What to Compare
For exterior Florida applications where UV fading and mildew are the primary concerns, SW Duration with a quality primer is the industry workhorse. For interior or color-critical projects, Benjamin Moore Aura is worth the premium.
Head-to-Head Breakdown
Sherwin-Williams
Features and considerations
- SW Duration: self-priming, mold/mildew resistant — ideal for FL humidity
- Emerald Rain Refresh uses beads to shed water on exterior siding
- SuperPaint and Duration widely used by FL painting contractors — easy to color-match
Limits and questions
- Color accuracy slightly less vivid than Benjamin Moore on interior walls
Benjamin Moore
Features and considerations
- Aura has exceptional color lock — doesn't fade in FL sun as quickly
- Gennex colorant technology produces deeper, truer color than competitors
- Mildew-resistant additives in Aura Exterior perform well in south FL
Limits and questions
- Available only through independently-owned BM dealers — fewer locations
- Less adopted by volume Florida painting contractors (harder to source on short notice)
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Sherwin-Williams | Benjamin Moore | |
|---|---|---|
| Best Exterior Line | Ask the Sherwin-Williams provider to document current quote and terms for the exact offer. | Ask the Benjamin Moore provider to document current quote and terms for the exact offer. |
| Retail Price (gallon) | Request an itemized quote for Sherwin-Williams; compare the same scope and payment period. | Request an itemized quote for Benjamin Moore; compare the same scope and payment period. |
| Mildew Resistance | Ask for evidence for the exact Sherwin-Williams product or local service; match it to your project conditions. | Ask for evidence for the exact Benjamin Moore product or local service; match it to your project conditions. |
| Color Depth | Ask the Sherwin-Williams provider to document color depth for the exact offer. | Ask the Benjamin Moore provider to document color depth for the exact offer. |
| FL Contractor Availability | Read the current Sherwin-Williams agreement for coverage, exclusions and cancellation terms. | Read the current Benjamin Moore agreement for coverage, exclusions and cancellation terms. |
| Fit for your project | Ask the Sherwin-Williams provider to document current quote and terms for the exact offer. | Ask the Benjamin Moore provider to document current quote and terms for the exact offer. |
Frequently Asked Questions
How often do you need to repaint a Florida home exterior?
Compare Sherwin-Williams and Benjamin Moore on retail price, mildew resistance, color depth, using the actual models or local proposals. Ask for supporting documentation and a written explanation of how the proposed option meets your needs.
Which paint brand resists mold and mildew best in Florida?
Sherwin-Williams Duration has the most established field record in Florida contractor use. Both Duration and Benjamin Moore Aura contain mildewcide additives.
What sheen should I use for a Florida exterior?
Satin or low-lustre finishes are the Florida standard for exterior walls — easier to clean than flat, less reflective than semi-gloss. Trim should be semi-gloss for durability.
Consumer resources
Use these official resources when evaluating an offer. They provide general guidance and do not establish a winner between these options.
- FTC: checking home-repair offers and written agreements — General consumer guidance; not evidence of either brand's price or performance.
Browse Florida Painting Listings
These public listings share the broad painting category. Inclusion does not confirm that a business supplies the products or specialist services discussed above. Ask about the exact work, credentials and current availability before requesting a quote.
Typical painting services: Interior painting, Exterior painting, Cabinet refinishing, +3 more
Paint Bros Orlando
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Ovation Painting, Inc.
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Old Crow Painting
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