No U.S. state has a blanket ban on the physical act of painting with or possessing oil-based paints. However, strict environmental regulations on Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) have created a "soft ban" that heavily restricts the sale of traditional, high-VOC oil-based paints (often sold in gallon sizes) across 16 states and Washington, D.C.
Yes, Sherwin-Williams still sells oil-based (alkyd) paints and primers, though availability depends heavily on your local area due to strict VOC (Volatile Organic Compound) regulations.
After some 300 years of use, most oil-based paints are beginning to be phased out. Since 2004 in six states, the EPA has banned Oil Based Paints. They include: New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Virginia, Maryland, and the District of Columbia.
Both! Benjamin Moore offers paint in several formulas, including: Latex or acrylic—water-based paint. Alkyd—oil-based paint.
Yes, you can still buy oil-based (alkyd) paint. However, availability is increasingly restricted due to VOC (Volatile Organic Compound) regulations. Many manufacturers offer these paints in smaller container sizes (like quarts) or alternative "waterborne alkyd" formulas to comply with environmental laws.
As Moon mentioned, water-based paints have improved greatly and are much more durable, so the need for oil-based paint is virtually nonexistent. Because water-based is now the industry standard, there's a much wider range of products and colors.
Yes, Lowe’s sells oil-based paint. They carry a variety of oil-based and alkyd formulas for both interior and exterior use, including heavy-duty industrial enamels, metal primers, and wood stains.
The best oil paint brands depend on your budget and experience level. Premium brands like Michael Harding and Williamsburg offer exceptionally high pigment loads and buttery textures. For high-quality, widely available artist-grade paints, Gamblin and Winsor & Newton are industry favorites.
Both Benjamin Moore and Sherwin-Williams are top-tier, premium paint brands, but neither is universally "better." Benjamin Moore generally wins for color depth, richness, and a smoother finish, while Sherwin-Williams excels in overall durability, application ease, and budget-friendly accessibility.
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.
The healthiest paints for interior walls are natural mineral-based (clay or lime) or plant-based formulas. These eliminate synthetic plastics, toxic off-gassing, and Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs).
Yes, in the same way diesel cars are being phased out and we're being pushed towards electric. Legislation is getting tighter around oil-based paint, which is pushing manufacturers to develop viable water-based alternatives.
Oil-based paint is generally not toxic once it is completely cured. While high levels of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) and petroleum fumes are emitted during the drying process, these chemicals steadily drop to safe, negligible levels once the paint is fully hardened.
Yes, certain paint lines at Lowe’s—such as the HGTV Home by Sherwin-Williams and Valspar brands—are manufactured by The Sherwin-Williams Company. However, they are formulated differently and are not the exact same products you buy at dedicated Sherwin-Williams retail stores.
Yes, Hobby Lobby carries a wide variety of oil paints in both individual tubes and beginner sets. Their inventory features their in-house "Master's Touch" and "The Fine Touch" brands alongside professional lines like Winsor & Newton and Gamblin.
The Sherwin-Williams Company is the largest paint and coatings manufacturer in the United States and the world, generating over $23 billion in annual revenue.
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.
Many contractors are impressed by the fact that Sherwin-Williams has more than 140 years of experience behind them, which means they've had a long time to perfect what they do. And they've done it well, as they are among the most trusted suppliers of quality paints in the industry.
A gallon of Sherwin-Williams paint generally costs between $40 and $140, depending on the specific product line, finish, and any sales or contractor discounts.
Professional-grade oil paints feature high pigment loads, superior lightfastness, and no artificial fillers. Top-tier brands favored by professional artists include Michael Harding, Old Holland, Williamsburg, Gamblin, and Winsor & Newton.
The top-rated paint brands for residential interiors and exteriors are Benjamin Moore, Sherwin-Williams, Behr, PPG, and Valspar. These industry leaders are widely favored by both professionals and DIYers for their durability, superior coverage, scuff resistance, and color accuracy.
Yes, people still use oil-based paint, though it is much less common than it used to be. While DIYers and professionals heavily favor water-based latex or acrylic paints, oil-based paints remain popular for high-wear, high-moisture areas and certain restoration projects.
Choosing between Lowe’s and Home Depot paint largely comes down to your preferred brand and the specific formulation you need. Lowe’s is the home of Valspar and lines by Sherwin-Williams, while Home Depot is the exclusive retailer for Behr and Glidden.
Light, neutral, and cool-toned colors are the best choices for making a house look bigger, as they reflect more light and make walls feel farther apart. Top choices include crisp white, light gray, beige, soft blues, and pastels like lavender, which create an airy, open feel.
Based on 2026 data, the best place to buy paint depends on whether you prioritize variety, premium quality, or expert service. Top options include major retailers like The Home Depot for selection (notably Behr), Sherwin-Williams for professional-grade paint and color expertise, and Ace Hardware for high-end brands like Benjamin Moore.