often includes mildew resistance and fade guarantees in their higher-end warranties. Both companies have strong reputations for honoring claims, but experiences can vary based on location and dealer.

Warranties reflect the confidence each brand has in its products, but they also hint at how long the paint is truly expected to last.

What are the long-term maintenance requirements for each brand?

If your goal is to avoid repainting for as long as possible, go with premium lines. Benjamin Moore Aura and Sherwin-Williams Emerald require little maintenance beyond occasional cleaning. Lower-tier options may need touch-ups or full recoats sooner.

On average, premium paint from either brand can last 8 to 12 years indoors and 7 to 10 years outdoors. With proper prep and surface care, homeowners can often stretch this further.

How do price and longevity correlate between brands?

When it comes to paint, the old saying “you get what you pay for” often rings true. Premium lines like Benjamin Moore’s Aura and Sherwin-Williams’ Emerald come with a higher price tag, but they also offer noticeably longer lifespans and better overall durability. These top-tier paints are engineered to resist fading, peeling, and wear, meaning fewer touch-ups and repaints down the road. On the other hand, mid-range options such as Benjamin Moore’s Regal Select and Sherwin-Williams’ Duration provide a more budget-friendly choice without sacrificing too much durability. When you look at it from a value-over-time perspective, investing more upfront usually pays off by reducing maintenance costs and repainting frequency over 10 years.

Are there any independent tests comparing the longevity of the two brands?

Yes, both Benjamin Moore and Sherwin-Williams have been put through their paces by independent reviewers like Consumer Reports. These tests typically evaluate key factors such as simulated weather exposure, washability, and resistance to color fading. In most comparisons, the two brands perform very closely, often within just a few points of each other. Benjamin Moore’s Aura line tends to edge out competitors slightly when used indoors, thanks to its exceptional color retention and smooth finish. Sherwin-Williams, meanwhile, often earns higher marks for exterior paints, especially in harsh weather conditions where resistance to cracking and peeling matters most. Overall, these tests confirm that both brands offer top-quality paints that stand up well over time.

What do homeowners say about paint durability over time?

Homeowner feedback often lines up closely with what testing and expert reviews reveal. Many users rave about Benjamin Moore’s rich, vibrant colors that resist fading well inside the home, keeping rooms looking fresh for years. On the other hand, Sherwin-Williams consistently receives praise for its durability outdoors, especially on siding, trim, and other exterior surfaces exposed to harsh weather. Across DIY forums and blogs, it’s common to hear that Benjamin Moore paints tend to blend better when doing touch-ups, making small repairs less noticeable. Meanwhile, Sherwin-Williams often gets credit for providing excellent coverage that usually requires fewer coats, saving time and effort during the initial painting process.

Benjamin Moore vs Sherwin-Williams, does the type of paint finish affect durability?

The finish you choose can have a big impact on how durable your paint job is. Flat finishes, while great at hiding surface imperfections, are generally less durable and show scuffs and marks more easily. Satin and semi-gloss finishes strike a nice balance by offering an attractive sheen that’s easier to clean, making them popular choices for busy areas like kitchens, hallways, and bathrooms. High-gloss finishes are the toughest and most durable, resisting wear and tear very well, but they tend to highlight any surface flaws, so prep work needs to be spot-on. Both Benjamin Moore and Sherwin-Williams offer all these finishes across their product lines, with satin and semi-gloss typically standing out as the best options for longevity in high-traffic or moisture-prone spaces.

Benjamin Moore vs Sherwin-Williams, how does paint longevity differ based on surface type?

Paint reacts differently depending on the surface it’s applied to. When it comes to wood and drywall, both Benjamin Moore and Sherwin-Williams deliver excellent adhesion and flexibility, which helps prevent cracking and peeling as surfaces expand and contract. For masonry surfaces like brick or stucco, breathable exterior formulas are essential to allow moisture to escape, and both brands have strong options designed specifically for these needs. Metal surfaces require a bit more care, primers are especially important here to prevent rust and ensure good adhesion. Once primed properly, topcoats from either brand hold up well and provide solid protection. One thing that remains true across all surfaces is that good preparation is key; no matter how high-quality the paint, skipping proper cleaning, sanding, or priming can dramatically reduce how long the finish lasts.

Which brand offers better touch-up and repaint compatibility?

Touching up paint years after the original application can be a challenge, mainly because colors may fade or change over time. Benjamin Moore often earns praise for superior color matching, thanks to their advanced computer matching technology, which helps new paint blend seamlessly with the old, even after several years. This can make touch-ups less noticeable and repainting simpler. Sherwin-Williams also provides excellent color matching services, but some users report that touch-ups may be slightly less consistent, especially with matte or flat finishes, where subtle differences in sheen or texture stand out more. Overall, both brands can manage repainting well, but Benjamin Moore tends to have a slight edge when it comes to maintaining color harmony during touch-ups.

Frequently Asked Questions

Below are some commonly asked questions to consider:

Can I use Benjamin Moore paint over Sherwin-Williams?

Yes, you absolutely can use Benjamin Moore paint over Sherwin-Williams products. The key is to make sure the surface you’re painting on is clean, dry, and properly prepped. That usually means washing away any dirt or grease, sanding if the old paint is peeling or glossy, and applying a primer if necessary. Once that’s done, switching between these two brands won’t cause any problems. Both companies use high-quality paint formulations that work well together when applied over a properly prepared surface.

Is one brand better for DIY projects?

When it comes to DIY painting, many people lean toward Benjamin Moore because of its smooth application and easy-to-use self-priming formulas. Their paints often have great coverage and flow nicely, which can make the painting process less stressful if you’re not a pro. That said, Sherwin-Williams is no slouch either. Their paints are designed with both professionals and DIYers in mind, offering user-friendly options with good coverage and durability. Ultimately, the best choice might come down to personal preference and the specific product you’re using.

Benjamin Moore vs Sherwin-Williams, which brand is more eco-friendly?

Both Benjamin Moore and Sherwin-Williams have made strides toward more environmentally friendly paints. They each offer low-VOC (volatile organic compounds) and zero-VOC lines that reduce harmful emissions during and after application. For a greener paint choice, Benjamin Moore’s Eco Spec® line stands out. It’s a zero-VOC, waterborne interior latex paint that’s designed specifically for commercial and residential settings looking for environmentally responsible solutions. Sherwin-Williams counters with their Harmony line, which also features zero VOCs and is designed to improve indoor air quality. So, whichever brand you pick, you can find eco-conscious paints that are safer for your home and the environment.

How long should I wait before applying a second coat?

For both Benjamin Moore and Sherwin-Williams interior paints, the general recommendation is to wait between 2 to 4 hours before applying a second coat. This allows the first coat to dry properly so the second one adheres well and provides a smooth, even finish. However, drying times can vary depending on the specific product, room temperature, humidity, and ventilation. So, it’s always a good idea to check the label or product datasheet for exact drying and recoating instructions.

Can either brand be sprayed instead of rolled or brushed?

Yes! Both Benjamin Moore and Sherwin-Williams produce premium paints that work great with airless sprayers. Spraying can be a faster way to cover large areas and often results in a smooth, professional-looking finish. That said, proper technique is important to avoid runs or uneven coverage. Make sure to thin the paint if the manufacturer recommends it and practice spraying on a test surface if you’re new to this method. Whether you’re rolling, brushing, or spraying, both brands offer products that adapt well to your preferred application style.

Benjamin Moore vs Sherwin-Williams: Which brand is right for you?

Choosing between Benjamin Moore and Sherwin-Williams comes down to your specific needs, preferences, and the environment where you’ll be painting. Both brands offer durable, high-quality paints designed to stand the test of time, whether indoors or outdoors. Benjamin Moore often shines with its smooth application and strong performance in high-traffic areas, while Sherwin-Williams impresses with its weather-resistant exterior options and excellent warranties.

Ultimately, durability isn’t just about how long the paint lasts but how well it protects your surfaces and reduces maintenance over time. By understanding the strengths of each brand’s product lines and considering factors like your climate, surface type, and project scope, you can pick the paint that delivers the best long-term value for your home.

Whichever you choose, investing in proper surface prep, following application guidelines, and maintaining your painted surfaces will help you enjoy vibrant, lasting color for years to come. With Benjamin Moore or Sherwin-Williams, you’re getting premium paints that make your home look great and hold up under everyday wear and tear.

Benjamin Moore vs Sherwin-Williams, which paint works best for you? Speak to professional interior and exterior painters in San Diego to help with your choice.