Benjamin Moore. The name alone evokes a sense of quality, of craftsmanship. But when it comes to exterior paints, that reputation doesn’t just rest on brand recognition—it’s built on innovation, durability, and the subtle art of protecting your home while making it look stunning. Exterior paint is not just a cosmetic upgrade; it’s a shield, a barrier between your home and the unforgiving elements. So, how does Benjamin Moore paint stack up? Let’s dive into the complex world of exterior paints.
The Challenge of Exterior Painting
Painting a home’s exterior is no small feat. The stakes are high. You’re battling the sun, rain, snow, salt air, and time itself. UV rays beat down relentlessly, fading colors, while moisture lurks in every crevice, waiting to peel paint away. Not to mention the freeze-thaw cycles of northern climates or the scorching heat of the south. Benjamin Moore doesn’t just make paint; they engineer it to survive this onslaught of conditions.
Aura Exterior Paint: The Titan of Durability
Let’s start with Aura Exterior Paint, Benjamin Moore’s flagship line. If you’re looking for something that can withstand the test of time and the elements, Aura is like the battleship of exterior paints. Formulated with Advanced Resin Technology, it offers superior adhesion and flexibility. This means the paint expands and contracts with temperature fluctuations, rather than cracking or peeling like lesser products.
The color retention? Stunning. Aura locks in its color, even in areas with intense sunlight. Fading? Not a chance. Its high-build formula provides rich, deep colors in fewer coats, giving your home a bold, vibrant look without constant touch-ups. And the coverage is unparalleled. One or two coats, depending on the surface, and you’re set. No need for that third or fourth coat that often feels like overkill with other brands.
Oh, and did we mention it’s mildew resistant? Moisture is the enemy of paint, but Aura stands firm. Rain, humidity, morning dew—it’s all handled. This paint isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about longevity.
Regal Select Exterior: Balance of Beauty and Toughness
Not quite ready for the high price tag of Aura? Regal Select Exterior is your next best bet. Still a Benjamin Moore standout, it strikes the perfect balance between performance and affordability. It features a 100% acrylic formula, which gives you fantastic protection against weathering and fading.
The standout feature here is its low-temperature application. You can paint in temperatures as low as 35°F, making those early spring or late fall touch-ups a reality. Regal Select also boasts great coverage, with a finish that resists blistering and peeling. So, whether you’re up against New Jersey winters or Arizona summers, Regal Select gives you durability without the hefty price tag of premium paints.
And the finish? You get a variety—flat, low-luster, satin, or semi-gloss. You can choose what best complements your home’s exterior style while still getting Benjamin Moore’s legendary longevity.
ben® Exterior Paint: Affordable Quality
For those seeking a more budget-friendly option without compromising on quality, there’s ben® Exterior Paint. It’s Benjamin Moore’s entry-level option, but don’t let the lower price fool you—it’s still packed with performance. ben® exterior has that same 100% acrylic latex formula that resists mildew and fading.
What really sets ben® apart is the ease of application. It’s forgiving, flows smoothly, and provides excellent coverage even for DIY painters who may not have the most steady of hands. Its drying time is fast, meaning less waiting and more productivity.
However, the finish selection is a bit more limited compared to the premium lines, but that’s to be expected. ben® exterior is the ideal option for those who want reliability at a lower cost, while still receiving the signature Benjamin Moore quality.
What Makes Benjamin Moore Stand Out?
It’s not just the technical aspects—though those are impressive—it’s the depth and richness of color that Benjamin Moore brings to the table. Their Gennex® Color Technology ensures that their pigments are vivid, fade-resistant, and consistent, regardless of which product line you choose. You won’t be dealing with the frustration of dull colors after a few seasons of exposure to sunlight.
Let’s talk about the range. From classic whites like Swiss Coffee to bold, modern choices like Hale Navy, Benjamin Moore’s color selection for exteriors is unmatched. Whether you’re painting a beach house, a mountain retreat, or a classic suburban home, there’s a color that will perfectly reflect your vision.
Application: Smooth Sailing or Rough Waters?
Another reason Benjamin Moore reigns supreme is how the paint handles during application. Their formulations are crafted not just for durability but for ease of use. Paint shouldn’t feel like a chore, right? With Benjamin Moore, you’ll find even the heaviest-duty paints glide smoothly. The thicker formulas in their premium lines provide better coverage in fewer strokes, meaning you won’t be rolling over the same spot again and again.
Aura, Regal, and ben® each have different viscosities, but they’re all designed to reduce drips, minimize streaks, and provide an even finish. The drying time is consistent, allowing for swift recoats if necessary, and they don’t leave you with that tacky, sticky feeling even in humid conditions.
Which Finish Should You Choose?
With Benjamin Moore, you get an array of finishes to match the look and functionality you need. A flat finish is perfect for historic homes or those looking for a more subdued, classic appearance. Flat finishes absorb light, hiding surface imperfections, but they aren’t as resistant to wear and tear.
If durability is more your concern, opt for low-luster or satin. These finishes provide a slight sheen while being easier to clean and more resistant to weathering. For trim or high-traffic areas like doors and shutters, a semi-gloss finish is ideal. It’s tough, moisture-resistant, and adds that extra pop of visual interest.