Frequently Asked Questions

  • We offer different products for different needs:

    • Aura® top of the line paint for ultimate colour depth, fast drying, amazing coverage and durability

    • Regal® Select our top seller and mid grade paint for excellent coverage and versatility. Great for all rooms including kitchen, bathrooms and laundry room

    • Ben® our entry level paint for reliable performance at a great value.

    • Advance® for cabinets, trim, and doors hybrid (waterbase to oil finish; yellows overtime with off white colours; Satin, semi-gloss and high gloss finish available)

    • Cabinet Coat® for cabinets, trim, and doors waterbase (Satin finish only)

    We can help you choose the perfect product for your space.

  • Absolutely. Colour is our specialty. We offer thousands of curated colours, designer palettes, and colour tools. Many of our retailers also provide expert colour advice to help you feel confident in your choice.

  • Lighting, room size, and surrounding finishes all affect how colour looks. That’s why we always recommend testing a sample on your wall before committing! It’s the best way to see the true colour in your space.

  • In many cases, our paints are self-priming, but certain surfaces (like bare drywall, stains, or dramatic colour changes) benefit from a dedicated primer. Using the right primer ensures better adhesion and a more uniform finish.

  • Skipping primer can result in uneven coverage, poor adhesion, and additional coats. Primer improves durability and colour accuracy.

  • On average:

    • one quart covers about 100 square feet

    • one gallon covers about 400 square feet

    • one pail covers about 2000 square feet

      Coverage is based on a single coat. For best results, we always recommend applying two coats for durability.

    However, coverage can vary based on surface texture and colour choice. We can help you calculate exactly how much you’ll need so there’s no guesswork.

  • Definitely! Our Advance® waterborne alkyd paint (hybrid goes on like water base, dries into oil) is a favourite for cabinets, trim, and doors. It levels beautifully and cures to a hard, furniture-like finish, however off white colours may turn yellow over time. At our store we also carry Cabinet Coat by INSL-X that is full waterborne paint.

  • When applied correctly, our paints are designed to last for years. They resist fading, peeling, and wear so your space looks great long after the job is done.

  • Dry times vary by product and conditions, but most Benjamin Moore interior paints are dry to the touch in about 1 hour and ready for a second coat in 2 hours. Full cure time can take up to 30 days.

  • Store paint in a cool, dry place with the lid tightly sealed. Turn the can upside down briefly to create an airtight seal.

  • Most projects require two coats for the best colour depth, durability, and uniform finish. While some of our paints offer excellent coverage, a second coat ensures the colour looks its best and performs as designed.

  • Yes, but proper preparation is key. Using a primer helps block the dark colour underneath and allows the new colour to appear true and even.

  • The right finish depends on the space and how much durability you need:

    • Ultra flat - Dead flat finish for ceilings

    • Flat/Matte – Great for low-traffic areas (not washable)

    • Eggshell – Soft, washable finish for living rooms and bedrooms

    • Satin/Pearl – Durable and ideal for hallways, doors, trims, high traffic areas, cabinets, furniture and family rooms

    • Semi-Gloss – Best for trim, doors, kitchens, and bathrooms

    We’re happy to guide you based on your specific space.

  • Matte has very little sheen and hides imperfections well.
    Eggshell has a slight sheen and is more washable, making it better for everyday living areas

  • We recommend a durable, moisture-resistant with mold and mildew formula like Kitchen & Bath® (only pearl finish) or Aura Bath & Spa (only matte finish). An alternative option would be the Regal Select® which has some of the mildew formulation at a more reasonable price.

  • In most cases, yes. We can colour match samples from other brands or physical items. For the most accurate result, bring in a solid sample about the size of a toonie or larger.

  • Ideal painting conditions are between 10°C and 30°C with low humidity. Extreme temperatures can affect drying and adhesion.

  • If the surface is glossy or uneven, light sanding improves adhesion. For smooth, previously painted walls in good condition, minimal prep may be needed, a rough sand wont hurt.

  • Proper prep includes:

    • Cleaning the surface

    • Filling holes or cracks

    • Light sanding if needed (wipe and dust off)

    • Priming when required

    Preparation is key to a professional-looking finish.

  • Use a soft sponge with mild soap and water. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive scrubbers that could damage the finish.

  • Yes, but proper preparation is essential. The surface should be cleaned, lightly sanded, and primed with the appropriate bonding primer or oil primer to seal the walls before applying water-based paint.

  • High-quality synthetic brushes work best with water-based paints. For trim and detail work, angled brushes provide better control.

  • It depends on the surface:

    • 10mm nap – Smooth walls

    • 13mm nap – Light texture

    • 15mm nap or higher – Rough surfaces like stucco

    We carry the right tools to match your project.

  • Use consistent pressure, maintain a wet edge, and avoid overworking the paint. High-quality paint and tools also make a big difference.

  • It’s best to remove wallpaper whenever possible. Painting over it can lead to adhesion issues and visible seams.

  • Water-based paints:

    • Dry faster

    • Have low odour

    • Clean up with soap and water

    Oil-based paints:

    • Take longer to dry

    • Provide a harder finish

    • Require mineral spirits for cleanup

    Many modern waterborne alkyds (like Advance®) offer the best of both worlds.

  • New drywall must be primed first. A quality drywall primer seals the surface and prevents uneven absorption.

  • Peeling is usually caused by poor surface preparation, moisture issues, or painting over a glossy surface without sanding or priming.

  • Small cracks can be filled with spackling or caulking before painting. Larger cracks may need repair before applying paint to avoid uneven surface

  • It’s best to cut in around edges first, then roll the main wall area while the edges are still wet to blend seamlessly.

  • Stains should be sealed with a stain-blocking primer before painting to prevent bleed-through.

  • If the paint smells sour, is chunky, or won’t mix smoothly after stirring, it may no longer be usable.