Is Dunn Edwards Good Paint Compared to Other Brands?

I’ve tested dozens of paint brands over the years, and people always ask me about Dunn Edwards. 

Is it worth the money? How does it compare to brands you see everywhere?

This guide covers everything you need to know about Dunn Edwards paint quality. You’ll learn about its durability, coverage, and performance in different climates. 

I’ll compare it directly to Sherwin-Williams, Benjamin Moore, and BEHR so you can make the right choice.

I’ve seen this paint hold up in blazing heat and coastal conditions. We’ll look at what makes it different, where it excels, and when you might want to choose something else. 

By the end, you’ll know if Dunn Edwards fits your project and budget.

Let’s get started.

About Dunn Edwards Paint

Dunn Edwards is a regional paint manufacturer based in the Southwest. The company has been around since 1925.

They focus on high-performance coatings for hot, dry climates. You’ll find their stores mainly in California, Arizona, Nevada, and neighboring states. 

They cater to both professionals and homeowners who want quality that lasts.

Key Features of Dunn Edwards Paint

What makes this paint stand out from the competition? Let’s look at the core features.

Durability and Coverage

The paint is thick and well-formulated. It covers surfaces in fewer coats than many competitors. I’ve used it on stucco and drywall with great results. 

The coverage saves time and money on large projects. These paints hold up well against wear and weather.

Color Retention and Fade Resistance

Dunn Edwards formulas resist UV damage better than most. This matters if you live somewhere sunny. 

Colors stay true for years without fading or chalking. They offer hundreds of exterior-safe colors. The paint won’t turn dull after one summer.

Environmental Considerations

Their products have low VOC levels across most lines. The main manufacturing plant earned LEED Gold certification. 

This shows commitment to sustainable production. You can paint indoors without harsh fumes. It’s better for your family and the environment.

Customer and Professional Feedback

Contractors I know prefer Dunn Edwards for reliability. Reviews on Yelp and Houzz praise the knowledgeable staff. 

Store employees actually understand the products they sell. The warranty backs up quality claims. Professional painters trust it for client projects.

How Dunn Edwards Compares to Other Brands

Choosing paint means comparing options. Here’s how Dunn Edwards stacks up against the competition.

Dunn Edwards vs. Sherwin-Williams

National reach versus regional expertise. Both serve professionals with premium products and similar pricing structures.

Sherwin-Williams has more stores nationwide. Dunn Edwards dominates the Southwest. DE performs better on stucco in hot climates. SW excels with Emerald and Duration interiors. Both cost more than big-box brands but deliver superior coverage.

Dunn Edwards vs. Benjamin Moore

Two premium brands with different design approaches. Both excel in quality but cater to distinct regional needs and color preferences.

Benjamin Moore offers rich colors and smooth finishes. BM has boutique color options. DE focuses on fade-resistant shades for harsh sun. Both maintain low VOC levels. Benjamin Moore leads the East Coast. Dunn Edwards dominates the West.

Dunn Edwards vs. BEHR

Professional performance versus budget convenience. Lower upfront cost doesn’t always mean better value when you factor in longevity.

BEHR costs less at Home Depot. The quality gap shows over time. I’ve repainted BEHR jobs after three years. DE lasts five to seven years. BEHR suits low-traffic interiors. Dunn Edwards wins for exteriors and high-traffic areas.

Quick Comparison Table

Compare Dunn Edwards, Sherwin-Williams, Benjamin Moore, and BEHR on price, coverage, and performance.

Pros and Cons of Dunn Edwards Paint

Every paint brand has strengths and weaknesses. Here’s what you need to know before buying.

Pros

• Professional-grade quality that contractors rely on. The coverage reduces labor time and material waste. It performs consistently across different surfaces.
• Excels on exterior stucco in dry, hot climates. UV resistance keeps colors looking fresh for years without fading or chalking.
• Environmentally responsible production methods with low-VOC formulas. Their LEED-certified plant shows commitment to sustainable manufacturing practices.
• Warranties back up quality claims. Store staff know their products well and help you choose the right paint for your project.

Cons

• Higher price than big-box brands. You’ll pay $50-70 per gallon for premium lines. The cost adds up quickly on large projects.
• Regional availability limits access outside the Southwest. You won’t find stores in most of the country. This makes color matching difficult if you move.
• Customer service varies by location. Some stores have knowledgeable staff while others don’t. You need to find a good local store.
• Returns and exchanges can be inconsistent. Policies differ between locations. This creates frustration when you need to return unused paint or fix color issues.

Best Dunn Edwards Products for Home Projects

Not all paint lines work for every job. Here are the top performers I recommend.

Best Interior Paints

Spartawall handles heavy traffic without showing marks. I use it in hallways and kids’ rooms. It cleans easily without losing sheen.

Suprema offers excellent hide and smooth application. Low VOC means you can move back in quickly. Both resist scrubbing and daily wear.

Best Exterior Paints

Spartashield protects against intense sun and heat. The formula flexes with temperature changes. It bonds well to stucco and masonry.

Elastomeric coatings fill hairline cracks while they protect. These work great on older stucco homes. UV resistance keeps them from breaking down. They last seven years or more in desert conditions.

Tips for Choosing the Right Paint Brand

The right paint depends on more than just color. Consider these factors before you buy.

• Match the paint to your climate. Hot, sunny areas need UV-resistant formulas. Coastal regions require mold and moisture protection.
• Consider your surface type. Stucco, wood, and drywall all need different paint properties. Read product specifications carefully.
• Calculate long-term costs. Cheap paint that needs recoating in three years costs more than quality paint lasting seven years.
• Check local availability. You want easy access for color matching and additional supplies. Regional brands serve local needs better.
• Read actual user reviews. Look beyond marketing claims. Talk to painters who use the product daily. Their experience tells the real story.

Conclusion

I’ve watched Dunn Edwards paint hold up on my own home for six years now. The color still looks fresh despite the brutal summer sun.

You now know how it compares to other brands and where it shines. The higher cost makes sense if you live in hot climates or paint stucco. 

For interiors, their low-VOC lines perform as well as any premium brand.Choose based on your specific needs and location. 

A good paint job depends on the right product for your situation. 

Drop a comment below about your painting projects or questions about specific products.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Dunn Edwards paint better than Sherwin-Williams?

Both offer professional quality. Dunn Edwards performs better in hot, dry climates and on stucco. Sherwin-Williams has wider availability and excellent interior lines. Choose based on your location and project needs.

How much does Dunn Edwards paint cost per gallon?

Premium lines run $50-70 per gallon. Mid-range products cost $40-50. The price reflects professional-grade quality. Coverage is excellent, so you often need fewer coats than cheaper brands.

Where can I buy Dunn Edwards paint?

Dunn Edwards operates stores across the Southwest. You’ll find them in California, Arizona, Nevada, New Mexico, and neighboring states. They don’t sell through big-box retailers. Check their website for store locations.

Does Dunn Edwards make low-VOC paint?

Yes, most of their product lines have low VOC formulations. Their Suprema and Spartawall lines work well for people sensitive to fumes. The LEED-certified plant shows commitment to environmental standards.

How long does Dunn Edwards exterior paint last?

Their premium exterior paints last 5-7 years in harsh climates. Elastomeric coatings can go even longer. Proper surface prep extends longevity. The UV-resistant formulas prevent fading and chalking better than budget brands.