As a seasoned painter and decorator, I’ve had my fair share of run-ins with various paint brands.
Today, I’m going to share my insights on two well-known brands, Behr and Olympic.
We’ll delve into the nitty-gritty of their properties, performance, and pricing to help you make an informed choice for your next painting project.
Quick Summary
If you’re in a rush, here’s a quick rundown: Both Behr and Olympic offer high-quality paints with unique benefits. Behr is known for its excellent coverage and durability, making it a great choice for high-traffic areas. Olympic, on the other hand, stands out for its eco-friendly formulation and impressive stain resistance. Your choice ultimately depends on your specific project needs and personal preferences.
Behr Paint: Coverage and Durability
Behr paint is a popular choice among DIY enthusiasts and professionals alike, and it’s not hard to see why.
One of the main selling points of Behr is its excellent coverage.
This means that you typically need fewer coats to achieve a vibrant, even color. The brand’s premium lines, such as Behr Marquee, even offer one-coat coverage for select colors.
Pro Tip: To achieve the best results with Behr’s one-coat colors, start with a well-prepared surface. This might mean using a primer if you’re painting over a darker color or a glossy finish.
Moreover, Behr paints are known for their durability.
They stand up well to wear and tear, making them a solid choice for high-traffic areas like hallways or kids’ rooms.
I remember painting a client’s hallway with Behr’s Ultra Interior line a few years back, and when I visited again for a different project, the paint looked as fresh as it did on day one!
Olympic Paint: Eco-Friendly and Stain-Resistant
Olympic paint, on the other hand, has carved a niche for itself with its eco-friendly formulation.
Their paints are low-VOC (volatile organic compounds), meaning they have fewer chemicals that can harm the environment and your health.
I’ll never forget the time I painted a nursery for a couple who were expecting their first child.
They were particularly concerned about using a safe, eco-friendly paint, and Olympic’s Assurance line was the perfect fit.
It provided a beautiful finish and the peace of mind that comes from using a low-VOC paint.
In addition to its eco-friendly benefits, Olympic paints are also known for their excellent stain resistance.
This makes them a great option for areas that are prone to spills and stains, such as kitchens or children’s rooms.
Behr vs. Olympic: Pricing and Availability
When it comes to pricing, Behr tends to be slightly more expensive than Olympic.
However, considering its coverage and durability, many homeowners find it to be worth the extra cost.
Behr paints are also widely available, being the house brand of Home Depot. This means you can easily find them in any Home Depot store or on their online platform.
Olympic paints, on the other hand, are a bit less accessible since they’re primarily sold through Lowe’s and independent retailers.
Frequently Asked Questions Section (FAQs)
Q. How does the color selection of Behr compare to Olympic?
A: Both Behr and Olympic offer a wide range of colors. However, Behr is often praised for its comprehensive color palette, which includes an extensive range of vibrant, nuanced hues and a variety of finish options.
Olympic also has a good selection, but some users find it a bit more limited compared to Behr.
Q. Are both brands easy to apply?
A: Yes, both Behr and Olympic paints are designed to be user-friendly and easy to apply.
They both have good flow and leveling properties, which help to ensure a smooth, streak-free finish.
However, always remember to properly prepare your surfaces before painting for the best results.
Q. How do the warranties for Behr and Olympic compare?
A: Both Behr and Olympic offer warranties on their products, but the specific terms can vary depending on the product line.
In general, Behr tends to offer longer warranties, some up to a lifetime limited warranty, reflecting their confidence in their product’s durability.
Olympic also provides warranties, but they are typically shorter.
Q. How do Behr and Olympic perform in terms of odor?
A: As paint technologies have evolved, paint odors have been significantly reduced across the board.
Both Behr and Olympic have low-odor formulas, especially in their low-VOC and zero-VOC lines.
However, Olympic’s emphasis on eco-friendly products often translates into even lower odor levels.
Q. How do the two brands compare in terms of drying time?
A: Both Behr and Olympic paints have comparable drying times.
However, drying times can vary based on factors like the specific product line, the number of coats applied, and the environmental conditions during application (humidity, temperature, etc.).
Always check the product specifications for the most accurate drying times.
Q. Are Behr and Olympic paints suitable for exterior use?
A: Yes, both Behr and Olympic offer paints specifically designed for exterior use.
These products are formulated to withstand the elements and offer features like UV resistance, waterproofing, and resistance to peeling, chipping, and fading.
Conclusion
Choosing between Behr and Olympic boils down to your specific needs and preferences.
If you prioritize coverage, durability, and don’t mind a slightly higher price tag, Behr could be the better option for you.
If you’re looking for an eco-friendly, stain-resistant paint and are working with a tighter budget, Olympic might be your perfect match.
Remember, the most important thing is that you’re satisfied with the end result.
So, take the time to consider your needs, do your research, and don’t be afraid to ask for advice.
Suggested Products:
Behr
- Behr Marquee Interior Paint and Primer: Behr Marquee is Behr’s most advanced interior paint and primer. It’s known for its one-coat hide guaranteed in over 1,000 different Behr colors. This product provides exceptional value and durability with its stain-blocking technology and excellent coverage.
- Behr Premium Plus Exterior Paint and Primer: This is a 100% acrylic, low-VOC formula designed for a variety of exterior surfaces. It offers excellent durability, a mildew-resistant finish, and it’s also resistant to cracking and peeling.
- Behr DeckOver: This innovative product is designed to bring new life to old wood and concrete surfaces. It’s 100% acrylic and provides a slip-resistant, waterproof finish that can extend the life of your deck by resisting weather, wear, and cracking.
Olympic
- Olympic Maximum Exterior Stain and Sealant: This all-weather stain and sealant offers enhanced waterproofing protection and UV defense to protect against cracking, peeling, and blistering. It’s known for its durability and resistance to mildew, algae, and mold.
- Olympic ONE Interior Paint and Primer: Olympic ONE is a high-quality, all-in-one paint and primer. It provides excellent coverage and a durable, washable finish that stands up well to everyday wear and tear.
- Olympic RESCUE IT! MAX Resurfacer + Primer + Sealant: This is a high-performance product designed to cover worn or weathered wood and concrete to provide a fresh, rejuvenated surface. It locks down splinters, fills cracks up to ¼ inch, and provides a barefoot friendly, extremely slip-resistant texture.