Here at the Paint Doctor’s Painting Service we use only quality paint because we take pride in our work, we stand behind our work and because we are watching out for the good of our customers.
There are many reasons to choose quality paint when working on your own.
- Pigments: Quality paints use higher concentrations of prime pigments, such as titanium dioxide, which provide rich, vibrant color and better hiding power. Cheap paints use fewer prime pigments and more low-quality fillers (like clay or calcium carbonate) that do not enhance color or coverage.
- Binders: Binders are the resins that help the paint adhere to the surface and form a durable film. Premium paints use superior high-quality resins (like 100% acrylic for water-based paints) that create a stronger, more flexible bond, resisting cracking, peeling, and blistering. Cheap paints use lower-grade binders that result in weaker adhesion and faster deterioration.
- Liquids/Solvents: Solvents are the liquid carriers that help apply the paint and then evaporate as it dries. Cheap paints are often diluted with a higher water or solvent content, making them thinner and runnier, which negatively impacts coverage. Quality paints have a higher ratio of solids (pigments and binders) to liquids, resulting in a thicker consistency and better coverage.
- Additives: Quality paints often include specialized additives for enhanced performance, such as mildew resistance, UV protection, and stain blocking. Many cheap paints lack these beneficial additives
Performance and Value Comparison
While cheap paint has a lower upfront cost, quality paint provides better long-term value due to its superior performance characteristics:
| Feature | Cheap House Paint | Quality House Paint |
|---|---|---|
| Coverage | Requires more coats (3-4+) for full, even coverage. | Achieves full coverage in 1-2 coats. |
| Durability | Prone to chipping, cracking, peeling, and scuffing. | Highly durable, resisting damage and wear and tear. |
| Longevity | Short lifespan, often needing repainting every 2-4 years indoors and 1-3 years outdoors. | Long lifespan, typically lasting 8-12 years indoors and 7-10 years outdoors. |
| Color Retention | Fades quickly when exposed to sunlight and the elements. | Retains color and vibrancy for years due to better pigments. |
| Application | Thinner consistency, can be streaky, patchy, and more difficult to apply evenly. | Thicker, smoother, and easier to apply, resulting in a professional finish. |
| Washability/Maintenance | Difficult to clean; scrubbing can damage the finish. | Easy to clean and highly scrub-resistant without damage. |
| Long-Term Cost | Lower initial cost, but higher long-term cost due to frequent repainting and more labor. | Higher initial cost, but lower long-term cost as it lasts longer and requires less maintenance. |
For most projects, especially high-traffic areas or exteriors where durability is essential, investing in quality paint saves time, effort, and money in the long run.
If all of this self-help talk is making you feel tired, give us a call and we can take care of your project with long-lasting, quality products, 541-497-3804.
