As a seasoned painter and decorator, I've used countless brands of paint, each with their unique strengths and weaknesses.
Among the myriad options, two names frequently come up: Dulux and Pratt & Lambert.
If you're wondering which one would best suit your project, you've come to the right place.
Let's delve into the nitty-gritty of these two paint powerhouses.
Quick Summary
Choosing between Dulux and Pratt & Lambert depends largely on your specific needs and budget. Both offer good coverage, durability, and a range of finishes. Dulux is widely available and reasonably priced, while Pratt & Lambert is a premium brand known for its luxurious finish and superior customer support.
Dulux: The Overview
Founded in the UK, Dulux is now a global brand synonymous with quality paints.
Their vast color palette, affordable pricing, and user-friendly products have made them a favorite amongst DIY enthusiasts and professionals alike.
Pratt & Lambert: The Overview
Established in 1849 in the United States, Pratt & Lambert is a premium paint brand revered for its luxurious finish and high-quality products.
Their commitment to craftsmanship and color excellence often makes them the choice for high-end projects.
Coverage and Durability
Both Dulux and Pratt & Lambert offer excellent coverage and durability.
However, Pratt & Lambert's Accolade line is known for its exceptional one-coat coverage and resistance to fading.
Dulux's "Diamond" range, on the other hand, offers an excellent balance between durability and price.
Price Comparison
Brand |
Average Price per Gallon |
|
Dulux |
$35 - $50 |
|
Pratt & Lambert |
$45 - $70 |
Dulux generally offers a better value for money, but if budget isn't a concern, Pratt & Lambert's premium pricing can translate into a higher quality finish.
Availability
While Dulux paint is widely available in various countries and can even be ordered online, Pratt & Lambert's distribution is more limited, making it less accessible.
Color Options and Environmental Impact
Both brands offer a vast color palette, but Pratt & Lambert stands out for its artisanal color collection.
Regarding environmental impact, both companies have made efforts to produce low-VOC paints, contributing to healthier indoor air quality.
Sheen and Finish Options
Dulux and Pratt & Lambert provide a variety of sheen and finish options, catering to different customer needs.
From matte to high gloss, there is something for every project.
Ease of Application
Both brands offer self-priming paints, aiding ease of application.
In my experience, Pratt & Lambert paints go on smoother, but Dulux paints are not far behind, especially their "Easycare" range.
Customer Support and Satisfaction
Pratt & Lambert's customer support is generally considered superior.
However, Dulux also has a good reputation and offers several online resources for DIY painters.
Frequently Asked Questions Section (FAQs)
Q. Does Dulux offer any eco-friendly or low-VOC paint options?
A: Yes, Dulux does offer eco-friendly and low-VOC paint options.
They have a line of products known as Dulux Green that is specifically designed to have lower environmental impact.
These paints are low-VOC and have less impact on indoor air quality.
Q. I have a commercial project, which brand would be more suitable?
A: Both Dulux and Pratt & Lambert offer high-quality products suitable for commercial use.
However, Pratt & Lambert is often considered for high-end commercial projects due to its superior finish and durability.
Dulux's commercial range also provides good durability and affordability, which could be beneficial for larger projects.
Q. Are there any special primers recommended for use with Pratt & Lambert paints?
A: While Pratt & Lambert offer self-priming paints, they also have a line of primers designed to maximize the performance of their paints.
For example, their "RedSeal" primer is designed to enhance adhesion, hide and ensure a uniform finish.
Q. Does Dulux provide online consultation for color selection?
A: Yes, Dulux offers online color consultation services.
They have several tools on their website to help customers visualize different color options in their space.
You can also speak with a Dulux color consultant to get personalized advice.
Q. Does Pratt & Lambert offer paint products for exterior use?
A: Absolutely. Pratt & Lambert offer a range of exterior paints known for their durability and resistance to weather conditions.
Their Accolade Exterior line, for example, offers excellent fade resistance and durability.
Q. I am looking to paint a children's room, which paint would be safer and more durable?
A: Both brands offer paint ranges that would be suitable for a child's room.
Dulux's "Easycare" range is durable and washable, making it a great option for areas that may require frequent cleaning.
Likewise, Pratt & Lambert's Accolade line is durable and resistant to washing.
Both companies offer low-VOC paints, which are safer for indoor air quality.
Conclusion
Deciding between Dulux and Pratt & Lambert is subjective and depends on your individual needs.
For high-end projects and superior finishes, Pratt & Lambert is a fantastic choice, whereas, for those on a budget who still want a quality finish, Dulux does the job beautifully.
Remember, regardless of the paint you choose, proper preparation and application techniques are key to achieving to reduce length of output.
Suggested Products:
Dulux
- Dulux Weathershield: This is a high-quality exterior paint that provides excellent protection against the elements. It is designed to resist peeling, flaking and blistering, and it includes a 15-year all-weather protection.
- Dulux Easycare Washable & Tough: As an interior paint, this product is both washable and durable, perfect for homes with kids or pets. It uses unique stain repellent technology to repel liquid spills, making them easier to wash away.
- Dulux Trade Vinyl Matt: Popular among professional decorators, this high-quality emulsion offers superior coverage and opacity. It's suitable for all normal interior walls and ceilings and is known for its low VOC content.
Pratt & Lambert
- Accolade Exterior Paint & Primer: It's a premium paint with excellent durability and resistance against weather conditions, providing a beautiful and long-lasting finish.
- RedSeal Interior Latex: This is a durable and washable latex paint that provides excellent coverage, making it ideal for interior walls and ceilings. It's also low in VOCs, making it a healthier choice for your home.
- Aquatone Waterborne Stain: This semi-transparent stain enhances the natural beauty of wood while providing excellent protection.
