If you're anything like me, you've probably spent hours in the paint aisle of your local hardware store, trying to decide between brands.
Last year, I had a big renovation project and had to choose between two popular paint brands: Glidden and Pratt & Lambert.
It wasn't easy, but I managed to make a decision. Today, I'll share my findings with you to help make your choice a little bit easier.
Quick Summary
Glidden and Pratt & Lambert are both well-established paint brands with distinct strengths and weaknesses. Glidden offers a more affordable and widely accessible option, while Pratt & Lambert excels in durability and finish options. However, both brands have a strong commitment to environmental responsibility and offer a variety of color options. Read on for a more detailed comparison.
Overview of Glidden and Pratt & Lambert
Glidden Paint
Glidden is a reputable brand in the paint industry, known for its budget-friendly yet high-quality paints.
The brand offers a range of products suitable for both indoor and outdoor projects.
As a professional painter, I've always been impressed by the quality Glidden provides for its price point.
Pratt & Lambert Paint
Pratt & Lambert, on the other hand, is often associated with premium, high-end paint products.
The brand's reputation for quality is impressive, and they have a wide range of products that are often favored by professional painters and decorators for their durability and beautiful finish.
Coverage and Durability
Glidden
Glidden's paints provide good coverage, often requiring only one or two coats for a vibrant, even color.
Their paints are also known for their durability, standing up well to wear and tear over time.
Pratt & Lambert
Pratt & Lambert's coverage is superb, often covering effectively in just one coat.
Their paints are also incredibly durable, often outlasting other brands. In fact, when I painted my living room with their Accolade Interior Paint, it still looked as fresh and vibrant after a year as it did the day I painted it.
Pro Tip: Remember that application technique can impact paint coverage. Ensure to load your brush or roller correctly to avoid too thin or too thick coats.
Price
Glidden is the more budget-friendly of the two brands, while Pratt & Lambert's prices reflect its premium status.
But remember, sometimes paying a bit more upfront can save you in the long run due to fewer coats and longer durability.
Availability
Glidden is widely available at various retailers, making it easy to find for your next project.
Pratt & Lambert, while not as widely distributed, can be found in specialty paint stores and select locations.
Color Options and Environmental Impact
Both Glidden and Pratt & Lambert offer a vast array of color options, catering to various styles and preferences.
As for environmental impact, both brands are committed to sustainability. They have a range of low-VOC and zero-VOC paints, which are better for the environment and healthier for you.
Important: Always use paints in well-ventilated areas, even if they are low or zero-VOC.
Sheen and Finish Options
Both brands offer a variety of sheen and finish options, from flat and eggshell to semi-gloss and high-gloss.
I remember when I had to paint a high-traffic hallway, Pratt & Lambert's semi-gloss was perfect for the job, providing both durability and a nice sheen.
Ease of Application
In terms of application, both brands are relatively easy to work with. Glidden is particularly popular among DIYers due to its easy application.
Customer Support and Satisfaction
Glidden and Pratt & Lambert both provide substantial customer support.
Both brands have informative websites and responsive customer service departments.
Glidden's reputation for quality customer service is well-established.
Many users have praised their knowledgeable staff and helpful tips.
Pratt & Lambert, on the other hand, is renowned for their personalized approach.
They're known for taking time to fully address customers' queries, giving detailed advice, and solving any issues swiftly.
As for customer satisfaction, both brands score well.
Glidden's affordability, color range, and coverage make it a popular choice among customers.
Pratt & Lambert also has a high satisfaction rate due to their premium quality products, color vibrancy, and excellent customer service.
Other Considerations
When comparing Glidden to Pratt & Lambert, it's essential to keep in mind that each brand has its own strengths.
Glidden is an excellent choice for budget-conscious consumers looking for quality paint.
It's also ideal for large-scale projects due to its affordability.
Pratt & Lambert, on the other hand, is a great option for those seeking premium, designer-quality paint.
Their vibrant color options and unique finishes allow for more creative and personalized design choices.
Frequently Asked Questions Section (FAQs)
Q. How do Glidden and Pratt & Lambert compare in terms of color accuracy?
A: Both Glidden and Pratt & Lambert offer color accuracy, meaning the color you see in the swatch or sample is the color you'll get on your walls.
However, Pratt & Lambert's premium product line is often praised for exceptional color accuracy and richness.
Q. Do Glidden and Pratt & Lambert offer paint and primer in one?
A: Yes, both brands offer paint and primer in one product. This can save you time and effort during the painting process, as you won't need to apply a separate primer before painting.
Q. How do the two brands compare in terms of drying time?
A: The drying time for both Glidden and Pratt & Lambert paints can vary depending on the specific product and the conditions where it's applied.
Generally, both brands' paints dry to the touch within a couple of hours. It's recommended to wait at least 24 hours before applying a second coat.
Q. What types of paint do Glidden and Pratt & Lambert offer?
A: Both brands offer a variety of paint types including interior, exterior, oil-based, latex, and specialty paints such as ceiling paint and chalkboard paint.
Q. Are Glidden and Pratt & Lambert paints resistant to mildew and mold?
A: Both Glidden and Pratt & Lambert offer paints with added mildew-resistant properties, which can be especially useful in damp areas such as bathrooms and basements.
Always check the product details to ensure you're choosing a paint with the properties you need.
Q. Can Glidden and Pratt & Lambert colors be matched at other paint stores?
A: Yes, most paint stores can match colors from other brands. However, there might be slight variations in the final color due to differences in base paints and colorants.
Q. Is there a difference in the shelf life of Glidden and Pratt & Lambert paints?
A: The shelf life of paint can depend on how it's stored.
Generally, unopened cans of latex or water-based paint can last up to 10 years and oil-based paint up to 15 years.
Both Glidden and Pratt & Lambert recommend using their products within that time frame for optimal results.
Q. How do the two brands compare in terms of availability?
A: Glidden paint is widely available at many home improvement and paint specialty stores across the country.
Pratt & Lambert paint is also widely available, though it tends to be found more often at paint specialty stores and certain home improvement stores.
Q. How are Glidden and Pratt & Lambert paints for covering dark colors?
A: Both brands offer paints with good coverage. However, when covering very dark colors, it may be necessary to apply a primer or an extra coat of paint, regardless of the brand.
For the best results, check with the paint store about the best approach for covering dark colors.
Conclusion
In conclusion, both Glidden and Pratt & Lambert offer quality products with their own unique strengths.
Glidden offers budget-friendly, high-performing paint while Pratt & Lambert offers premium quality, vibrant colors, and unique finishes.
Your choice between Glidden and Pratt & Lambert will ultimately depend on your specific needs and budget.
Both are reputable brands with good customer support and a range of eco-friendly options.
Remember, no matter which brand you choose, preparation and application are key to achieving a perfect finish.
Suggested Products:
Glidden
- Glidden Premium Interior Paint and Primer: This product is a high-quality, interior latex paint and primer in one, providing easy application and excellent hide, effectively covering old marks and stains.
- Glidden Essentials Interior Paint: This is a budget-friendly option that still offers good coverage and a wide variety of color choices. It's a reliable choice for less-trafficked rooms.
- Glidden HydroResist Exterior Paint: This is Glidden's best-quality exterior paint. It has excellent cracking and peeling resistance, offers great hide and coverage, and has excellent weather resistance.
Pratt & Lambert
- Pratt & Lambert Accolade Interior Premium Paint & Primer: Accolade is Pratt & Lambert's top-tier interior paint and primer. It offers excellent coverage, durability, and a wide array of colors.
- Pratt & Lambert Pro-Hide Gold Exterior Paint: This high-quality exterior paint is renowned for its durability, excellent coverage, and resistance to weather conditions, ideal for various outdoor applications.
- Pratt & Lambert RedSeal Interior Paint: This paint is a mid-range option that offers good coverage and a large color selection. It's a reliable choice for interior walls and trim in any room of the house.
