Comparing Costs of Exterior Paint: Sherwin-Williams, Behr, and Rhino Shield

Roxanne Ecklund

When it comes to painting your home’s exterior, the initial cost isn’t the only thing to consider. Over time, repainting and maintenance can add up, making some choices more expensive than they seem. In this blog, we’ll break down the costs of three top-rated exterior paint options—Sherwin-Williams, Behr, and Rhino Shield—at the first purchase, 4-year, and 7-year marks. We’ll also explain why Rhino Shield is the smartest long-term investment for your home.

The Brands at a Glance

Before diving into costs, let’s look at what makes each brand unique:

  1. Sherwin-Williams Duration®

  • Durability: Lasts 4-7 years depending on weather conditions.
  • Initial Cost: $60-$80 per gallon; total cost for an average home is about $4,000.
  • Maintenance: Requires repainting every 4-7 years.

  1. Behr Premium Plus®

  • Durability: Lasts 3-5 years.
  • Initial Cost: $30-$40 per gallon; total cost for an average home is about $2,500.
  • Maintenance: Requires more frequent repainting, typically every 3-5 years.

  1. Rhino Shield Ceramic Coating

  • Durability: Lasts up to 25 years.
  • Initial Cost: Starts at $9,000 for an average home.
  • Maintenance: Virtually no repainting or touch-ups required during its lifespan.

Cost Comparison Over Time

Initial Purchase Costs

  • Sherwin-Williams: $4,000
  • Behr: $2,500
  • Rhino Shield: $9,000

At first glance, Rhino Shield seems more expensive, but its long-term durability changes the equation.

4-Year Mark

  • Sherwin-Williams: Requires repainting at a cost of another $4,000, bringing the total to $8,000.
  • Behr: Requires repainting after 3-5 years, adding another $2,500 for a total of $5,000.
  • Rhino Shield: No additional costs, keeping the total at $9,000.

7-Year Mark

  • Sherwin-Williams: Likely requires another repaint at 7 years, bringing the total to $12,000.
  • Behr: Another repaint is due, adding another $2,500, bringing the total to $7,500.
  • Rhino Shield: Still no repainting needed, keeping the total at $9,000.

Cost Summary Table

Time PeriodSherwin-WilliamsBehrRhino Shield
Initial Purchase$4,000$2,500$9,000
After 4 Years$8,000$5,000$9,000
After 7 Years$12,000$7,500$9,000

Why Rhino Shield is the Best Long-Term Investment

  1. Longevity

Rhino Shield’s ceramic coating lasts up to 25 years. That’s 3-5 times longer than traditional paints like Sherwin-Williams or Behr.

  1. Low Maintenance

Because it doesn’t crack, peel, or fade, Rhino Shield eliminates the need for frequent repainting, saving you time and money.

  1. Energy Efficiency

The ceramic technology in Rhino Shield reflects heat, reducing cooling costs in summer. Over time, this energy efficiency can offset its higher initial cost.

  1. Warranty

Rhino Shield comes with a 25-year transferable warranty, ensuring peace of mind and protecting your investment.

Who Should Choose Each Brand?

Sherwin-Williams

If you’re looking for a premium paint with a smooth finish and don’t mind repainting every 4-7 years, Sherwin-Williams is a solid choice. It’s especially popular for DIY projects and mild climates.

Learn more about Sherwin-Williams’ offerings on HGTV’s Exterior Paint Guide.

Behr

For budget-conscious homeowners, Behr offers decent durability and vibrant colors at an affordable price. It’s a great option for homes in moderate climates or if you’re okay with repainting more often.

For tips on choosing colors with Behr, check out Better Homes & Gardens’ Natural Paint Color Schemes.

Rhino Shield

Rhino Shield is perfect for homeowners who want the best long-term protection and don’t want to deal with frequent repainting. Its durability, energy efficiency, and warranty make it the top choice for any climate. Have a favorite color already picked out?…we can color match that color for Rhino Shield coating!

Discover bold design ideas that pair perfectly with Rhino Shield on The Spruce’s Bold Exterior Paint Colors.

Breaking Down the True Cost

While the upfront cost of Rhino Shield is higher, its longevity saves money in the long run. By the 7-year mark, the repeated costs of Sherwin-Williams and Behr add up to more than Rhino Shield’s initial price. Beyond costs, Rhino Shield offers unmatched durability, reducing stress and effort for homeowners.

Conclusion

When comparing the costs of Sherwin-Williams, Behr, and Rhino Shield, it’s clear that Rhino Shield offers the best value over time. While traditional paints like Sherwin-Williams and Behr are cheaper upfront, their frequent repainting costs make them more expensive in the long run. Rhino Shield’s ceramic coating not only saves money but also provides superior durability and protection, making it the clear winner for homeowners.

For a smart, long-lasting investment in your home, choose Rhino Shield and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with a 25-year warranty.

Contact Rhino Shield today to learn more about how this durable exterior coating can transform your home and protect it for decades to come!