At DeHaan Painting, we pride ourselves on delivering the highest quality results for our clients. One of the most frequent questions we get is whether it’s okay to have a Benjamin Moore color mixed at Sherwin Williams or vice versa. While many paint stores will attempt to match competitors’ colors, we always recommend getting Benjamin Moore colors from Benjamin Moore and Sherwin Williams colors from Sherwin Williams. Here’s why:
The Importance of Gennex Colorants
Benjamin Moore uses a proprietary colorant system called Gennex, which is designed to work exclusively with their paints. Gennex colorants are unique because they are waterborne and don’t contain the ingredients that can weaken a paint’s durability over time. This results in richer, more fade-resistant colors and superior longevity. When a Sherwin Williams store attempts to match a Benjamin Moore color, they are using a completely different colorant system, which can lead to subtle variations in color accuracy and performance.
Specialty Designer Colors and Accuracy
Many designer-favorite colors from both Benjamin Moore and Sherwin Williams rely on highly specific pigments to achieve their distinct look. These colors are formulated to interact precisely with their respective brand’s paint bases, ensuring depth, vibrancy, and consistency. When you try to match these shades at a different store, the base and colorants used are not identical, which can result in a final color that looks slightly off—especially in different lighting conditions.
Brand name paint provides accuracy in color match
Emerald Designer is specialty formulated for the brightest, purest whites; and, the exquisite colors designers have been asking for.
Brand name paint provides accuracy in color match
Emerald Designer is specialty formulated for the brightest, purest whites; and, the exquisite colors designers have been asking for.
Specialty Designer Colors and Accuracy
Many designer-favorite colors from both Benjamin Moore and Sherwin Williams rely on highly specific pigments to achieve their distinct look. These colors are formulated to interact precisely with their respective brand’s paint bases, ensuring depth, vibrancy, and consistency. When you try to match these shades at a different store, the base and colorants used are not identical, which can result in a final color that looks slightly off—especially in different lighting conditions.
Time-Consuming Color Matching Process
Even though many paint stores have sophisticated color-matching technology, it’s still not a perfect science. Getting an exact match can take multiple test batches and adjustments, meaning more time spent tweaking the color instead of painting. This can lead to delays in your project, wasted paint, and potential frustration when the final result isn’t quite what you expected.
Choose Your Paint Store from the Start
If you have a specific paint brand in mind, we strongly recommend going to that store from the beginning. Many homeowners pick a Benjamin Moore color and later realize they want to use their favorite Sherwin Williams paint, only to be disappointed when the color doesn’t match perfectly. Avoid the hassle by selecting both your paint color and brand together at the start of your project.
Cost vs. Value
Some homeowners and contractors may consider getting a color match at a different vendor to save money. However, any short-term savings can quickly be negated by the cost of rework if the color isn’t quite right. Plus, the time spent testing and adjusting colors adds up, making it more efficient to simply buy the right paint from the start.
The Bottom Line
At DeHaan Painting, we are committed to providing the best possible results for our clients. That’s why we always recommend purchasing Benjamin Moore colors at Benjamin Moore and Sherwin Williams colors at Sherwin Williams. Sticking with the original manufacturer ensures the best color accuracy, longevity, and overall quality—giving you the stunning, long-lasting finish you deserve.
Need Something Painted?
If you have any questions about selecting the right paint for your next project, reach out to DeHaan Painting today. We’re happy to help guide you to the best products for your needs!
Helping Thousands of Families in Plaza Midwood, Noda, Chantilly, Dilworth, Elizabeth, Myers Park, South Park, Barclay Downs and Surrounding Areas.
DeHaan Painting
“Charlotte’s Premier Painter”
Dock, Deck, Fence Staining – Interior House Painting – Exterior House Painting – Kitchen Cabinet Painting – Limewash Applications – Commercial Painting – Christmas Light Installer
Phone: (980) 224-3191
Email: info@dehaanpaints.com
