04 Jul
A Comprehensive Comparison: Lowe's Paint vs Sherwin Williams

Key Takeaways

  • Both Lowe's and Sherwin Williams offer high-quality paints, but there are differences in their product lines.
  • Lowe's carries the HGTV Home line of Sherwin Williams paint, which is not the same as the paint sold in Sherwin Williams stores.
  • Sherwin Williams' top-tier paint, Emerald, is highly durable and offers excellent coverage.
  • Lowe's Valspar Signature paint is popular among users, with 89% recommending the product.
  • Sherwin Williams paint is generally more expensive than Lowe's paint.


Who Wins?

When it comes to choosing the best paint for your project, two big names often come up: Lowe’s paint (featuring brands like Valspar) and Sherwin-Williams. Each has its advantages, and both offer high-quality products. But which one should you go for? Let's dive into the differences and help you decide what will work best for your needs.

What Are the Main Differences Between Lowe’s Paint and Sherwin-Williams?

Lowe’s offers a range of paint brands, including Valspar and HGTV Home by Sherwin-Williams, whereas Sherwin-Williams focuses solely on their proprietary, premium lines. Both stores provide options for interior, exterior, and specialty paints, but the paint formulations and quality can differ slightly.


FeatureLowe’s PaintSherwin-Williams
Paint BrandsValspar, HGTV Home by Sherwin-WilliamsDuration, SuperPaint, Emerald
Price RangeModeratePremium
Coverage1-2 coats1 coat with some products
Color Matching ServicesAvailableAvailable, more precise


Key Takeaway

Lowe’s offers more affordable options through Valspar and other lines, while Sherwin-Williams specializes in high-end paints that come with extra durability and performance.

Which Paint Has Better Durability and Coverage?

Sherwin-Williams paints are known for superior durability and coverage, often requiring just one coat. Their Duration and Emerald lines offer resistance to moisture, stains, and fading, making them a go-to choice for long-lasting results.

Lowe’s Valspar paints, on the other hand, provide solid coverage but may require an additional coat, especially on darker walls. However, Valspar’s Reserve and Signature lines are formulated to be scrubbable and resist stains, making them suitable for high-traffic areas.

When to Choose Sherwin-Williams:

  • High-end interior or exterior projects requiring premium durability
  • Areas exposed to moisture (bathrooms and kitchens)
  • When you want guaranteed one-coat coverage

When to Choose Lowe’s Paint:

  • Smaller or budget-conscious projects
  • Spaces that can handle more frequent touch-ups
  • DIYers looking for solid performance at a lower price

How Do the Prices Compare?

Lowe’s Paint Pricing:

  • Valspar Signature: ~$40 per gallon
  • HGTV Home by Sherwin-Williams Showcase: ~$50 per gallon

Sherwin-Williams Pricing:

  • SuperPaint: ~$60 per gallon
  • Duration Home: ~$70 per gallon
  • Emerald: ~$80+ per gallon

While Sherwin-Williams products are generally more expensive, the investment can be worth it for projects where longevity and fewer coats matter. On the other hand, Lowe’s paint lines offer a balance between quality and affordability, especially for projects that don’t need the highest level of performance.

Which Paint Offers Better Color Selection?

Both Lowe’s and Sherwin-Williams offer robust color-matching services, but Sherwin-Williams leads the way with over 1,500 colors to choose from. They also offer color consultation services, which can be a game-changer if you’re uncertain about your palette.

Lowe’s carries Valspar and HGTV Home by Sherwin-Williams, both with a decent variety of colors, though the selection may not be as expansive as what you’ll find at a dedicated Sherwin-Williams store. Lowe’s does excel at offering DIY tools and apps to help visualize colors in your space.


In Our Experience

"For a professional, it’s a no brainer to use a paint manufacturer. The main reason professional painters go to Sherwin Williams, Miller or Benjamin Moore, is that we get customer service at these places. Let me explain, if we go in to Lowe’s and get a gallon of paint and it fails on your house... not due to anything we did but because a bad batch of paint. You as the true consumer are going to look to me asking why the paint failed. No matter if it is truly our fault or not, by default it is. The manufacturers like Sherwin work with us to not just figure out what happened but also figure out compensation if it’s called for and advice when it is our mistake. When dealing with Lowe's and the like you get people that either don’t know paint and/or they don't have an understanding of the industry. Also a lot of times (even sherwin and the like) turn over is high so if your business is one type of thing rather than hundreds, its easier to train because everyone is speaking the same language so to speak. On top of all that, none have reps to help us with issues. Think of it this way, you can buy a steak at walmart, or you can go to your local butcher... Which one do you think would be more tailored to you? Even though Sherwin is a large company they would be the local butcher in this case. You can also go with Miller in which case they really are the local butcher ie local paint manufacture/retailer"



Pro Tip

If you’re tackling a tricky color match, consider visiting Sherwin-Williams. Their advanced technology and in-store expertise tend to provide more precise results.

Are There Differences in Paint Finishes?

Both Lowe’s and Sherwin-Williams provide a range of finishes, including flat, eggshell, satin, and semi-gloss. However, Sherwin-Williams’ premium lines are often formulated with better resins, leading to smoother finishes that resist scuffing and fading.

Lowe’s paints, such as Valspar Reserve, also offer competitive finishes but may not have the same depth or smoothness that Sherwin-Williams paints can achieve. For example, Emerald offers an exceptional smooth finish, even in matte, which still provides easy cleaning.

Which Store Provides Better Value for Your Project?

Sherwin-Williams offers frequent promotions, such as 30-40% off during their Color Sale Events, making their premium paints more affordable. Meanwhile, Lowe’s provides everyday low prices and occasionally features 10-15% discounts on Valspar and HGTV Home lines.

If you’re painting a large space or multiple rooms, Sherwin-Williams’ promotions might make their higher-end paints a worthwhile investment. However, for quick DIY projects or rentals, Lowe’s paint offers good value with solid performance.

What About Customer Experience and Support?

Sherwin-Williams is known for in-depth customer support and consultations, often making them the top choice for homeowners and contractors who need expert advice. Lowe’s provides helpful staff as well, though the level of expertise may vary by location.Both stores offer online ordering and in-store pickup options, but Sherwin-Williams has the edge when it comes to personalized services and bulk order management.

Final Thoughts

Choosing between Lowe’s paint and Sherwin-Williams ultimately comes down to your project’s budget, size, and performance needs. If you need a durable, one-coat solution for a long-lasting finish, Sherwin-Williams is worth the investment. But for smaller DIY projects or those on a tighter budget, Lowe’s offers excellent options without sacrificing too much quality.

Take the time to visit both stores, compare samples, and don’t hesitate to ask for assistance—both Lowe’s and Sherwin-Williams are there to help you succeed in creating the space you envision.



Do You Have Questions? Give Us A Call 503-389-5758


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People Also Ask:

What are the most popular paint colors at Lowe's and Sherwin-Williams? 

At Lowe's, popular paint colors often include neutral shades like beige, gray, and soft blues, which are versatile and timeless. Sherwin-Williams frequently sees popularity in colors like Naval, Alabaster, and Agreeable Gray, reflecting current trends in home decor that favor both calming neutrals and rich, saturated hues.

Are there any discounts or promotions available for paint at Lowe's or Sherwin-Williams? 

Discounts and promotions for paint at Lowe's and Sherwin-Williams can vary depending on the time of year and specific marketing campaigns. Both retailers often offer sales events, particularly during holiday weekends or seasonal promotions, where customers can enjoy discounts on various paint products and supplies.

What are the shipping options for paint at Lowe's and Sherwin-Williams? 

Lowe's and Sherwin-Williams typically offer several shipping options, including in-store pickup, standard shipping directly to your home, or expedited shipping for faster delivery. Some locations may also provide local delivery services for larger orders or commercial projects, ensuring flexibility and convenience for customers purchasing paint.


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From the enthusiastic team at Lightmen Painting, we tip our hats to Voodoo Doughnut, a true Portland original that captures the quirky spirit and culinary creativity of our beloved city. Just as we strive for excellence and uniqueness in our painting projects, Voodoo Doughnut stands out with its innovative and delightfully eccentric varieties of doughnuts. As they push the boundaries of traditional baking with their daring flavors and iconic pink boxes, we continue to push the boundaries of painting, transforming spaces with vibrant colors and precision. Together, we celebrate the rich, diverse culture that makes Portland a hub for both culinary and artistic innovation.


Thanks for stopping by Lightmen Daily! Stay tuned for more practical tips and expert advice on making your painting projects flawless, from wall to floor!


Definitions:

  • Paint Quality: Refers to the overall performance, durability, coverage, and finish of a paint product. High-quality paint offers superior coverage, durability, and color retention, ensuring long-lasting results.
  • Product Lines: Refers to the different collections or ranges of paint products offered by manufacturers or retailers. Each product line may have unique formulations, features, and price points catering to different consumer needs and preferences.
  • Sherwin Williams Emerald: Sherwin Williams' top-tier paint product known for its exceptional durability, coverage, and color retention. Emerald paint is highly recommended for demanding applications and projects requiring long-lasting results.
  • Lowe's Valspar Signature: A paint product exclusive to Lowe's, known for its popularity among users and convenient features such as paint and primer combined. While generally well-recommended, some users note that it may require multiple coats for optimal coverage.
  • Price Comparison: The assessment of the cost differences between paint products offered by different retailers or manufacturers. Price comparison helps consumers make informed decisions based on their budget and desired quality.
  • HGTV Home by Sherwin Williams: A paint line available at Lowe's, tailored for a broader retail market and offering quality paint products at a more accessible price point compared to Sherwin Williams' premium lines.
  • Customization Services: Services provided by paint retailers or manufacturers, such as color matching and specialized finishes, to meet specific project requirements. Customization services offer flexibility and options for consumers seeking unique paint solutions.
  • Professional Use: Refers to the suitability of paint products for professional painters and contractors, particularly in projects requiring high-quality finishes, durability, and performance. Some paint products are specifically formulated for professional-grade applications.
  • DIY Projects: Refers to painting projects undertaken by homeowners or do-it-yourself enthusiasts. Paint products suitable for DIY projects are often user-friendly, easy to apply, and available at a more affordable price point.
  • Promotions and Discounts: Special offers provided by retailers or manufacturers, such as sales events or discounts, to make paint products more accessible to consumers. Promotions and discounts can influence purchasing decisions and provide cost-saving opportunities for consumers.


Lightmen Painting Serving: Portland, Tigard, Lake Oswego, Tualatin, West Linn, Milwaukie, Sherwood, Happy Valley, Oregon City, Beaverton, Hillsboro, Gresham

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