From Family Handyman · Alex Shoemaker · · 1m
Paint Color Codes Go Viral But Don't Work Universally
Viral paint color codes help identify sheen types but fail across brands.
In brief
Viral paint color codes help identify sheen types but fail across brands. Do it Best paint cans use color bands to indicate sheen and interior/exterior use, but these codes don't apply to all brands. Originally reported by Family Handyman.
Viral Paint Color Code
A T&M Hardware & Rental video showed colored sections on Do it Best paint cans to help shoppers identify sheen types quickly.
Color Code Meaning
Red identifies flat paint, yellow eggshell, blue satin, green semi-gloss, white band for interior paint, black band for exterior paint.
Color Codes Don't Work Universally
Paint brands use different packaging systems, so a colored band on one brand may mean something different on another.
Sheen Types Explained
Flat paint has very little shine and hides small wall flaws, eggshell has slight sheen, satin reflects more light, semi-gloss is shinier and works well on trim.
Why Check Labels
Shoppers should still check the printed sheen and confirm whether paint is for interior or exterior use before purchasing.
The bottom line
Do it Best paint cans use color bands to indicate sheen and interior/exterior use, but these codes don't apply to all brands.
