After spending countless weekends testing different paint brands across multiple home renovation projects.
I’ve learned that choosing between Glidden and Behr isn’t just about picking a color it’s about understanding what matters most for your specific needs.
These two household names consistently spark heated discussions among DIY enthusiasts and professional painters alike, and for good reason.
The decision often comes down to five critical factors that can make or break your painting project: coverage quality, long-term durability, cost considerations, VOC levels for indoor air quality, and how easily you can find the product when you need touch-ups.
After years of comparing results, dealing with frustrated clients, and seeing which brands stand the test of time, I’m here to share what matters when making this choice.
Glidden vs Behr: Quick Comparison Table
Before we get into the details, here’s what I’ve found after testing both brands across dozens of projects. This breakdown covers the main areas where these paints differ. Think of it as your cheat sheet for making a quick decision.
| Factor | Glidden | Behr |
| Coverage | Good one-coat coverage on light colors may need two coats for dramatic color changes | Excellent one-coat coverage across most color ranges |
| Durability | Solid performance for 5-7 years in high-traffic areas | Superior longevity, often lasting 8-10 years with proper prep |
| VOC Levels | Standard formulas have moderate VOCs low-VOC options available | Lower VOC content across most product lines |
| Price Range | $25-35 per gallon for premium lines | $35-45 per gallon for comparable quality |
| Availability | Walmart, Lowe’s, and select retailers | Home Depot exclusive, plus independent dealers |
The numbers tell part of the story, but your specific situation (room type, budget constraints, and color preferences) will determine which brand makes more sense for your project.
Brand Background
Glidden Paint: Affordable & Reliable
Glidden started in 1875. Nearly 150 years of paint-making. Their promise is simple. Good quality without the high price. You’ll find Glidden at Walmart and Lowe’s.
They focus on budget-friendly options that still work well. What homeowners like: smooth application and decent coverage for most projects.
Behr Paint: Premium & Durable
Behr launched in 1947. They position themselves as the premium choice. Only sold at Home Depot. This exclusive deal helps them control their brand image. Two main strengths: exceptional durability and reliable one-coat coverage.
Contractors choose Behr for clients who want long-lasting results. Higher price reflects their focus on quality over savings.
Coverage & Application
Here’s what impressed me most about Behr. One coat means one coat. I tested this on a bright red accent wall. Behr covered evenly in a single pass. High-traffic areas like kids’ playrooms and hallways benefit from this strength.
Bold colors are where Behr shines. Deep blues, rich reds, dark grays apply smoothly with just one application. Time matters on big projects. Behr cuts your painting time nearly in half.
Glidden takes a different approach. The paint flows beautifully off the brush. Most homeowners find it forgiving to work with. Here’s the trade-off. Darker colors need two or three coats for full coverage.
Beginners love this gradual building process. Each coat improves the look. Less pressure to get it perfect on the first try. Light colors work great with just one coat.
Durability & Finish Quality
Here’s where Behr proves its worth. I’ve watched it handle Michigan’s brutal freeze-thaw cycles without cracking or peeling.
High humidity doesn’t phase it either. Kids’ sticky fingerprints wipe away easily. Coffee stains disappear with a damp cloth.
Even direct sunlight won’t fade the color after years of exposure. Heavy foot traffic areas still look fresh after a decade.
Glidden delivers solid everyday durability. Perfect for bedrooms, dining rooms, and guest bathrooms. Areas that don’t see constant abuse.
The finish holds up well to normal cleaning and light scuffs. Smart choice for renters or homeowners who like updating their colors regularly.
Price Comparison
Glidden: Budget-Friendly Paint
Glidden keeps things simple with budget-friendly pricing. You’ll pay $15-$60 per gallon depending on the line you choose. Large projects benefit from this approach. Painting an entire house?
Those savings add up fast. Three bedrooms, a living room, and hallways could cost $200 less with Glidden. Perfect for rental properties or starter homes where every dollar matters.
Behr: Premium Investment
Behr asks for more up front. $60-$100 per gallon feels steep at first glance. Here’s the math that changes everything. One coat of Behr versus three coats of cheaper paint.
You use less product. Time saved means money saved if you’re hiring painters. The finish lasts longer, too. Five years from now, Behr walls still look fresh while budget options show wear.
Best Paint for Michigan Homes
Interior Use
Michigan homes face unique challenges indoors. High humidity from lake effect weather. Heavy foot traffic during the long winter months. Behr handles these conditions best in demanding spaces. Kitchens with cooking moisture and grease.
Bathrooms with steam and condensation. Living areas where kids play and guests gather. Glidden works perfectly in calmer spaces.
Bedrooms that see gentle use. Rental properties where budget matters more than longevity.
Exterior Use
Michigan’s weather tests every paint formula. Brutal winters with ice and snow. Hot summers with intense UV rays.
Behr’s weatherproof exterior formulas handle this punishment. I’ve seen 10-year-old Behr jobs that still look fresh.
Glidden offers a cost-effective alternative for protected areas. North-facing walls that avoid direct sun. Areas where extreme weather protection isn’t critical, but decent coverage matters.
Pros & Cons at a Glance
Behr Pros & Cons
What works: Behr covers better than most paints on the market. One coat means one coat for bold colors. The durability lasts years longer than budget options. Fewer coats save time on big projects. Professional contractors trust it for demanding jobs.
What doesn’t: The higher price stings upfront. Limited to Home Depot stores only. No shopping around for better deals. Small towns without Home Depot face shipping costs or long drives.
Glidden Pros & Cons
What works: Budget-friendly pricing fits tight project budgets. Available at Walmart, Lowe’s, and local stores. Easy to find when you need touch-ups.
Low VOC formulas work well for sensitive households. Smooth application forgives beginner mistakes.
What doesn’t: Dark colors need multiple coats for even coverage. Exterior formulas don’t handle harsh weather as well.
Shows wear faster in high-traffic areas. More frequent repainting means higher long-term costs.
Final Thoughts
After testing both brands across dozens of Michigan homes, here’s my honest take: there’s no universal winner.
Behr claims victory when you need premium quality and long-lasting durability. Those extra dollars pay off in high-traffic areas and harsh weather conditions.
Glidden wins the budget battle while still providing solid results for most interior projects.
Your choice comes down to three factors: available budget, project scope, and how long you expect the finish to last. Large homes benefit from Glidden’s affordability. Investment properties need Behr’s staying power.
Still unsure about application techniques or color selection? Professional painters handle the tricky decisions and guarantee quality results.
Contact Tribble Painting Company for expert paint application that maximizes your investment in Michigan homes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Behr paint worth the extra cost compared to Glidden?
Behr costs more upfront but often requires fewer coats and lasts longer. For high-traffic areas and exteriors, the extra durability justifies the higher price.
Can I find Glidden paint at Home Depot?
No, Glidden is not sold at Home Depot due to Behr’s exclusive partnership. You can find Glidden at Walmart, Lowe’s, and many independent retailers.
Which paint covers better in one coat?
Behr consistently provides better one-coat coverage, especially for bold and dark colors. Glidden typically needs two or more coats for even coverage on dramatic color changes.
How do these paints handle Michigan’s harsh winters?
Behr’s exterior formulas resist cracking and peeling through freeze-thaw cycles better than Glidden’s. Both work fine for interiors, but Behr excels in extreme weather conditions.
Which paint is better for beginners?
Glidden flows more smoothly and forgives application mistakes better than Behr. The gradual building process with multiple coats gives beginners more control over the final result.
