Sherwin Williams Paint Reviews

Author:
Matt G.
Updated:
Jul 2, 2023 5:24 PM EDT

Which Sherwin Williams Paint Is Best?
Photo by JOSHUA COLEMAN on Unsplash

Sherwin Williams Paints and Prices

Some painters are convinced Benjamin Moore paints are the best, and they do have excellent products I use on occasion, but they're also a little expensive. Sherwin Williams sells high quality paints and stains that aren't cheap, but their pricing on comparable products is usually more affordable.

I have used almost all of the Sherwin Williams paints at one time or another. This article provides a few Sherwin Williams paint reviews. The reviews are based on a few of the different paints that I use the most.

ProMar 200

ProMar 200 was my go-to paint for walls for many years until I started using other paints I like more. Simply put, the paint provides a quality finish at a reasonable price. The eggshell finish, when rolled on walls properly, does not leave roller marks. The cost is between $24 to $30 per gallon, depending on the finish selected. A flat finish is the cheapest and gloss is the most expensive.

ProMar 200 and is the only wall paint I recommend from the ProMar product line at Sherwin Williams. Stay away from ProMar 400 and ProMar 700 because the coverage is terrible as well as the quality of the paint. For ceilings, though, ProMar ceiling paint is awesome and covers great.

There is also a newer zero VOC ProMar 200 paint that I highly recommend over the original. The paint was released in 2015 and costs $72 per gallon, as of this review update. The obvious advantage is the reduction in hazardous fumes compared to the original version. The paint also dries a lot faster than regular house paint, so you can begin applying the second coat shortly after painting the first coat. This is a good zero VOC paint that covers well in fewer coats, but based on my experience, the paint isn't very washable.

SuperPaint

I've used interior SuperPaint for walls and ceilings in rental properties and even in high-end homes. I have also used exterior SuperPaint for house trim many times too. The cost starts at $66 per gallon for the interior flat finish. SuperPaint is an excellent exterior paint, but if you're repainting the inside of your home and want paint with less odor, I would go with the zero VOC ProMar 200 because this paint does have a strong odor.

When it comes to coverage, SuperPaint performs better than ProMar 200. Both the interior and exterior versions of SuperPaint cover exceptionally well in only one or two coats. The interior flat finish covers the best and looks great on ceilings too because it's a true flat finish.

The durability and coverage of SuperPaint are both very good, especially for exterior painting. I highly recommend it for aluminum siding and it's great for painting over previously painted wood. It is backed by a 25-year warranty. Note: The paint is a bad choice for bathrooms because it reacts poorly to humidity, and I had a bad experience with surfactant leaching. For bathrooms, Benjamin Moore Aura Bath and Spa paint is the best option.

CHB

CHB is a cheap flat paint a lot of painters, including myself, use for ceilings. Even though the label on the can says 'wall paint', you can paint it on ceilings too and it looks excellent. I have painted hundreds of ceilings with CHB over the years and it's by far one of the best paints I have ever used for that purpose, with ProMar ceiling paint and Eminence right behind it. The paint doesn't dry in a shiny finish or leave roller marks like Behr ceiling paint does.

In newly constructed homes, paint contractors and builders often use CHB to paint the first coat on bare drywall. CHB is cheap and works great for hiding imperfections on drywall due to the high build and dead flat finish. If you like ceiling paint to dry in a completely flat finish, without the shiny look, there is absolutely no sheen in the CHB paint finish.

You don't have to spend a lot of money on ceiling paint, especially when some of the pricier ceiling paints leave hideous roller marks (Behr paint). However, if you think you'll need to clean your ceilings, don't buy CHB because it doesn't clean easily without leaving marks. DO NOT paint CHB on walls. The paint is incredibly chalky and hard to maintain on walls. I would also avoid using it on bathroom ceilings.

Finding CHB on the shelf at a Sherwin Williams store is a little difficult at times. Sometimes the paint is only available in gallon containers or not available at all.

Duration

If you want your exterior paint finish to last for years, Duration paint is definitely one of the best options. The problem is that it costs $89 per gallon! However, I can attest to the durability. I've used this product on everything from wood trim to aluminum siding without ever having any callbacks.

The coverage is great, and Duration self-primes over previously painted surfaces. It is important to know though that Duration cannot be used as a primer over bare wood outside. It is only self-priming over a previously painted surface. For bare wood, you will have to apply an oil-based primer before applying Duration.

Duration is extremely durable and backed by a lifetime warranty. If you plan to live in your home for a long time and you need to repaint the outside, it makes sense to spend more money on this paint if you can afford it, but if you want to save money choose SuperPaint exterior instead because the paint is also very durable.

Questions & Answers

Question: My painter used ProMar 200 on my walls. It covered my family room wall well, but there are roller marks on my hallway walls. They were repainted, but there are still roller marks. What's the problem? We used the same color but a different can of paint.

Answer: ProMar 200 isn't the greatest paint to begin with. I don't use this paint anymore. My article is quite old and outdated. Different factors could have caused the roller marks, but it's possible the paint hadn't fully cured yet in between coats, or a low-quality paint roller was used. Rolling technique also plays a role. If the painter didn't roll correctly or rolled back into drying paint, this will definitely leave noticeable roller marks on doors and walls.

Question: If you no longer use ProMar 200 interior paint, then what do you now use?

Answer: I use Duration a lot. Cashmere is good too. For cabinets and trim, I've been very pleased with Emerald Urethane. All from Sherwin Williams.

Question: What do you think, Promar 200 or Emerald for interior walls?

Answer: Definitely Emerald, or Duration.

Question: Is the ProMar 200 paint good for kitchen cabinets?

Answer: No, I wouldn't use ProMar paint on cabinets, or anything else. Emerald urethane enamel is a good option. I used Pro Classic for many years, but switched to Emerald urethane because it dries harder and it's more durable for use on kitchen cabinets.

Question: Our builder used Sherwin Williams ProMar 200 flat on the walls of our townhouse, Just brushing up against the walls leave marks. We just moved in and need to touch up a few areas. Would it be possible to use a better quality paint to touch up these areas?

Answer: Yes, but the touch ups won't totally blend in using a different product, even if the color is the same. You'd have to use another flat paint that looks the same as ProMar 200 flat when dry, but even then, it's not going to look right. And if you use a glossy paint it will look worse. It's unfortunate the walls were painted with ProMar 200 flat. That's a horrible choice for walls. I would just repaint the entire walls that get touched the most with a washable paint like Duration, using the satin, or matte finish.

Question: We are trying to decide between ProMar 200 and their pre-catalyzed epoxy for walls in a dance studio and lobby. Price is an issue with the epoxy - thoughts on whether going with the ProMar will be ok? Will eggshell fine for either?

Answer: I wouldn't use ProMar 200 for the walls in your studio. My article is a little outdated. Although I've never used the epoxy you referenced, it will be far more durable than ProMar 200.

Question: We are having the entire exterior of our house painted. What type of paint would you recommend for me?

Answer: For exterior paint, the two products I've had the most success with and continue to use are Duration and Super Paint, both from Sherwin Williams. I've never had a call back using either of those products. Both can be used on vinyl and aluminum siding as well. Duration is more expensive but covers really well. The paint is thicker.

Question: I am trying to decide between Resilience and Super Paint for the exterior of the Northwest? Have you used either or both outdoor paints?

Answer: I used Super Paint for my exterior painting for many years without any issues. It's a good paint, but upgrading to Duration will give you added durability. The paint is thicker and resists peeling better. I haven't used Resilience, but I've been told it's a good product for painting in moist conditions. If it's rainy a lot where you live, Resilience might be the better choice. Supposedly, rain the same day of application won't harm the paint.

Question: Should Duration Exterior Satin paint be applied in one or two coats?

Answer: Two coats. The problem with doing only one coat is the satin finish won't be as shiny and smooth for maintenance and durability.

Question: I do not want to remove shutters. Can they be painted in place? They are vinyl or plastic.

Answer: Yes, of course, but if you can safely access the shutters to take them down, this will make painting them a lot easier. But if you don't take them down, you can paint them from a ladder with a brush and roller, or cover the windows and siding with plastic and spray them.

Question: Will a previously painted stucco exterior need two coats?

Answer: I always apply two coats. It depends on the color. If the color is the same, and the surface is in good condition, one coat is fine. If you're changing colors, two might be needed to get solid coverage. Two coats are more durable.

Question: Price check from state to state, mine being Illinois Let's say super paint interior flat price being $26 a gallon as a contractor. What is the price in your state?

Answer: I'm not sure of the current price on Super Paint interior because I haven't used this product for a long time, but you can call a Sherwin Williams store and ask.

Question: Should all exterior paints be applied in two coats? Duration and SuperPaint? What works best as a single coat?

Answer: You don't have to apply two coats, but it increases durability. I always apply two coats of paint.

Question: My bathroom ceiling paint is cracking near the shower area. What Sherwin Williams paint brand and finish do you recommend? Does a primer need to be used before applying?

Answer: Sherwin Williams Duration, in the satin finish, is good for bathroom walls and ceilings. The ceiling cracks should be primed after patching them, but the rest of the bathroom doesn't have to be primed, unless there are stains on the wall, or other drywall repair patches.

Question: What about using SuperPaint Semi gloss on trim?

Answer: It would be better to use enamel instead of SuperPaint semi-gloss. I would rather use Pro Classic semi-gloss acrylic enanel, or Emerald urethane enamel.

Question: Do you have experience with SW cashmere?

Answer: Yes, but I've only used it a couple times. The coverage was pretty good when I used it.

Question: Is Sherwin Williams' ProMar 400 a better or lesser grade paint than 200?

Answer: It's worse.

Question: What is Sherwin Williams' CHB paint recoating time?

Answer: The paint dries fast. You can apply a second coat within a couple hours.

Question: The kitchen is in flat paint and shows scuff marks. I want a paint with a little more life to it. What do you suggest?

Answer: Duration satin from Sherwin Williams. It's more washable.

Question: What are the most durable paint colors to use when painting exterior shutters?

Answer: Lighter colors absorb less heat from the sun. Most paint manufacturers have vinyl safe paint and specific vinyl safe colors. It's important to use a paint that's safe for use on vinyl and ask them for their colors that are best for that application. Certain colors, typically darker colors, may absorb too much heat from the sun, causing paint failure, or warping. But by using a high quality, vinyl safe paint, you can still use darker colors without having to worry about paint failure. Ask the store if the color you want to use is okay for vinyl.

Question: Is Sherwin Williams DuraCraft good on wood?

Answer: I haven't used DuraCraft paint so I can't comment on its performance. I've had very positive experiences using exterior Duration and Super Paint on wood.

Question: How do I solve the problem of roller marks left on the ceiling after two coats of Sherwin Williams Eminence ceiling paint?

Answer: I've never had that problem with Eminence. The way you roll a ceiling can lead to roller marks if done wrong, or if the ceiling was very glossy and the primer wasn't used first before Eminence. There are a number of factors that can cause this problem. You can try a third coat, or try one coat of the Sherwin Williams paint CHB. It's a flat paint that works great for ceilings.

Question: Do more people use Ben Moore than Sherwin Williams?

Answer: I don't have statistics for you on that, but both brands are popular among painting contractors. I've used and like both of them, but I've used Sherwin Williams paints the most throughout my painting career.

Question: I used Duration paint on my house about nine years ago. I am very pleased and think it could go another few years, but I want to do it now. Should I use Duration or Emerald?

Answer: I would go with Duration again, based on my own experience using that paint many times over the years. It's very durable. I've never used the exterior Emerald acrylic latex before, but it's supposed to be even better than Duration exterior. I don't know if you're referring to the Emerald urethane, or the acrylic latex version, but I see no reason though to spend the extra money on Emerald when Duration lasts long too, as you know from the paint on your house. I use Emerald urethane for cabinets. The paint is very durable too.

Question: I Painted my shutters as you advise but if I scratch my nail down it, the paint scratches. Is it ok to hang with such fragile seeming paint?

Answer: No, I would let the paint cure more before installing them. If the paint was applied in high humidity, or in colder temps, it takes longer to harden. A thick coat of paint takes longer to dry too.

Question: Is there a paint consultant at the Sherwin Williams store?

Answer: The store manager is the best person to talk to about products, or you can ask them for the Sherwin Williams product hotline. They'll call it for you from the store if they can't answer your questions.

Question: Would you use Duration or Super Paint on new construction exterior Acrylic Stucco on an outdoor kitchen in South Louisiana? Prime first? If so what primer? Thanks

Answer: Yes, you can use either paint on stucco, but if the stucco is brand new it should be primed first. Use the Loxon masonry primer from Sherwin Williams. Super Paint and Duration are both good products, but I'd personally use Duration. It's a step up in durability and coverage. I use Duration for most of my exterior painting projects.

Question: I've used DutchBoy Maxbond paint on my home during the past 15 years with excellent results. I'm getting it repainted (new color) and the contractor is recommending Sherwin William Duration. He says DB costs 2X that of SW. What do you think?

Answer: I'm not familiar with the product you're referring to, but your contractor probably gets Duration through his store account at a big discounted price like I do. Contractor discounts on Sherwin Williams paints range from 30 percent to 50 percent off the regular price, so he might be right, but I don't know the cost of the paint you mention. I do know that Duration exterior paint is an excellent product and the only one I use when I paint outside. The paint is very durable and covers really well.

Comments

Matt G. (author) from United States on August 19, 2020:

Agreed. I like Benjamin Moore too, but I've always used Sherwin Williams.

Phil Mannette on August 18, 2020:

Sherwin Williams has been my brand of choice for paint because it's so easy to work with and achieve great results. Even though it is more expensive, you get your money's worth. I actually enjoy painting when I use it over other brands. I'm a huge fan because it always delivvers!

Matt G. (author) from United States on November 27, 2018:

Frances,

You'll have to use the same paint if you want the touch ups to blend in. Repainting the walls with a washable paint is your best option. Sherwin Williams Duration is a good choice. ProMar 200 flat is okay for a ceiling, but horrible for walls.

Frances Oshiro on November 23, 2018:

Our builder used Sherwin Williams ProMar 200 Flat paint in our townhouse. Just brushing against it leaves marks. Is there a better quality SW paint I can use for touch ups or do I have to use the same? I would repaint but we just moved in.

Matt G. (author) from United States on July 23, 2018:

Jesse,

I use Duration for interior and exterior painting. Cashmere is also good. For cabinet and trim painting, I use Emerald urethane. For ceilings, I like Eminence flat.

Matt G. (author) from United States on July 23, 2018:

Kristin,

I haven't used Sher Scrub, but if the paint is a flat finish, which I believe it is, I wouldn't recommend it if you want washable walls. I would go with Duration in the matte, or satin finish, or use Cashmere. Both are good paints that are washable.

Kristin McGrane on July 23, 2018:

Has anyone ever used the SW Sher Scrub? Do you know if it is washable? Any other thoughts? My contractor wants to use this on my house and I am not sure....

Jesse on June 20, 2018:

Hi matt. What will u Recomend to use to paint walls now in 2018

Matt G. (author) from United States on June 19, 2018:

Dianne,

ProMar 200 is a lower quality Sherwin Williams paint. I wrote this article many years ago and it's outdated. I rarely use the ProMar line anymore, but some folks like this paint.

Matt G. (author) from United States on June 19, 2018:

CE,

Correct. Their paint pricing is now available on the Sherwin Williams website. They have good sales events throughout the year too. Most are 30% to 40% off. I did one recently for 50% off stain.

CE on June 18, 2018:

These are contractor prices or sale prices. Not list prices. And some of them are contractor paints which means unless you have a contractor account you don’t get them for those prices.

Dianne Maxfield, Ft Collins, CO on May 31, 2018:

My painter used the Sherwin Williams paint Pro Mar 200, recommended by Customer Service. The color wasn’t mixed right and the coverage was poor. My painter said it was bad paint at the outset, but we had already purchased. Painter recommends Diamond Vogel. Never again Sherwin Williams!

Fran Quinn on April 08, 2018:

My painter used Promar 200 on my family room and hallway. The family room turned out great. But hallway showed roller marks and streaks. He repainted hallway again. It still showed roller marks. Is it possible the paint was mixed improperly?

wayne on January 09, 2018:

has anyone used any PPG products, they have some really decent stuff and very cost effective better then Sherwin Williams. Nothing was better then gool ole Duron products though when SW took over things went downhill fast they kept changing the labels and formulas for all their products and i just hate their customer service. Painter for over 30 yrs

Mike on October 16, 2017:

Superpaint for $35 in what market??..usually that stuff sells for $50-60 and not better than Ben Moore' s Ben Line of paints. Also Coronado line of paints which Ven Moore sells covers much better than promar 400 any day, even Glidden Paint/primer flat or flat/matte will do better.

jack straw on August 08, 2017:

i have used Behr, Sherwin Williams, Dutch Boy and Benjamin Moore, Valspar and off brand names.

Benjamin Moore is the best value and covers great.

Interior professionally painted and after 17 years I just wash it with TSP and it looks like new. Stained the cedar outside and it covers in one coat after prepping with TSP. Looks great.

Behr takes 2 coats to get the coverage BM has.

Sherwin Williams is like Behr. cheap paint.

Dutch Boy is excellent but expensive. One prject didn't stack up and had to touch up spots. I use primer, scape, prime, TSP, paint.

I apprenticed for a union painter.

Valspar is like Ace paint, depends on the project I wouldn't use it for my house. Ok for bird house.

I like rustoleum spray paint for metal and outdoor patio furniture.

Maxrhj on May 28, 2016:

I am a long time user of Sherwin Williams paints after having used Kelly Moore for a number of years. I tend to use a mix of Promar 400 and Promar 200 with the walls being the Promar 400 flat and doors / trim being the Promar 200 satin or semi gloss. Makes a really nice job for a good cost / quality ratio.

Many ask me why flat paint to which I respond that no wall is perfect but very much the opposite with flaws and multiple bumps and bulges. Even new walls tend to have bad tape and texturing anymore. Flat paint simply hides those imperfections where satin or gloss paints tend to highlight them. The more sheen the more the flaws show up. Many will say the gloss paints will wash better but with a good paint any wall will wash well which is another reason I like the Promar brand. Great durability and will not wash off.

Tamra McGee on February 20, 2016:

I always use Sherwin Williams paint. I recently used some old paint I had in my basement that was left over from seventeen years ago. It was a type of paint they do not carry anymore, but it was off-white satin, which was on the wall originally and I just wanted to freshen up the room. One coat did it. I have enough left over for the hallway as well. My local store could not believe it worked.

zero voc exterior paint on June 08, 2012:

There are even recipes you can find online or in books that show you how to make your own natural paints.