Can all paint colors be matched?

If you google “can all paint companies match each other’s paint colors” you will see conflicting answers.  Benjamin Moore and Sherwin Williams share formulas so you would assume they can match all paint colors, right? Here is something youll see online:

“accuracy really depends on the model of spectrophotometer and the computer software that goes with it “

Before we try and answer this question, lets first look at why you are in this position.

• Have you hired a professional painter or will you be tackling this on your weekend?

• Do you have a paint manufacturer preference?

• How much wear and tear occurs to your wall surfaces?

• How much lighting do you get in this space?

The paint samples you apply to your wall are typically in a satin finish.  This means it will reflect more light and could show lighter than the small paint chip in the fan deck. Your sheen selection is a critical choice when comparing if your small paint chip matches the new gallon of paint.  Let’s look at each paint sheen:

Flat: Has little to no sheen so it may appear darker than your sample

Matte: Has a slight sheen to it and will

Satin: This will match your paint sample

Not only will your paint sheen matter, but which product you choose will also play a factor in how close your paint color matches.  You should ask your paint store if the paint color you chose comes in a high reflective, pastel, white, or extra white base.

There are four main paint stores you will find yourself buying from:

Benjamin Moore

Sherwin Williams

Lowes

Home Depot

Lauro Painting prefers Benjamin Moore or Sherwin Williams paint products.