What to Know Before Visiting Paint Supply Stores
If you're getting ready to update your space with a new coat of paint, your first stop should be your local paint supply store. Walking in unprepared can lead to confusion and wasted time. Knowing what you're looking for and what to ask helps you get exactly what you need without second-guessing your decisions.
Know Your Paint Types Before You Shop
Understanding your paint options ahead of time will make the process easier. Water-based paints, often called latex, are a solid choice for interior walls because they dry quickly and clean up with soap and water. They also tend to have lower odour, making them more user-friendly for indoor projects.
Oil-based paints are more durable and resist wear better, which makes them suitable for trim, cabinetry, doors, and exterior surfaces that are exposed to changing weather or frequent handling. The cleanup is more involved since it requires mineral spirits or paint thinner, but the finish is smooth and long-lasting. Each type of paint serves a purpose, and the right one depends on the surface you're working with and the results you want to achieve.
Understand How Paint Finish Impacts the Final Look
Finish is another factor that affects how your project turns out. A flat or matte finish works well in areas where you want to hide wall imperfections, such as ceilings or rooms that don’t see a lot of activity. These finishes are less reflective and create a soft, even appearance, but they can be harder to clean.
Eggshell and satin finishes offer a slight sheen and are more durable, making them ideal for moderate-use areas like bedrooms, hallways, and living rooms. They strike a good balance between aesthetics and function. For kitchens, bathrooms, laundry rooms, or baseboards that get wiped down frequently, semi-gloss or gloss finishes hold up better and are easier to clean. They reflect more light and are more resistant to moisture, which is especially important in high-humidity spaces.
Estimate the Right Amount of Paint
Before you buy, it’s worth doing the math. One gallon of paint typically covers around 350 to 400 square feet. Measure your walls and multiply the height by the width to get the square footage. If you’re painting multiple coats or a surface that absorbs paint quickly, like new drywall or bare wood, plan to buy extra.
Also, consider how many colours you're using and whether you’ll need separate paint for ceilings, trim, or accent walls. Bringing these measurements with you to the paint supply store helps the staff guide you toward the right quantity and saves you from making a second trip later.
Choose Colour Carefully and Test at Home
Colour selection takes some patience. A paint chip under fluorescent lights at the store can look completely different once it’s on your wall at home. Morning and evening light affect how colours appear, as do surrounding materials like flooring, cabinets, and furniture.
Instead of guessing, buy a few sample pots and apply the paint directly to your wall. Observe the colour throughout the day under both natural and artificial light. This small step helps you avoid costly mistakes and ensures the final look aligns with your vision. Sampling on your actual wall is the best way to see how the colour behaves in your space.
Use the Staff at Paint Supply Stores as a Resource
Staff at paint supply stores can be incredibly helpful, especially if you’re unsure what products are best for your project. Many of them have hands-on experience and know how to match products to your specific needs. If you’re painting over dark colours, they can recommend a high-hide primer. If you’re painting a bathroom, they can point you toward a mildew-resistant paint that’s made for high-humidity areas.
They can also suggest tools and techniques to help your project go smoothly. For example, using the right roller nap for textured surfaces or the correct angled brush for trim work can make a big difference in your results. These are the kinds of tips that often don’t come from the label on the can.
Consider Paint Quality and Product Lines
If you're looking for Benjamin Moore paints, most reputable stores carry a wide selection of their product lines. Whether you're after a high-hiding wall paint for bold colour changes, a bathroom formula designed to resist moisture and mildew, or a finish built to resist scuffs in busy areas, the right product makes a difference.
Quality paint typically offers better coverage, longer wear, and more consistent colour results. While the upfront cost might be a bit higher, fewer coats and better durability can save money and effort over time.
Before You Pick Up That Brush
A good experience at paint supply stores starts with preparation. Knowing what type of paint you need, how much to buy, and what finish works best saves time and helps you avoid mistakes. Testing colours and leaning on expert guidance ensures your project gets off to a strong start. If you’re ready to begin, stop by Crowfoot Paint and Design. We’ll help you find exactly what you need for your next project.
