![]() Earlier low-VOC paints lacked the durability of higher-VOC finishes, but now all the paints in our tests are claimed to have low or no VOCs, and many perform very well. In response to stricter federal and regional standards, manufacturers have reduced the levels of volatile organic compounds-some of the noxious chemicals that can make paint smell like paint-in their products. But there are still real differences among the tested paints in our ratings, and many manufacturers claim that you won’t have to apply a primer first. ![]() As a group, they’re more durable and less prone to cracking and fading. ![]() ![]() The vast majority of the tested paints claim to eliminate priming.Įxterior paints have improved dramatically in recent years. Paints earning a Very Good or Excellent rating in our hiding test cover most colors in one coat. Our tests find that economy grades of interior paint don’t perform well overall, and you may need to apply three or four coats to cover dark colors. You can choose the most beautiful shade, but if the paint is mediocre, the end result is likely to disappoint. Look at the color at different times of the day. Once you’ve narrowed your choices, paint a swatch on the front of your house where it’s in full sun-not on the porch or under an overhang, where there are shadows. Again, observe the color at different times of day as the natural light changes. Paint sample boards with each color you’re considering, and place them on different corners of your home. And it’s smart to take a cue from other homes in the neighborhood, although you don’t want a color that’s too close to the homes next door. That said, as blues and grays became popular colors for a home’s interior, they’re popping up on exteriors, too. Throughout the day, observe the effects of changing light on the color, both natural light and light provided by bulbs.įor exteriors, warm, neutral palettes continue to be widely used because the brick, stone, and other fixed elements are warm materials. Paint sample colors on large sheets of heavy paper so that you can move them from place to place without having to paint the walls. Once you’ve narrowed your choices, buy small containers for testing. Do this over the course of several days, removing colors that aren’t working. Keep in mind that indoors, color tends to intensify over large areas, so it’s generally better to go too light than too dark in a given shade. Once home, place the chips on the wall, next to the trim, and look at them at different times throughout the day as the natural light changes. A store’s lighting affects your take, so step outside to get another look in natural light. Look at the biggest paint chips the store offers. With dozens to choose from, zeroing in on just the right white can be tricky. Fun fact: Despite all the colors available, whites and off-whites remain the top-selling interior colors. So decide which sheen is needed for the job (pros and cons are spelled out below), find a color you love, and then choose the best paint for your budget. The sheen can vary, however, and that can affect your perception of color. While you’re painting, it’s also best to make sure there’s little to no wind so that you don’t mess up your paint job.Ĭhoosing a color is where some folks start. Color-matching systems have improved to the point where you can get close to the exact color you crave in just about any brand. That could make the paint susceptible to cracking and affect how long the paint lasts. When the temperature dips, it can cause dew to form on the paint, making it harder for the paint to dry the way it should. If an exterior paint project is on your to-do list this spring, take heed to this important pro tip: Make sure that outdoor temperatures are at least 50° F when applying the paint and that they don’t drop below 32° F at night. We test dozens of interior and exterior paints in a variety of finishes to help you find the best one for the job and your budget. The good news is that the perfect paint for your needs is out there, and CR can help lead you to it. Brand lines keep expanding, which is great, but when prices jump by $5 to $20 per gallon, it can leave you wondering: Which paints deliver? And are the more affordable options just as efficient? But walk into any home center or paint store and you can easily get confused and overwhelmed by the number of choices on the shelves. Buying a can of paint should be an easy task.
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