Behr Premium Plus vs. Marquee: Which Paint Reigns Supreme?
Choosing the right paint can feel overwhelming, especially with so many options promising vibrant colors and lasting durability. Two popular contenders often top the list: Behr Premium Plus and Behr Marquee. Both are from a well-known brand and offer a range of features, but which one is truly the best choice for your next painting project?
This comparison dives deep into the world of Behr paints. We’ll explore the key differences between Behr Premium Plus and Marquee, examining factors like coverage, stain resistance, and overall value. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for making an informed decision that aligns with your specific needs and budget.
Whether you’re a seasoned DIY enthusiast or a first-time painter, this guide will provide you with the insights you need. We’ll break down the pros and cons of each paint, helping you determine which Behr product, Behr Premium Plus or Marquee, will deliver the best results for your home.
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | Behr Premium Plus | Marquee |
|---|---|---|
| Durability | Good | Excellent |
| Coverage | Up to 400 sq ft/gallon | Up to 400 sq ft/gallon |
| Washability | Good | Excellent |
| Stain Resistance | Good | Excellent |
| Mildew Resistance | Yes | Yes |
| Low VOC | Yes | Yes |
| Application | Interior/Exterior | Interior/Exterior |
| Number of Coats Recommended | 2 | 1-2 |
| Color Retention | Good | Excellent |
| Available Sheens | Wide Range | Wide Range |
| Primer Required | Often | Less Often |
| Ease of Application | Good | Excellent |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Durability & Washability
- Behr Premium Plus: Offers good durability and washability for its price point, suitable for moderate-traffic areas. It resists stains and can be cleaned, but may not withstand heavy scrubbing as well as higher-end paints.
- Marquee: Provides excellent durability and washability, making it ideal for high-traffic areas and homes with children or pets. It’s highly resistant to stains, scuffs, and fading, and can be easily cleaned.
- Winner: Marquee
Coverage & Hiding Power
- Behr Premium Plus: Generally offers good coverage, often requiring two coats for optimal results, especially when changing colors significantly. Its hiding power is decent but may struggle with covering dark colors with lighter ones.
- Marquee: Known for its exceptional coverage and hiding power, often achieving full coverage with just one coat, saving time and paint. It effectively covers existing colors, even dark ones.
- Winner: Marquee
Paint & Primer in One
- Behr Premium Plus: Some formulations include paint and primer in one, simplifying the painting process and potentially saving time. However, the primer may not always be as effective as a separate primer coat, especially on porous surfaces.
- Marquee: Offers paint and primer in one options, providing excellent adhesion and covering power. This feature contributes to its ease of application and reduced labor.
- Winner: Marquee
Price
- Behr Premium Plus: Typically more affordable than Marquee, making it a budget-friendly option for homeowners. While it offers good value, the lower price reflects some compromises in performance.
- Marquee: Priced higher than Premium Plus, reflecting its superior performance and features. The higher cost is justified by its enhanced durability, coverage, and washability.
- Winner: behr premium plus
Stain Resistance
- Behr Premium Plus: Offers decent stain resistance, protecting surfaces from common household stains. However, it may not be as effective against stubborn stains as Marquee.
- Marquee: Provides exceptional stain resistance, making it easier to clean up spills and marks. It’s designed to repel stains and maintain its appearance over time.
- Winner: Marquee
Color Retention
- Behr Premium Plus: Has good color retention, but may fade slightly over time, especially when exposed to direct sunlight.
- Marquee: Boasts superior color retention, maintaining its vibrant appearance for a longer duration. It’s formulated to resist fading and maintain its original color.
- Winner: Marquee
Application & Ease of Use
- Behr Premium Plus: Applies smoothly and is relatively easy to work with, suitable for both DIY painters and professionals. It may require more coats than Marquee to achieve desired results.
- Marquee: Designed for easy application, with excellent flow and leveling properties. Its superior coverage minimizes the need for multiple coats, simplifying the painting process.
- Winner: Marquee
Low VOCs
- Behr Premium Plus: Available in low-VOC (Volatile Organic Compounds) formulations, making it a more environmentally friendly choice and suitable for use in occupied spaces.
- Marquee: Also available in low-VOC formulations, ensuring a healthier indoor environment and reduced odor during application.
- Winner: Tie
Winner by Category
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Durability | Marquee |
| Stain Resistance | Marquee |
| Washability | Marquee |
| Color Retention | Marquee |
| Ease of Application | Marquee |
| Value | Behr Premium Plus |
What They Have in Common
- Low Voc: Both paints are formulated with low volatile organic compounds, making them a more environmentally friendly choice and reducing odors during application.
- Interior/exterior Use: Both Behr Premium Plus and Marquee are suitable for both interior and exterior applications, providing versatility for various painting projects.
- Mildew Resistance: Both paints offer mildew-resistant properties, helping to protect painted surfaces from mold and mildew growth.
- Washability: Both paints are designed to be washable, allowing for easy cleaning of surfaces without damaging the paint finish.
- Coverage: Both paints typically offer similar coverage per gallon, allowing for efficient painting and minimizing the amount of paint needed.
Behr Premium Plus vs Marquee Buying Guide
Durability and Longevity
Both Behr Premium Plus and Marquee paints are designed to offer good durability, but Marquee generally excels in this area. Marquee’s advanced formulation provides superior resistance to fading, cracking, and peeling, making it a better choice for high-traffic areas or exterior applications exposed to harsh weather conditions. Premium Plus still offers decent protection, but it may require more frequent touch-ups or repainting over time compared to Marquee. Consider the specific environment and the level of wear and tear your surfaces will endure when making your decision.
Coverage and Application
Coverage is a crucial factor, and Marquee often offers better coverage per gallon than Premium Plus. This means you may need fewer coats of Marquee to achieve a uniform and opaque finish, ultimately saving you time and potentially paint costs. Marquee’s thicker consistency contributes to its superior coverage, making it easier to hide imperfections on the surface. Premium Plus, while still providing good coverage, might require an extra coat or two, especially when covering darker colors with lighter shades.
Color Selection and Retention
Behr offers a vast color palette for both Premium Plus and Marquee, ensuring you’ll find the perfect shade for your project. However, Marquee is specifically formulated to deliver exceptional color retention, meaning the color will remain vibrant and true for longer periods. Premium Plus also offers good color retention, but Marquee’s technology provides enhanced resistance to fading, especially in direct sunlight. If color accuracy and longevity are paramount, particularly for exterior projects, Marquee is the superior choice.
Washability and Stain Resistance
Both paints are washable, but Marquee typically demonstrates better stain resistance and washability. Its advanced formula allows for easier cleaning of marks, spills, and dirt, making it ideal for high-use areas like kitchens, bathrooms, and hallways. Premium Plus is also washable, but it might require more effort to remove stubborn stains. Marquee’s superior washability reduces the need for frequent repainting and helps maintain a fresh, clean appearance over time, making it a practical choice for busy households.
Price and Value
Behr Premium Plus is generally more affordable than Marquee. This makes it a great option for budget-conscious projects or for areas where the highest level of performance isn’t critical. While Marquee costs more upfront, its superior durability, coverage, and color retention can provide better long-term value by extending the time between repainting projects. Consider your budget and the long-term cost savings when making your decision. If you prioritize initial cost, Premium Plus may be more attractive.
Environmental Considerations
Both Behr Premium Plus and Marquee are low-VOC (volatile organic compound) paints, meaning they release fewer harmful chemicals into the air, contributing to better indoor air quality. However, the exact VOC levels may vary slightly between the two products. Consider the environmental impact when choosing a paint. Look for certifications like GreenGuard to ensure the paint meets the highest standards for low emissions. Both paints offer environmentally friendly options, making them suitable for health-conscious consumers.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy Behr Premium Plus If…
- You’re on a budget and looking for a reliable paint option.
- You need a paint that offers good durability and washability for everyday use.
- You’re painting a surface that doesn’t require the highest level of stain resistance.
- You’re looking for a paint that is readily available at most home improvement stores.
Buy Marquee If…
- You want the best possible stain resistance and washability.
- You want superior color retention and fade resistance.
- You are willing to spend more for a premium paint.
- You want a paint that can often achieve full coverage in fewer coats.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Behr Premium Plus and Marquee?
Marquee is a premium paint line from Behr, offering superior durability, coverage, and color retention compared to Premium Plus. Marquee is designed for exceptional performance and longevity, including better resistance to fading, cracking, and stains. Premium Plus is a more budget-friendly option, still providing good performance for general painting needs. Marquee typically offers better washability and coverage.
Which paint is better for exterior use?
Marquee is generally a better choice for exterior applications. Its advanced formula provides enhanced protection against the elements, including UV rays, rain, and temperature fluctuations. This results in superior color retention and a longer-lasting finish. Premium Plus can be used outdoors, but it may require more frequent repainting compared to Marquee, particularly in harsh climates.
Is Marquee paint worth the extra cost?
Yes, Marquee often proves to be worth the extra cost, especially for high-traffic areas or projects where longevity is a priority. While it has a higher initial price, Marquee’s superior durability, coverage, and color retention can save you money in the long run by reducing the frequency of repainting. Consider the specific needs of your project and your budget when making your decision.
How many coats of paint are typically needed?
With Marquee, you may often need only one coat due to its superior coverage, especially when painting over similar colors. Premium Plus may require two coats, particularly when covering darker colors with lighter ones or when painting over imperfections. Always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations on the paint can for best results and optimal coverage.
Can I use either paint on wood surfaces?
Yes, both Behr Premium Plus and Marquee can be used on properly prepared wood surfaces. However, ensure the wood is clean, dry, and primed before painting. Marquee’s increased durability might be beneficial on wood surfaces exposed to more wear and tear, such as doors and trim. Always check the paint label for specific recommendations for wood applications.
Which paint offers the best stain resistance?
Marquee offers superior stain resistance compared to Premium Plus. Its advanced formula allows for easier cleaning of marks, spills, and dirt. This makes Marquee an excellent choice for areas prone to stains, such as kitchens, bathrooms, and hallways. Premium Plus is also washable, but it might require more effort to remove stubborn stains.
Are both paints low-VOC?
Yes, both Behr Premium Plus and Marquee are low-VOC (volatile organic compound) paints, which means they emit fewer harmful chemicals into the air. This improves indoor air quality. Always check the product label for the specific VOC levels. Both paints offer environmentally friendly options, making them suitable for health-conscious consumers and those with sensitivities.
Final Verdict
Behr Marquee consistently outperforms Behr Premium Plus in key areas such as durability, coverage, and color retention. While Premium Plus is a solid choice for budget-conscious projects, Marquee’s superior stain resistance and washability, coupled with its ability to withstand the elements, make it the preferred option for long-lasting results. The enhanced formula offers a better overall painting experience, providing a more resilient and visually appealing finish.
Winner: Marquee