Living on the Central Coast of California, we at Peek Painting deal with a variety of weather conditions throughout the year. From the foggy mornings to the afternoon sun, choosing the right exterior paint for your SLO County home is crucial. Two of the most popular options we encounter are Sherwin-Williams Latitude and Benjamin Moore Element Guard. Both are high-quality paints, and homeowners often ask which one reigns supreme.The truth is, there's no single winner. Both Latitude and Element Guard boast excellent properties, and the best choice often boils down to specific project needs and homeowner preferences. Let's delve deeper into what the technical specifications ([TDS]) and contractor reviews tell us about these contenders.

‍Durability and FinishSherwin-Williams Latitude: According to the TDS, Latitude is an acrylic latex paint formulated for long-lasting performance. It boasts a 15-year crack and peel warranty and excellent resistance to fading and mildew. This makes it a great choice for areas exposed to harsh sunlight and coastal elements. Reviews from contractors praise its smooth application and ability to hide imperfections well, leaving a beautiful, uniform finish.

Benjamin Moore Element Guard: Element Guard's TDS highlights its 10-year warranty against cracking, peeling, and fading. Similarly, it offers superior mildew resistance and a 100% acrylic latex base, ideal for our coastal climate. Contractors commend its self-priming properties on certain surfaces and its ability to maintain a fresh look for extended periods.

Coverage and ApplicationSherwin-Williams Latitude: While the TDS doesn't specify exact coverage, reviews suggest Latitude offers good coverage in one or two coats, depending on the surface and existing color. Painters appreciate its splatter resistance and easy cleanup with soap and water.

Benjamin Moore Element Guard: Similar to Latitude, Element Guard's coverage varies based on surface and color. Reviews indicate it can achieve good coverage in two coats, and contractors find it brushes and rolls smoothly. It's also known for minimal dripping and a forgiving application process for DIY enthusiasts.

Color Selection and AvailabilitySherwin-Williams Latitude: Sherwin-Williams offers a wide range of colors for Latitude, including a vast selection of whites and neutrals perfect for the California aesthetic. Their extensive network of stores in SLO County ensures easy access and color matching assistance.

Benjamin Moore: Benjamin Moore is renowned for its exceptional color palette, and Element Guard reflects this strength. While they might have fewer stores compared to Sherwin-Williams, their reputation for unique and vibrant colors can be a deciding factor for some homeowners.

Cost and MaintenanceSherwin-Williams Latitude: Latitude falls into the mid-range price tier for premium exterior paints. The long-lasting performance translates to lower maintenance costs in the long run.

Benjamin Moore Element Guard: Element Guard typically sits at a slightly higher price point than Latitude. However, its self-priming capabilities on some surfaces can potentially offset some initial costs. Like Latitude, it offers good value for its extended lifespan.

The Final Brushstroke
‍Here's the key takeaway: both Sherwin-Williams Latitude and Benjamin Moore Element Guard are excellent exterior paint choices for SLO County homes. The final decision hinges on your specific priorities.

‍For budget-conscious homeowners prioritizing long lifespan and a vast color selection, Sherwin-Williams Latitude might be the ideal pick.For those seeking a slightly higher-end product with exceptional color options and self-priming capabilities, Benjamin Moore Element Guard could be the better fit.

‍Remember, consulting a professional painting contractor is always recommended. We can assess your specific project needs, surface condition, and desired aesthetics to guide you towards the best paint for your SLO County home. After all, a quality paint job not only enhances your home's curb appeal but also protects it from the elements for years to come. At Peek Painting we help homeowners and commercial painting clients decide on the best fit for their budget and needs.