Does Expensive Paint Pay Off?

$14 per gallon or $40. What's the difference?

Imagine the perfect latex paint. It sticks to anything, covers in one coat, levels smoothly, is strong yet flexible and lasts for decades. It never fades or chalks. It discourages mildew growth and is formulated so you can apply it in cold weather. And it doesn't drip. Unfortunately, that perfect paint has yet to be developed. Never will be, either. The ingredients in a batch of paint just have too many limitations and trade-offs. But while there may be no such thing as perfect paint, there are definitely high- and low-quality paints. Here we'll look at the differences, particularly as they apply to exterior latex paints. And why it's worth it to buy the good stuff.

Remember, you get what you pay for »

Painting Tips

14 tip collections to make your next project easier

Collection 1: How to Paint Faster
Master painter, Jay Gorton, shares tips and techniques from 30 years of residential painting work, covering everything from roller selection to taping to caulking and filling. Jay got his first painting lessons when he worked for his father-in-law painting houses in the Minneapolis area. Since then he’s perfected his trade and grown a business from a one-man operation to a team of more than 30 painters at times. Most of his work is in high-end new construction where he specializes in glass-smooth enamel finishes, faux-finished walls, and antiqued and distressed woodwork. It’s from his background in this high-quality production painting that Jay gathered the tips he’s showing us here.

Save time, money and unnecessary messes »

Decorative Painting Tips

Create designer effects with these painting tools

The trouble with many do-it-yourself decorative painting systems is that they require more artistic skill than most of us care to develop for the occasional paint job. But some do-it-yourself painting systems now sold at home centers and paint stores can get you darn close to the high-priced expert effects. These kits come with everything you need to achieve beautiful painted walls that will look like they were painted by a pro.

Get a professional finish without the pro price tag »

Do you have a great tip to share?

We’re always looking for great tips and we’ll pay $100 for any we publish in The Family Handyman magazine. Submit your tip »