A100 vs Super Paint: The Best Proven Winner
For most homeowners, SuperPaint is the clear winner over A-100. It offers superior durability, better weather resistance, and longer-lasting color, providing far greater long-term value. While A-100 is a good budget option for contractors on new construction or short-term projects, SuperPaint is the proven choice for a beautiful finish that protects your home for years.
Hello there! I’m Md Meraj, and I’ve spent more years than I can count with a paintbrush in my hand, helping folks just like you bring their home projects to life. Stepping into a paint store can feel overwhelming. You see walls of paint cans, and two of the most common you’ll hear about from Sherwin-Williams are A-100 and SuperPaint. Which one is right for you? It’s a question I get all the time.
Don’t worry. Choosing the right paint is simpler than it looks once you understand the key differences. It’s not about which paint is “good” or “bad,” but about which paint is perfect for your specific job. We’re going to break it down together, step by step, so you can walk into that store with confidence and walk out with the perfect can for your project. Let’s get started.
Understanding the Contenders: A-100 and SuperPaint
Before we put them head-to-head, let’s get to know our two paints. Think of them as two different tools in your workshop, each designed for a slightly different job.
What is Sherwin-Williams A-100 Exterior Acrylic Latex?
Sherwin-Williams A-100 is what many in the trade call a reliable “workhorse” paint. It’s a contractor-grade exterior paint that has been around for a long time. Its main purpose is to provide a solid, dependable coating at a very budget-friendly price point. It’s designed to adhere well to a variety of surfaces and deliver a uniform finish, making it a popular choice for large projects where cost is a major factor.
You’ll often see A-100 used on new construction projects, apartment complexes, or rental properties. Why? Because it gets the job done efficiently and affordably. It offers good performance, but it isn’t formulated with the advanced, long-lasting resins you’ll find in more premium paints.
A-100 is Best For:
- New residential or commercial construction.
- Budget-conscious projects or flips.
- Rental properties where frequent repainting is expected.
- Sheds, fences, or detached garages where top-tier durability isn’t the primary goal.
What is Sherwin-Williams SuperPaint Exterior Acrylic Latex?
SuperPaint is a step-up paint designed with the homeowner in mind. It’s one of Sherwin-Williams’ most popular and trusted products for a reason. SuperPaint is formulated for superior durability and long-term performance. Think of it as an investment in your home’s protection and appearance.
Its advanced acrylic formula provides excellent adhesion, resistance to fading, and protection against the elements—from harsh UV rays to rain and mildew. SuperPaint is also known for its “paint and primer in one” quality, which means it covers old paint exceptionally well and can often save you the step of priming first. This makes it a fantastic choice for DIYers who want a beautiful, professional-looking finish that lasts.
SuperPaint is Best For:
- Your primary home where you want long-lasting results.
- Repainting projects over existing colors.
- Homes in areas with harsh weather conditions (extreme sun, rain, or cold).
- Anyone who wants to “paint once” and not worry about it for many years.
The Head-to-Head Battle: A-100 vs SuperPaint
Now that we know the players, let’s see how they stack up in the areas that matter most to you. We’ll compare them on everything from how they hold up over time to how much they cost per gallon.
Durability and Longevity
This is where the difference between the two paints becomes crystal clear. Durability is all about how well the paint film holds up to wear and tear, peeling, cracking, and blistering over time.
A-100: This paint offers standard durability. Under normal conditions, you can expect a solid 4-6 years before you start seeing signs of wear, like fading or chalking (a fine, powdery substance on the surface). It forms a thinner, less flexible film, which makes it more susceptible to breaking down from the constant expansion and contraction that siding experiences with temperature changes.
SuperPaint: SuperPaint is the undisputed champion here. It’s formulated with more advanced acrylic resins that create a thicker, more flexible, and more breathable paint film. This allows it to expand and contract with your siding, which is key to preventing peeling and cracking. A well-applied coat of SuperPaint can easily last 8-10 years or more, retaining its color and protective qualities much longer. It’s built to endure.
Winner: SuperPaint
Coverage and Application
How a paint goes on the wall is incredibly important, especially for a DIY project. You want something that covers well in fewer coats and is easy to work with.
A-100: A-100 applies smoothly and has decent coverage. However, its lower volume of solids means you will likely need two full coats to get complete coverage, especially if you’re painting over a darker color. You may also need to apply a separate primer first if you’re painting on bare wood or a heavily weathered surface.
SuperPaint: SuperPaint truly shines in this category. Its high volume of solids and “paint and primer in one” technology give it exceptional coverage, or “hide.” Often, one coat can provide a dramatic improvement, and two coats will deliver a flawless, rich finish. It clings to the surface better, reducing drips and runs, which makes it more forgiving for beginners. This superior coverage can save you significant time and effort.
Winner: SuperPaint
Weather and UV Resistance
The exterior of your home is a battleground against Mother Nature. Your paint is the first line of defense against sun, rain, wind, and mildew.
A-100: A-100 provides adequate protection against the elements. However, its color is more prone to fading over time from exposure to direct sunlight. The UV rays break down the pigments in the paint, causing colors (especially darker shades) to look dull and washed out more quickly. It has decent mildew resistance, but premium paints offer better protection.
SuperPaint: This is where SuperPaint’s advanced formula proves its worth. It contains superior UV-blocking pigments and binders that protect your color from fading, keeping it vibrant for years longer. Its formula is also designed for enhanced mildew resistance, which is critical in damp or shady areas. According to the U.S. General Services Administration, high-quality paints can significantly protect building materials from moisture and solar radiation. SuperPaint is built to withstand harsh weather, making it the superior choice for long-term protection.
Winner: SuperPaint
Price and Overall Value
For most of us, budget is a major consideration. But it’s important to look at both the upfront cost and the long-term value.
A-100: This is A-100’s biggest selling point. It is significantly less expensive per gallon than SuperPaint. If you’re on a tight budget or painting a very large area where every dollar counts, the initial savings can be very appealing.
SuperPaint: SuperPaint has a higher price per gallon. There’s no getting around that. However, its value comes from its longevity. If A-100 lasts 5 years and SuperPaint lasts 10 years, you’ll have to buy materials and repaint your home twice in the same period. When you factor in the cost of your time (or labor if you hire someone), the better coverage (potentially needing less paint), and the longer life of the paint job, SuperPaint often proves to be the more economical choice in the long run.
Winner: A-100 for upfront cost, SuperPaint for long-term value.
Feature Comparison: At a Glance
Sometimes, a simple chart makes the decision easiest. Here’s a quick look at how these two paints compare side-by-side.
| Feature | A-100 Exterior Paint | SuperPaint Exterior Paint | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Durability | Standard (4-6 years) | Excellent (8-10+ years) | SuperPaint |
| Coverage | Good, may need 2+ coats | Excellent, covers in 1-2 coats | SuperPaint |
| Application | Smooth, standard application | Forgiving, less prone to drips | SuperPaint |
| Fade Resistance | Fair | Excellent | SuperPaint |
| Weather Protection | Good | Excellent | SuperPaint |
| Price (Per Gallon) | $ (Lower) | $$ (Higher) | A-100 |
| Long-Term Value | Good | Excellent | SuperPaint |
Pros and Cons: A Simple Breakdown
Let’s boil it all down into a simple pros and cons list for each paint. This can help you weigh your options based on what matters most to you.
Sherwin-Williams A-100
- Pros:
- Very affordable price point.
- Good choice for contractors or large-scale projects.
- Reliable performance for short-term needs.
- Comes in a wide range of colors.
- Cons:
- Lower durability; will need repainting sooner.
- More prone to fading from UV exposure.
- Coverage is not as good, may require more coats.
- Does not offer “paint and primer” benefits.
Sherwin-Williams SuperPaint
- Pros:
- Exceptional durability and longevity.
- Excellent fade and weather resistance.
- Fantastic coverage, often saving time and paint.
- Self-priming on previously painted surfaces.
- Provides a beautiful, rich finish.
- Cons:
- Higher upfront cost per gallon.
- May be overkill for temporary structures like sheds.
How to Choose the Right Paint For Your Project
Okay, you’ve seen the facts. Now, how do you make the final call? Ask yourself these simple questions to find your answer.
- What are you painting?
If it’s your main home that you love and plan to stay in, SuperPaint is almost always the right answer. Its durability will protect your biggest investment and keep it looking great. If you’re painting a rental property, a shed, or a fence that you might change later, the affordability of A-100 makes a lot of sense. - What is your budget?
If your budget is very tight and you absolutely need to minimize upfront costs, A-100 is a viable option that will get the job done. But if you can afford the extra cost for SuperPaint, think of it as an investment that will save you money on a repaint in just a few years. - How much do you value your time?
This is a big one for DIYers. SuperPaint’s excellent coverage and easy application can save you hours—or even days—of work. Fewer coats mean less time on a ladder and more time enjoying your newly painted home. That time savings is a value that doesn’t show up on the price tag. - What kind of weather does your home face?
If you live in an area with intense sun, heavy rain, or dramatic temperature swings, your paint needs to be tough. SuperPaint is specifically designed to handle these challenges, making it the far superior choice for homes in harsh climates.
By answering these questions honestly, the right choice will become clear. You’re not just buying paint; you’re buying protection, beauty, and peace of mind for your home.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Is SuperPaint really worth the extra cost over A-100?
For most homeowners, yes, absolutely. You are paying for longer durability, better color retention, and superior protection. This means you won’t have to repaint for many more years, which saves you money and significant effort in the long run. The extra upfront cost buys you peace of mind.
2. Can I use A-100 on my main house?
You certainly can. A-100 is a functional paint that will protect and color your home. Just be aware that you will likely need to repaint sooner than you would with SuperPaint. It’s a good choice if you’re planning to sell soon or if you’re on a very strict budget.
3. How many coats of SuperPaint do I need?
For most repainting jobs where you are not making a drastic color change, two coats of SuperPaint will give you a beautiful and durable finish. Its excellent coverage might look good after one coat, but a second coat is always recommended for maximum longevity and color richness.
4. Do I always need a primer with A-100?
If the existing surface is in good condition (clean and not peeling), you can often apply A-100 directly. However, if you are painting bare wood, new siding, or a surface that has been heavily scraped or patched, using a dedicated exterior primer first is highly recommended for best results and adhesion.
5. Is SuperPaint easier for a beginner to use?
Yes, many beginners find SuperPaint more forgiving. Its thicker consistency means it’s less likely to drip or run, and its excellent coverage helps hide minor imperfections more easily. This can lead to a more professional-looking result with less frustration.
6. What sheen or finish should I choose for my exterior?
The most popular choices for exteriors are flat/matte, satin, or semi-gloss. A flat finish is great for hiding imperfections on siding but can be harder to clean. Satin offers a slight sheen and is more durable and easier to clean, making it a great all-around choice. Semi-gloss is best for trim, doors, and shutters, as it’s highly durable and easy to wash.
The Final Verdict: And the Winner Is…
After looking at durability, application, weather resistance, and overall value, the proven winner for most homeowners is clear: Sherwin-Williams SuperPaint.
While A-100 holds a valuable place in the market as a cost-effective solution for contractors and budget-specific projects, SuperPaint is designed from the ground up to give your home the best possible protection and a lasting, beautiful appearance. The investment you make upfront pays you back for years with a finish that won’t fade, peel, or crack.
Choosing the right paint is one of the most important decisions you’ll make for your home’s exterior. It’s about more than just color; it’s about protection, value, and pride. By choosing SuperPaint, you’re setting your project up for success and ensuring that your hard work will be something you can admire for a very long time. Now, go grab your brushes—you’ve got this!
