It can be easy to get caught up in a great deal with paint, especially when some of the higher-quality paint can cost you a lot more per can, but you really are better off with high-quality paint.
Not only are you going to get a superior finish with better quality paint, but you are also going to save money in the short and long term by having paint that covers an area with fewer coats, and paint that will last longer.
Let’s look at some reasons why all paint is not created equal.
Pigment
All paints have pigment, but it is the type of pigment that matters.
There are two main types of pigment: prime and extender.
Prime pigments are what give the paint its color, but they also directly affect the hide, durability, fading, and gloss of the paint.
Extender pigments are basically filler; they add bulk to the product but little else.
With that in mind, it is obvious that the more prime pigments you have, the better, but that is not the whole story. There is also a variety of quality within prime pigments. So, what you are looking for is more prime over extender but also quality prime pigment.
The Benefits Of Prime Pigment
Prime pigment gives you better hide, durability, fading, and gloss.
In the short term, this means that it takes less paint to cover an area, and when it has been applied, it will look a lot better than paint with more extender pigment. In essence, the color will be brighter, more vivid, and as colorful as the color should be.
In the long term, you have a paint that will last longer, holding up better to scuffs, dents, and scratches, while also retaining its color for longer.
Binders
A binder is basically what holds the pigment together, giving you an even finish on the wall. Binders are usually made from pure oils, such as linseed or soy, though they can be created with modified oils too.
The quality of the binder will affect the quality of the finish, with higher quality binders giving you a more even finish, and they also prevent cracks from appearing. Higher quality also means that the paint adheres to the surface better, giving you a finish that lasts longer.
Carriers
Pigments and binders only fill a small part of a paint can. The bulk of the can is filled with liquid carriers. Think of it like adding water to ground coffee to make a cup of coffee. The better quality the coffee, the better your drink will be, but you still need water to make up the bulk of the drink.
As with coffee, the higher the ratio of water, the more watered-down the final product will be. Pigment, binders, and carriers are all important in paint but the more pigment and binder you have, the better the paint quality will be.
Pigment and binders cost more than carrier liquids, so, when you are buying high-quality paint, it is this that you are paying for.
Additives
The final component of paint is the additives. Many low-end paints do not have any additives, while some have very few. Along with more prime pigment and binder, it is these additives that make buying high-quality paint worthwhile.
Here are some common additives:
- Modifiers to create better flow and leveling, giving more hide when the paint adheres.
- Mildewcides to prevent the growth of mildew.
- Dispersing agents to better distribute the pigment for a more even color across a room.
- Preservatives to lengthen the life of the paint.
The more additives you add to paint, the more it is going to cost. This is one of the main reasons why high-quality paint costs more than low-quality.
So, What Are The Benefits Of High-Quality Paint?
As you have read above, there are many factors that influence the price of paint, and most high-quality paints are going to cost you more, though that does not always mean that paint that costs more is high-quality. Always research the ingredients in paint before making an investment.
Here are the benefits of making a wise paint investment.
Consistency
Better pigment, binding, and distribution means that the paint is going to give a consistent finish across all walls and surfaces. When you paint a room, there is going to be no difference between walls.
Less Work
Because high-quality paint covers walls better, you need fewer coats, saving you a lot of time. But it does not end there. As the hiding is better, and the paint will crack less, you do not need to retouch the finish as much.
Easy Clean
Better additives and binders make the finished paint job more dirt-resistant and easier to clean. There will be far less maintenance. You will not have as much mildew appearing in any cracks (especially if the paint job is outside).
Savings
Even though you might have to shell out more cash initially, you are going to save money in the long run. Not only are you going to save time during and after painting, but you are going to use less paint, and the paint is going to last a lot longer. Future you is going to appreciate the investment.
Related: 10 Signs It’s Time For An Exterior Repaint
Wrapping Up
High-quality paint is more expensive, but you now know why.
Better ingredients cost more, and those ingredients really make a difference. Not only are you going to save money, but you are going to save time and effort too.
Take the time to investigate what you are buying, and enjoy the benefits in the long run.
