Are you preparing for a paint project but can’t decide between Valspar Ultra and Signature?
What’s the difference? Which paint is better?
In this comparison of Valspar Ultra vs. Signature, you’ll learn how these paint lines differ in coverage, durability, colors, price, and more.
Plus, I reveal what paint experts at Lowe’s have to say.
Keep reading to find out if Valspar Ultra or Valspar Signature is the right paint for your next project.
Use the links below to navigate the comparison:
- Similarities Between Valspar Ultra and Signature
- Differences Between Valspar Ultra and Signature
- What Experts at Lowe’s Say
- What Others Are Saying
- Bottom Line: Should You Choose Valspar Ultra or Signature?
Similarities Between Valspar Ultra and Signature
Before I break down the differences between Valspar Ultra and Signature, let’s first take a look at the similarities.
Paint and Primer in One
Valspar Ultra and Valspar Signature are both 100% latex acrylic paint with primer included.
That means that you won’t spend extra time or money on priming before you paint.
VOCs
Paints with a higher VOC (volatile organic compounds) level can cause symptoms like headaches, dizziness, and nausea.
When the solvents in the paint evaporate, these chemicals are released into the air. That’s why you should always open windows and ensure the room you’re painting is well ventilated.
The good news is that Valspar Ultra and Signature are Greenguard Certified and considered zero-VOC paints because they contain less than 50 grams per liter (g/l), which is well below the federal cap of 250 g/l.
Due to the low VOC levels, both paints emit a mild odor and are less likely to make you lightheaded when painting.
Valspar Ultra and Valspar Signature both cover approximately 400 square feet per gallon. For reference, 400 square feet is about the size of a two-car garage.
If you are working on an outdoor project, Valspar Ultra Exterior paint covers a 350-400 square foot surface (Valspar Signature is only interior paint).
Dry time
Valspar Ultra and Valspar Signature have the same drying time. It takes about 30 to 60 minutes for the paint to dry to the touch, and you’ll need to wait two to four hours before applying a second coat.
Finishes
A paint’s finish affects both a paint’s shine and durability.
There are four finish options for both Valspar Ultra Interior and the Signature paint lines. They each come in flat, eggshell, satin, and semi-gloss finishes.
Colors
Sometimes picking a paint color is an overwhelming experience because there are so many choices.
Because Valspar Ultra and Signature offer the same colors, choosing the right hue is convenient regardless of which line you use.
Valspar’s website helps you narrow down your choices by color family. Once you pick your initial color, the website brings up several related colors to suit your needs.
Valspar makes it easy to pick a color by offering tools like the Paint Visualizer, which lets you see what specific paint colors look like in different rooms and lighting. Or, you can utilize Valspar’s free consultation option and get the help of color experts for more personalized advice.
Differences Between Valspar Ultra and Signature
Now that you know Valspar Ultra and Signature’s similarities, let’s review the differences.
Interior and Exterior
If you plan on painting inside and outside, Valspar Ultra offers an exterior paint line along with its interior paint. Valspar Signature is an interior paint only.
Volume Solids
Volume solids are a key factor to consider when choosing paint.
So, what are volume solids?
In short, paint is made of four elements: pigments, binder, solvent, and additives. When paint dries, the solvent evaporates, and you’re left with the pigment and binder on the wall. Volume solids are what’s left after the paint dries.
For example, if a paint has 35% volume solids, the formula is 35% pigments, binders, and additives, and 65% solvent.
A high volume solids percentage generally signifies higher quality, longer-lasting paint. It’s also thicker and covers better, so you’ll need fewer coats.
Refer to the chart below to compare the volume solids of Valspar Ultra and Signature (interior only).
| Finish | Ultra Interior Volume Solids | Signature Interior Volume Solids |
|---|---|---|
| Flat | 45% | 46% |
| Eggshell | 42% | 43% |
| Satin | 38% | 40% |
| Semi-Gloss | 35% | 37% |
As you can see, Valspar Signature interior has a higher volume solids percentage than Ultra interior, which means Signature delivers better coverage and is longer-lasting.
ScuffShield Technology
Durability is always a desirable quality to look for when choosing a paint brand.
Valspar Signature paint boasts ScuffShield Technology, which creates an invisible layer and makes it more resistant to scrapes and stains.
Valspar Ultra comes with ScrubShield Technology, which makes it easier to clean stains from surfaces.
Price
One of the most notable differences between Valspar Ultra and Signature is the price. Signature paint costs approximately 30% (or $8 per gallon) more than Ultra.
That said, prices vary by finish and retailer, and pricing is always subject to change.
The chart below makes it easy to compare the price of Ultra vs. Signature for each finish.
| Finish | Valspar Ultra Prices | Valspar Signature Prices |
|---|---|---|
| Flat | Lowes.com | Lowes.com |
| Eggshell | Lowes.com | Lowes.com |
| Satin | Lowes.com | Lowes.com |
| Semi-Gloss | Lowes.com | Lowes.com |
What Paint Experts at Lowe’s Say
I reached out to the paint departments at several Lowe’s stores to get their take on Valspar Signature and Ultra paint.
When I spoke to each paint expert, I asked a simple question: what’s the difference between Valspar Signature and Ultra?
First, I spoke with a paint expert at Lowe’s in Framingham, Massachusetts.
He said Signature paint contains more titanium oxide, which improves its hideability. In other words, it makes the paint more opaque, so it hides the colors you’re painting over.
He also mentioned that Signature paint is thicker, holds its pigment better, and won’t fade from sunlight or other weather conditions.
He said Ultra is thinner and less durable, but it’s ideal if you’re using a sprayer — Signature is too thick for sprayers.
For most interior paint jobs, he recommended Signature over Ultra. He said it’s a middle-of-the-road paint that’s creamy, not too thick, and costs less than brands like Benjamin Moore and Sherwin-Williams.
If you’re painting white over a white wall, Ultra is fine. But if you’re changing color families, he highly recommends Signature.
I connected with the paint department at Lowe’s in North Attleborough, Massachusetts, to get another opinion.
The paint expert there told me Signature is the better quality paint. She said it offers superior coverage, and it’s formulated to last longer than Ultra.
She admitted that Ultra is not the best quality paint, but it’s inexpensive.
She said Signature usually requires two coats, but with Ultra, you might need a third. If you want one-coat coverage, she recommended Valspar Reserve, the brand’s thickest and highest-quality paint (check out my comparison of Valspar Reserve vs. Signature to learn more).
Lastly, I spoke with the paint expert at Lowe’s in Woburn, Massachusetts.
He echoed the same themes as the others: Signature provides superior coverage and durability than Ultra.
He mentioned that the price of paint generally gives you a sense of its quality, and Signature is one step up from Ultra.
The overall sentiment of the conversations with paint experts at Lowe’s stores was that Signature is a higher-quality paint that offers better coverage and durability.
They all agreed that Ultra gets the job done when you’re painting over a similar color, but Signature is a much better choice if you’re changing colors.
What Others Are Saying
Let’s review what other experts and outlets are saying to get a broader perspective on Valspar Ultra and Signature paint.
Good Housekeeping gives Ultra points for its low VOC rating and resistance to scratching and fading. The one negative is its poor coverage quality, suggesting that Ultra might need more than one coat.
Experts at BobVila.com reviewed paint brands that are the best for one coat paint jobs. While Ultra did not top the list, it was selected as an honorable mention. They praised Valspar Ultra for its resistance to damaging elements like “flame, mold, mildew, staining, and moisture.” They also stated that the resistance to staining and wear makes it ideal for baseboards and trim.
Decor and gardening website The Spruce named Valspar Ultra as the best high gloss paint. The reviewer loves the versatility of this paint because it works for both interior and exterior paint jobs. The washable finish also gets recognition because it only needs soap and water to clean.
Good Housekeeping experts praised Valspar Signature’s quality and value, along with its low VOC level. The reviewers were concerned about the evenness of the coverage, but overall the review is a positive one.
The Spruce also mentions Valspar Signature Flat as the best matte paint. The ScuffShield technology makes the paint highly recommended due to stain resistance. The reviewers praised Signature for its smooth application and excellent coverage.
In another Bob Vila article reviewing the best paint for home improvement projects, Valspar Signature lands in the top three. The reviewers praised its coverage, low VOC level, and fast drying time. They also highlighted its ScuffShield technology, which further enhances its durability.
Business Insider named Valspar Signature the best paint for stain removal. They called out its excellent coverage, fade resistance, and low VOC level.
Bottom Line: Should You Choose Valspar Ultra or Signature?
Now that you know the similarities and differences between Valspar Ultra and Valspar Signature, it’s time to make a decision.
But before you pick your paint, let’s quickly recap:
- Valspar Ultra and Valspar Signature are both paint and primer in one, making them a convenient time-saver.
- Both paints are low-VOC.
- Both cover approximately 400 square feet per gallon.
- It takes two to four hours for both paints to dry completely.
- Both offer the same finishes and colors.
- Valspar Signature has a higher volume solids percentage than Ultra. Higher volume solids mean better coverage and durability.
- The Ultra line includes interior and exterior paint (Signature is interior paint only).
- The Signature formula includes ScuffShield Technology, whereas the Valspar Ultra comes with ScrubShield Technology. ScuffShield makes the paint highly resistant to stains and scrapes, and ScrubShield makes the paint easy to clean.
- Valspar Signature is approximately 30% more expensive than Ultra.
Bottom line — Valspar Signature is better quality paint. It’s thicker, more durable, and requires fewer coats.
If your walls are always getting scuffed up and you need highly durable paint, go with Signature. It costs more; but, if it’s within your budget, it’s worth the investment.
Valspar Ultra won’t last as long or cover as well, but it’s less expensive. If you’re renting, planning to move soon, or frequently change colors, Ultra is a solid, low-cost option.
Learn more about both paint lines on Valspar.com (Ultra, Signature) or Lowes.com (Ultra, Signature).
Related Topics
- Valspar vs. Sherwin-Williams Paint: What’s the Difference?
- Valspar vs. Benjamin Moore Paint: What’s the Difference?
- Behr vs. Valspar: Which Paint Is Better?
- Valspar 2000 vs. 4000: What’s the Difference?
- Valspar Reserve vs. Signature: Which Paint Is Better?
- Behr vs. Benjamin Moore: Which Paint Is Better?
- Valspar vs. Glidden: Which Paint Is Better?
FAQs
What are the different levels of Valspar paint? ›
- Eggshell.
- Flat.
- Gloss.
- High-Gloss.
- Matte.
- Satin.
- Semi-Gloss.
The bottom line — Valspar Reserve is a better quality paint than Valspar Signature. But this premium paint comes at a premium cost. If you want the very best that Valspar has to offer, go with Reserve paint.
What kind of paint is Valspar Signature? ›The 100% acrylic formula provides a stands up to anything™ film resisting scuffs and stains. This Valspar® product is excellent for customers that want a paint that holds up to wear and tear while displaying rich, fade resistant colors.
Is Valspar Ultra better than signature? ›Both offer the same finishes and colors. Valspar Signature has a higher volume solids percentage than Ultra. Higher volume solids mean better coverage and durability. The Ultra line includes interior and exterior paint (Signature is interior paint only).
What is the best grade of Valspar paint? ›Valspar Medallion Semi-gloss/ Semi-matte
Also, as this Medallion Semi-Gloss is the choice for smaller areas, it seems to focus so much more on the paint quality. In fact, it ranks as one in the Finest Quality product line from Valspar.
Read 219 Reviews Same page link. This paint and primer is our most advanced protection with one-coat coverage for ultra-rich, fade-resistant color in a 100% acrylic formula. Enjoy a luxurious finish that provides remarkable hide and coverage, backed by a lifetime limited warranty.
Is Valspar Signature good for bathrooms? ›Valspar Signature
Valspar delivers when it comes to creating one of the very best bathroom paints. With a semi-gloss sheen that shines effortlessly, this paint is ideal for high traffic areas such as your bathroom.
Valspar and Sherwin-Williams are two of the most popular paint brands. Although Sherwin-Williams acquired Valspar in 2017, they remain separate brands with unique paint offerings.
Do I need to prime with Valspar Signature? ›Valspar Signature® paint can be used to prime patched areas and bare surfaces before applying the finish coat. For best results on heavily stained areas, drastic color changes or deep, vivid colors, prime with Valspar® Interior Multi-Purpose Primer Sealer for optimal color accuracy and coverage. Stir paint thoroughly.
Why does Valspar paint crack? ›Flaking can occur if the surface hasn't been prepped properly and if it's happened in one place, it's likely to happen on other parts of the wall too. To fix flaking paint, you first need to remove the loose parts. Use a flat-edged scraper to remove the flaking parts and loose paint.
Is Valspar Ultra one coat? ›
Valspar Ultra Is Washable
It is Interior Paint and Primer in one. It resists scrubs and stains. Stains wash off easily.
By and large, most professional painters use either Sherwin-Willaims or Benjamin Moore paint products. In fact, 50% of painting contractors chose Benjamin Moore's Regal Select line as their favorite paint.
Which interior paint lasts the longest? ›Oil-Based Acrylic Paint
When properly sealed in a container, oil-based paint boasts the longest shelf life of any type of paint. A can that's been opened and properly resealed may easily last a decade in storage, while unopened paint can last up to 15 years.
Nominating the best paint brand isn't as easy as just choosing one front-runner; choosing the right product for the right job is the most important way to ensure durability and good-looking results. However, most professional painters would cite Sherwin-Williams' or Benjamin Moore's products as the best paints.
Is Valspar Ultra White too white? ›Ultra White – Valspar
Ultra White is very comparable to Extra White. I've noticed those not using Extra White for trim and baseboards, they're usually using Ultra White. This is a bright, clean white without any other undertones. From the lighting I used, you can see that it showed a slight warm hue with the color.
Valspar Ultra® Interior Paint & Primer
This paint delivers an everyday washable™, smooth finish with good stain resistance. The 100% acrylic formula provides protection from everyday scuffs, marks & wear making it easy to wash off.
Which is best, Farrow & Ball or Valspar? As per our comparison table, there are a lot of pros and cons to both brands but on balance our recommendation is that if you like Farrow & Ball's colour range and can afford it, then go for it - it certainly does have an edge over Valspar's synthetic offering.
What paint has the hardest finish? ›High Gloss
The most durable and easiest to clean of all paint sheens, high-gloss paint is hard, ultra-shiny, and light-reflecting. Think appliance-paint tough. High gloss is a good choice for area that sticky fingers touch -- cabinets, trim, and doors. High-gloss, however, is too much shine for interior walls.
Sherwin-Williams is the better paint brand in terms of quality. Valspar offers a wider range of offerings, with some really good quality options providing durable coats and great coverage. However, most experts agree that Sherwin-Williams comes on top in durability and quality.
Is higher quality paint worth it? ›An inexpensive brand might make sense in the short term, but higher-quality paint will go on smoother, take longer to dry (meaning brush strokes are less visible), and last longer, demanding fewer retouches down the line. Plus, you won't need to use as much paint—think one or two coats versus three or four.
Does Valspar paint need two coats? ›
The amount of paint you'll need is also influenced by the number of coats you're using. We recommend using two coats of our Premium Walls & Ceilings Paint for a beautifully deep colour.
Is Valspar Signature water or oil based? ›Valspar | Oil-based | Interior Paint.
What is the most popular bathroom color for 2022? ›According to top interior designers, modern blue, light green, and warmer neutral bathroom color schemes are popular in 2022. These are a continuation of 2021's best bathroom color trends in many ways. In a similar fashion, shades like taupe, all-white bathrooms, and warm natural undertones are also trending this year.
What is the best paint for a bathroom with moisture? ›Glossy paints offer the most protection from moisture. Glossy finishes are the easiest to clean, making them perfect for bathroom cabinets and trim. Here are some great gloss paint options for your bathroom project: BEHR Premium Plus Hi-Gloss Enamel Interior/Exterior Paint.
What color to paint a small bathroom to make it look bigger? ›So what colors make a bathroom look bigger? According to basic design principles, light colors such as white, crème, pastel blue, gray or yellow will visually expand a room, while dark colors such as a deep red, green or brown, will make a room feel smaller.
Is Valspar Ultra a latex paint? ›Valspar Ultra Satin Ultra White Tintable Latex Interior Paint + Primer (1-Gallon)
Is Valspar and Benjamin Moore the same? ›To quickly recap: Valspar and Benjamin Moore have a range of interior and exterior paints, but Benjamin Moore offers more specialty paints. Valspar is available at Lowe's stores, on Lowes.com, and in local paint and hardware stores. Benjamin Moore is available at Ace Hardware and other specialty paint retailers.
Is Valspar owned by Sherwin-Williams? ›SHERWIN‐WILLIAMS COMPLETES ACQUISITION OF VALSPAR CREATES THE GLOBAL LEADER IN PAINT AND COATINGS.
What happens if you don't prime before painting? ›If you skip priming, you risk peeling paint, especially in humid conditions. Moreover, the lack of adhesion could make cleaning more difficult months after the paint has dried. You may find the paint wearing off as you're trying to wipe off dirt or fingerprints.
How long should I wait to put in a second coat of Valspar paint? ›Wait two hours for it to dry before applying a second coat. If you need to paint behind radiators, use a radiator roller to coat the wall while the rest of your paint is drying.
How many coats of Valspar paint do I need? ›
We recommend priming the surface before painting it. We recommend 2 coats of primer to seal the surface followed by 2 coats of topcoat. The primer will seal the substrate and provide added durability. It will also increase the hiding and coverage of the paint.
Why is my Valspar paint bubbling? ›Shaking a paint can, or stirring it too vigorously introduces air into the paint that can cause foaming, as can using old or low-quality paint. Applying paint too rapidly or using the wrong roller also creates tiny bubbles on the wall. Finally, painting over a porous surface can also allow bubbles to form.
Is Valspar paint guaranteed? ›THE PERFECT COLOR, GUARANTEED
At Valspar, we believe that every time you walk into a room, it should feel right. So if the first color you choose isn't perfect, we'll replace it for free.
Once opened water-based acrylic or latex paint can stay good for up to 10 years when properly stored in a cool, dry room in your home.
Does Valspar need a top coat? ›NO TOP COAT NEEDED!
What is this? Since a top coat isn't required with Valspar Cabinet and Furniture Paint, you can easily touch up any scuffs or chips if they occur. Just sand and reapply where needed.
Valspar is sold at Lowe's and independent retailers, so you're never far from starting a project or a job. Check your local retailer for current store hours.
What paint gives the smoothest finish? ›Semi-gloss and gloss paints reflect light, giving them a bright, shiny finish. While semi-gloss and gloss paints require more prep work and sanding than their matter counterparts to ensure a smooth application, paints with a glossy finish can be scrubbed once dry and are easy to clean.
What paint do builders use? ›Flat paint, although it is inferior in many ways, is the best at touching-up. The lack of shine make the paint blend better with the previous paint. Builders do not like to have to paint walls edge to edge, so they use flat paint.
What paint finish is most forgiving? ›Which paint is best and long lasting? ›
House Painting Designs and Colours #2: Emulsion
Moreover, it is much more durable than distemper because it comprises acrylic or vinyl to make it long-lasting, making it the best paint for interior walls.
Red exterior paints tend to fade the fastest based on how their specific pigments interact with UV light. Whites and lighter neutrals are going to get you the most fade-resistant results.
Who has the highest quality paint? ›1. Sherwin-Williams: Best Overall. If price isn't an issue and you want trusted, premium paint, Sherwin-Williams is the best brand of paint. Many believe it is the best interior paint brand on the market today.
What is the best paint in the world? ›- AkzoNobel.
- Nippon Paint Holdings Co.
- RPM International Inc.
- Axalta Coating Systems.
- BASF Coatings.
- Asian Paints Limited.
- Kansai Paint Co. Ltd.
- Jotun.
Valspar 2000 is offered in eggshell, flat, satin, and semi-gloss finishes, Valspar 4000 (interior) comes in eggshell, flat, and semi-gloss, and Valspar 4000 (exterior) comes in satin and semi-gloss. Valspar 2000 has a higher volume solids percentage than Valspar 4000, regardless of which finish you choose.
What are the levels of paint quality? ›There's a basic rule of thumb to follow when choosing paint sheens: The higher the sheen, the higher the shine -- and the higher the shine, the more durable it will be. Flat paint has no shine; high-gloss is all shine. In between are eggshell, satin, and semi-gloss, each with its own practical and decorative job to do.
What are the levels of paint? ›- Full gloss: 70–90%
- Semi-gloss: 41–69%
- Satin: 26–40%
- Sheen: 15–25%
- Eggshell: 10–15%
- Matte: <10%
Premium paints are generally thicker, so they give a little more latitude for changing colors without needing an extra coat, and they are also more durable then lower-grade paints. This means they may last longer or wash better and this translates into savings over time by not having to re-paint as often.
What is the difference between Valspar Signature and Valspar 2000? ›Valspar Signature is available in flat, eggshell, satin and semi-gloss sheens. Suggested retail starts at $31.98 per gallon. A professional grade go-to workhorse, Valspar Ultra 2000 offers a high-performance latex coating with excellent touch-up, best-in-class durability, and superior hide and coverage.
What brand of paint do professionals use? ›By and large, most professional painters use either Sherwin-Willaims or Benjamin Moore paint products. In fact, 50% of painting contractors chose Benjamin Moore's Regal Select line as their favorite paint.
What paints do professionals use? ›
When painting contractors seek out quality paint for their jobs, they often choose Benjamin Moore and Sherwin-Williams – two of the best selling brands on the market. Professional painters the world over have used these paints to great success for many years.
What is the strongest type of paint? ›Enamel paint is one of the strongest and most sought-after types of paint, but not many people know why they want it. It is made with enamel that leaves a glossy shimmer on surfaces.
What paint finish is easiest clean? ›Eggshell Finish
"It is the easiest paint to wipe clean and is great for all areas of the home, including bathrooms and kitchens," she says. "I only use a gloss or semi-gloss paint on base, case, trim, and cabinetry."
Generally, you will want a minimum of two coats of paint – this is a good rule of thumb for any wall or ceiling you're painting. You'll rarely get a seamless finish from just one coat of paint, and even if you do, coverage isn't the only goal when it comes to painting a room.
What paint gives the hardest finish? ›What is the hardest paint finish? If you're able to apply an epoxy modified alkyd paint, you won't find a harder finish. Thanks to the epoxy in the paint, it's very like resin in durability.
What Sheen should walls be painted? ›Flat, eggshell and satin paint are best for interior walls, whereas semi-gloss and gloss paint are best for trim and woodwork.