Yes, Valspar produces a wide variety of latex paints for both interior and exterior use. Their product line includes 100% acrylic latex formulas, enamel latex, and specialized options for wood, concrete, and trim.
Valspar paint is typically an acrylic latex paint. The term "latex" describes the water-based nature of the paint, while "acrylic" refers to the specific type of plastic resin or binder used in the formula.
To determine if a wall or trim is painted with latex (water-based) paint, perform a simple cotton ball and rubbing alcohol test. If the paint transfers to the cotton, it is latex. If the surface remains unaffected and clean, it is oil-based.
Latex paint is a water-based, fast-drying, and breathable paint ideal for large indoor surfaces like walls. Enamel paint refers to a category of paint that dries to an exceptionally hard, durable, and smooth shell, making it perfect for high-traffic areas, trim, doors, and cabinets.
Sherwin-Williams is generally considered the superior, more durable paint brand, often favored by professionals for its longevity, smooth application, and high washability. Valspar is a great, budget-friendly alternative available at Lowe's that gives solid coverage, though it often requires more coats and may not hold up to heavy scrubbing as long.
For long-lasting durability and high-traffic areas, Sherwin-Williams or Benjamin Moore may be the best fit. For budget-conscious options, Behr and Valspar deliver reliable results. If you're in the Mid-Atlantic and value sustainability, McCormick Paints is an outstanding choice.
Professional painters primarily use Sherwin-Williams and Benjamin Moore. This preference is driven by high-quality, durable ingredients, exceptional coverage, and access to dedicated contractor stores and trade discounts.
Avoid using latex paint when painting bare metal (it promotes rust), over un-primed oil-based paint (it will peel), on porous masonry, or on surfaces constantly submerged in water. Additionally, never apply latex paint in extreme cold (below 50∘F50 raised to the composed with power cap F50∘𝐹), high humidity, or direct, intense sunlight.
The best overall choice for interior walls is acrylic latex paint (a water-based formula). It dries quickly, cleans easily with soap and water, emits low odors or VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds), and resists cracking.
Budget-friendly
When you need to cover a large amount of surface space such as interior walls, latex is a less expensive option than enamel.
Red is universally considered the hardest paint color to cover. Vibrant red pigments are highly transparent and inherently prone to bleeding through subsequent layers. Other notoriously difficult colors to cover include black, dark blue, dark green, and bright yellow.
No, not all paint is latex. Paints are primarily divided into water-based (often called latex or acrylic) and solvent-based (often called oil or alkyd) categories.
If you paint latex over oil-based paint without proper preparation, the paint will not adhere. Because water- and oil-based paints are chemically incompatible, the latex paint will eventually blister, crack, and peel off in large sheets.
Reviewers generally agree with all of this. Valspar gets 4.5 stars on 3,444 reviews at the Lowe's website, with 89% of users recommending the product and only 7% offing one-star reviews. The Valspar site offers similar results, with 4.5 stars on 3,330 ratings.
Valspar does not have a single new name. The Valspar Corporation was acquired by Sherwin-Williams.
Behr and Valspar are both highly capable, consumer-friendly paints, but Behr generally wins out for its durability, superior coverage, and thick, scuff-resistant formula. Valspar is favored for its smoother application and easier learning curve, but Behr offers better long-term value for busy households.
Compounds used in the formulation of some latex paint can cause it to be toxic to many aquatic organisms. Since most storm drains drain to streams, rivers, bays and the ocean, dumping excess latex paint into storm drains or rinsing painting equipment into the gutter or storm drain is prohibited.
The healthiest paints to use are natural, zero-VOC (Volatile Organic Compounds) paints. These are free from toxic solvents, biocides, and carcinogens, making them ideal for children's rooms, nurseries, and those with chemical sensitivities.
So what is the best choice between latex paint vs. acrylic? While latex paint dominates interior residential work with its easy application and quick dry times, acrylic's superior adhesion and flexibility make it the ideal choice for exterior surfaces.
Sherwin-Williams is generally considered the superior, more durable paint, while Valspar is the more budget-friendly option. Interestingly, both brands are owned by the same parent company (The Sherwin-Williams Company), but they cater to different markets, price points, and application needs.
Hiring a professional to paint a 12x12 room typically costs between $400 and $950 for labor and materials. This generally covers two coats of paint on the walls and standard surface preparation.
Houses that sell the fastest are typically painted in neutral, universally appealing colors. Buyers prefer these shades because they act as a "blank canvas," allowing them to easily envision their own furniture and personal touches in the space.
Sherwin Williams and Valspar paint products were rated on a scale from 0 to 100, with 100 being the highest score that could be attained. Sherwin Williams received a score of 92 and Valspar received a score of 86. Characteristics rated included application, price, and warranty or guarantee satisfaction.
It's expensive, but the finish is very good. Opacity is great, except in reds and blues, which are terrible. Many decorators I know have had problems with strong colours, which you wouldn't expect at this price point. I got to the bottom of the problem by talking directly to Valspar.
Neither store is universally "better"; the right choice depends on the specific product lines you prefer. Both retailers carry top-tier options, but they excel in different formulations.