September 21, 2024 in Chicago
Curbless Shower: The Ultimate Bathroom Upgrade You Need Now
Curbless showers add a modern look and make bathrooms feel bigger. Reduce slip and fall dangers for those with limited mobility.
773.982.5500
Chicago Handyman Service, Bathroom Remodeling & Water Damage Restoration
Chicago Handyman Service, Bathroom Remodeling & Water Damage Restoration
Handyman Life
September 20, 2024 in Chicago
What Does a Handyman Charge to Paint a Room?
The cost to paint an Unfurnished small bedroom $450 includes drop cloths, sand walls, patch blemishes, one coat primer, caulking, and 2 coats of paint.
September 18, 2024 in Chicago
Benjamin Moore vs Sherwin Williams: A Comprehensive Comparison of Two Leading Paint Brands
When choosing paint for a home or project, two brands often come up: Benjamin Moore and Sherwin Williams. Both have a strong reputation and a variety of options. Benjamin Moore is known for its rich colors and high quality, while Sherwin Williams offers great coverage and a wide range of finishes.
The decision can depend on factors like budget, the specific project needs, and personal preferences for color or finish. Each brand has loyal fans who swear by their choice. Understanding the key differences can help homeowners make the best choice for their projects.
As the comparison continues, it’s helpful to explore specific products, pricing, and application tips. Knowing what each brand offers will lead to better decision-making and a more satisfying painting experience.
Brand Histories
The histories of Benjamin Moore and Sherwin Williams highlight their paths to becoming leaders in the paint industry. Both brands have unique stories that reflect their commitment to quality and innovation.
Benjamin Moore: A Legacy of Quality
Benjamin Moore was founded in 1883 by Benjamin Moore and his brother, Robert. Starting in a small oil dealership, they quickly moved into paint production.
The company grew steadily, establishing a reputation for high-quality products. In 1906, it introduced its first ready-mixed paint, revolutionizing the industry.
Today, Benjamin Moore offers a wide range of paint and coatings. Their focus on environmentally friendly options has expanded in recent years, meeting modern consumer demands.
The brand is known for its rich colors and durable finishes. Their commitment to excellence has earned them loyalty among professionals and DIY enthusiasts.
Sherwin Williams: Innovation and Expansion
Sherwin Williams was founded in 1866 by Henry Sherwin and Edward Williams. Originally a wholesale paint company, it quickly became known for its innovative products.
The company introduced its first ready-mixed paint in 1868, making it easier for consumers to use. This innovation set the stage for rapid growth.
Sherwin Williams has expanded through acquisitions over the years. It now owns several other paint and coating brands, broadening its product range and market reach.
The brand is recognized for its commitment to research and development. This focus ensures that they remain at the forefront of paint technology and trends in the industry.
Product Offerings
Both Benjamin Moore and Sherwin Williams offer a wide range of paint products. Each brand has unique lines that cater to different needs, making them popular choices for homeowners and professionals.
Benjamin Moore’s Paint Lines
Benjamin Moore provides several paint lines designed for various applications. Their most popular line is Regal Select, known for its durability and easy application. It is available in multiple finishes, including matte, eggshell, and satin.
Another key option is Aura, which offers excellent color retention and coverage. This line is ideal for those who want rich colors that last. Additionally, Ben paint is a more budget-friendly choice, suitable for interior walls and ceilings.
For outdoor projects, Benjamin Moore offers Exterior Paint, which withstands harsh weather conditions. Lastly, their Specialty Coatings include options for priming, stains, and even chalkboard paint.
Sherwin Williams’ Paint Collections
Sherwin Williams features a diverse range of paint collections. The Duration line stands out for its long-lasting finish and resistance to fading. This collection is popular among homeowners looking for durability in exterior applications.
Their SuperPaint line is another favorite, known for its good coverage and affordability. It works well in both interior and exterior projects.
For premium options, Emerald is a top-tier collection providing superior washability and a rich finish. Sherwin Williams also offers Harmony, which is eco-friendly and has low VOC levels, making it safer for indoor air quality.
Lastly, the All Surface Enamel is ideal for trim, doors, and specialty surfaces.
Performance and Quality
When choosing between Benjamin Moore and Sherwin Williams, performance and quality are key factors. Each brand has strengths that cater to different needs, whether it’s durability or color options.
Durability and Coverage
Benjamin Moore paints are known for their excellent durability. They often resist chipping, peeling, and fading, making them suitable for various surfaces. Their top products, like Regal Select, provide strong coverage with fewer coats needed.
Sherwin Williams also offers durable options. Their SuperPaint line provides great protection against wear and tear, especially in high-traffic areas. Both brands offer products suitable for exterior and interior applications.
In terms of coverage, Benjamin Moore tends to require fewer coats due to its thick consistency. Sherwin Williams paints cover well but may require a bit more product for the same results. Homeowners should test both to see which works best for their needs.
Color Accuracy and Palette
Benjamin Moore is praised for its color accuracy. It provides a vast palette of over 3,500 shades. The consistency of color between cans is impressive, reducing the risk of mismatched shades.
Sherwin Williams also boasts a wide range of colors, with thousands of options available. Their colors are vibrant and have a strong reputation for staying true over time. Both brands regularly update their palettes to reflect new trends.
When selecting paint, customers should consider sample testing. This helps in visualizing how colors look in different lights. Benjamin Moore and Sherwin Williams both ensure that users get the most accurate representation of their chosen hues.
Pricing and Availability
Both Benjamin Moore and Sherwin Williams offer a range of prices for their paint products.
Pricing Comparison:
| Brand | Price Range (per gallon) |
|---|---|
| Benjamin Moore | $40 – $75 |
| Sherwin Williams | $30 – $80 |
Benjamin Moore tends to be on the higher end, especially for premium lines. Sherwin Williams has competitive pricing and often runs promotions.
Availability:
Benjamin Moore paint is available at independent retailers and specialty stores. It may not be as widely found in big box stores.
Sherwin Williams has a larger network of stores. Their products are also available at select home improvement retailers.
Many customers find that local availability can influence their choice. It’s important to check nearby stores for stock of specific colors and finishes.
Both brands offer online shopping options, which can help with convenience and accessibility.
August 30, 2024 in Drywall
Plaster Vs Drywall: Dissecting the Differences – Key Factors for Wall Construction
With Chicago’s diversity extending even to its walls knowing the difference between Plaster vs Drywall is fundamental for any home owner.
Plaster has been used for centuries. It’s known for its durability and sound-proofing qualities. Drywall is a newer option. It’s easier to install and costs less.
The main difference between plaster and drywall is their composition and installation process. Plaster is a wet mixture applied in layers, while drywall comes in pre-made panels. This affects how they look, feel, and perform in your home.
Plaster vs Drywall – The basics
| Plaster | Drywall |
| Heavy material weight High skill/cost Install Durable Superior sound proofing | Light weight Moderate skill/cost install Easily damaged Easier to repair |
Fundamental Composition of Plaster and Drywall
Plaster and drywall are two distinct materials used for wall construction. They differ in their ingredients, application methods, and manufacturing processes.
Plaster: Ingredients and Application
Plaster is a mixture of lime, sand, and water. Some types also include gypsum. Builders apply plaster in layers to create smooth walls.
The first layer, called the scratch coat, is rough. It helps the next layers stick better. The second layer is the brown coat. It evens out the surface.
The final layer is the finish coat. It gives the wall its smooth look. Plaster can be tinted or painted once it dries.
Applying plaster takes skill. It’s a wet process that needs time to dry between coats. This can take several days to complete.
Drywall: Core Material and Manufacture
Drywall is made of gypsum pressed between two sheets of paper. The gypsum core contains additives that make it fire-resistant.
Factories produce drywall in large sheets. These sheets come in standard sizes, usually 4 feet wide and 8 to 12 feet long.
The paper on each side of the drywall serves different purposes. The front side is smooth for painting. The back side is rougher to help it stick to the wall.
Installing drywall is faster than plastering. Workers cut the sheets to fit and use drywall screws to secure them to wall studs. They then cover the seams with tape and joint compound.
Durability and Performance Comparison
Plaster and drywall differ in their longevity and ability to withstand wear and tear. Each material has unique strengths that impact its durability over time.
Longevity of Plaster
Plaster walls can last for decades with proper care. They resist cracks and dents better than drywall due to their harder surface. Plaster also provides superior soundproofing and insulation.
The thickness of plaster allows for deeper textures and design details. This makes it popular for historic restorations and high-end homes.
Plaster does have some drawbacks. It can be prone to water damage if exposed to moisture. Repairs are often costly and require specialized skills.
Drywall Resistance and Quality
Drywall is more vulnerable to dents and holes than plaster. Its paper surface can tear if hit with force. However, drywall is easier and cheaper to repair when damage occurs.
Modern drywall comes in moisture-resistant and fire-resistant varieties. These improve its durability in bathrooms and other high-risk areas.
Drywall installation is faster and less messy than plastering. This makes it the go-to choice for most new construction projects.
The quality of drywall can vary. Higher-grade products offer better soundproofing and impact resistance. Proper installation is key to maximizing drywall’s performance.
Installation and Labor Considerations
Plaster and drywall have different installation processes that affect time, skill, and cost. The choice between them depends on project needs and available resources.
Timeframe and Skill for Plaster
Plastering takes more time and skill than drywall installation. A professional plasterer needs several days to finish a room. The process involves multiple layers and drying time between coats.
Mixing plaster requires precision. Applying it evenly takes practice and expertise. Plasterers often train for years to master the craft.
The finish coat needs careful smoothing to achieve a flawless surface. This step can be time-consuming but results in a high-quality look.
Ease of Drywall Installation
Drywall installation is faster and simpler than plastering. A team can hang and finish drywall in a room within a day or two.
The process involves cutting panels to size, attaching them to studs, and taping seams. Joint compound covers the seams and screw holes.
Drywall doesn’t need special mixing skills. Many homeowners can handle basic drywall work themselves.
Sanding the dried joint compound creates a smooth surface. This step can be dusty but is less labor-intensive than plaster finishing.
Cost and Accessibility Differences
Plaster and drywall differ in their market availability and overall costs. These factors can impact a homeowner’s choice between the two materials for their walls and ceilings.
Market Availability of Plaster and Drywall
Drywall is widely available at most home improvement stores and building supply centers. It comes in standard sizes and thicknesses, making it easy to purchase and transport. Many contractors and DIY enthusiasts can find drywall materials quickly.
Plaster materials are less common in retail settings. Specialized suppliers often carry plaster products. Finding skilled plasterers can be challenging in some areas, as the trade is less prevalent than drywall installation.
Comparative Cost Analysis
Drywall is typically less expensive than plaster for both materials and labor. A square foot of installed drywall can cost $2 to $3, while plaster may range from $4 to $6 per square foot.
Plaster installation takes more time and skill, leading to higher labor costs. It often requires multiple coats and drying time between applications. Drywall goes up faster, reducing labor expenses.
Long-term maintenance costs can vary. Plaster tends to be more durable, potentially saving money on repairs over time. Drywall may need more frequent touch-ups or replacements in high-traffic areas.
Frequently Asked Questions
Plaster and drywall have key differences in cost, identification, installation, and modern usage. Let’s explore some common questions about these wall materials.
What are the key differences in cost between plaster and drywall?
Plaster typically costs more than drywall. The materials for plaster are pricier, and it takes longer to install. Skilled plasterers command higher wages too.
Drywall is cheaper to buy and quicker to put up. This makes it a more budget-friendly choice for many projects.
How can one tell if a wall is made of plaster or drywall?
Plaster walls feel harder and smoother when tapped. They often have slight curves or waves.
Drywall feels hollow when knocked on. It has visible seams every 4 feet where panels meet.
A small hole in plaster reveals multiple layers. Drywall shows paper backing and a gypsum core.
What considerations should be taken into account when hanging pictures on plaster versus drywall?
Plaster needs special anchors or screws. It’s brittle and can crack easily.
Drywall allows for regular picture hooks or nails for lighter items. Heavier objects need wall anchors.
Test the wall’s strength before hanging anything heavy on either surface.
How do plaster and drywall compare when it comes to ceiling installations?
Plaster ceilings are heavier but offer a smooth, seamless look. They’re great for custom designs and curves.
Drywall ceilings are lighter and faster to install. They work well for flat surfaces and can be textured.
Both need proper support to prevent sagging over time.
In what ways do plaster and drywall compounds differ from each other?
Plaster compound is made of lime, sand, and water. It hardens through a chemical reaction.
Drywall compound, or joint compound, is gypsum-based. It dries through evaporation.
Plaster is tougher and more durable. Drywall compound is easier to sand and shape.
Why is drywall more commonly used today in place of plaster?
Drywall is faster to install, which saves time and money. It’s also easier to repair and modify.
Fewer workers today have the skills needed for plastering. This makes drywall a more practical choice.
Drywall offers good fire resistance and insulation at a lower cost than plaster.