Is expensive paint really better?

When buying any DIY supply, considering your budget as well as your needs is a top priority. But when it comes to paint are expensive products really better? Here we compare cheap paints with more expensive paints to answer that very question.

Why good quality paint is important

Whether applied internally or externally, a good lick of paint can work wonders for the look and feel of a home. In addition to making your home as pretty as a picture in the short term, painting can increase the value of your property in the long run. The protective properties of paint are also renowned, providing the cost-effective coverage you need to safeguard against the wear and tear every home sustains.

A good quality paint product is the key to unlocking the perks mentioned above and so much more, and as you’ll quickly discover when shopping for paint not all were created equal.

Cheap vs. expensive paint – which is better?

Whilst we don’t expect you to blow the budget on your choice of paint, avoiding cheaper products is a must for a professional finish. Cheap paint is less costly due to its thinner consistency, which is the result of less pigment and binder being added to the mix.

The thinner consistency of paint means the product is likely to offer less coverage per coat. It may also provide a less intense or vibrant colour because of the lower concentration of pigment.

More expensive paint on the other hand tends to offer better coverage meaning you’ll need less coats. These products are often easier to apply, last longer, perform better, and provide a higher level of resistance against wear, tear, cracks and other damage.

In some instances however, the more expensive paints are not as good as the name. This means you may be paying over the odds for a particular brand rather than the best quality product.

The secret to finding the right paint

When shopping for paint, don’t focus too much on price. Instead look at the quality each product offers. Invest in a tester pot where possible to check the coverage and quality on a small area of the room. As well as finding the ideal colour, examine how deep the shade is. An intense, more luminous colour will be evidence of higher pigmentation and better quality.

Remember, the finish of your paint can also be influenced by how you prepare the surface before painting.

You don’t have to take on that paint job alone! Our decorators can assist with paint selection, prep and application. Look for a local decorator today.