GoodHome Paint Review By Professionals

When it comes to retail paint, the GoodHome range from B&Q has become a notable contender, especially among professional decorators who have put these products to the test in various settings. Unlike many retail paints that often fall short in professional applications, GoodHome paints have sparked interest and debate among seasoned decorators.

This review delves into the real-world experiences of these professionals, offering insights into how GoodHome Tough & Durable, Ultra Cover, and Durable Matt paints perform in different environments. From covering dark colours to handling wear and tear in high-traffic areas, these paints have been scrutinised by those who rely on them daily, providing a comprehensive look at what you can expect from this retail paint range.

GoodHome Tough & Durable

The GoodHome Tough & Durable paint by B&Q has gained a lot of appreciation from decorators across the board. It’s widely regarded for its impressive coverage and robust finish, making it a go-to choice for both professional and DIY projects.

Decorators like Simon D were particularly impressed by its ability to cover strong colours like terracotta and peach in just two coats, which is often a challenging task. This makes it an excellent choice for refreshing walls that have previously been painted in bold or dark shades. Tony H echoed these sentiments, noting that the paint’s coverage is “decent” and it works well even on woodwork, which adds to its versatility.

Many decorators, including Ashley E and Mike T, highlighted the value for money that this paint offers. Priced around £38 for 5 litres, it’s considered a budget-friendly alternative to more expensive brands like Dulux Diamond Matt, without compromising on quality. Tony Y and John U also mentioned that the paint can be mixed to any colour at the Valspar counter, giving decorators even more flexibility in their projects.

However, there are some downsides to consider. The paint is notably thick, which can make application challenging. Ian I compared it to ready-mixed filler, describing it as almost too thick to work with straight out of the tin. Many decorators recommend thinning it slightly with water to make it more manageable. Additionally, Ian I pointed out that the paint can be tough on brushes and rollers, potentially reducing their lifespan.

In terms of finish, while some decorators appreciate the slight sheen it provides, others, like Craig E, feel that it’s too shiny for their liking, particularly if a matt finish is desired. This means it might not be the best choice for all types of projects, especially those requiring a completely flat finish.

Despite these minor drawbacks, the GoodHome Tough & Durable paint remains a popular choice among decorators, particularly for its coverage, durability, and value for money.

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GoodHome Ultra Cover

The GoodHome Ultra Cover paint is another highly rated option within the range, known for its exceptional opacity and ability to cover dark colours with ease. It’s particularly popular for use on ceilings and walls where a solid, uniform finish is required.

Niall A and Joe S have both praised its strong opacity, noting that it can cover dark colours like grey in just one or two coats, which is a significant advantage in decorating. Glenn F also mentioned that the paint goes on smoothly and leaves no “bits” or skins in the tub, which is essential for achieving a professional finish.

The durability of Ultra Cover has also been highlighted by decorators like James G, who found it to be robust enough for both ceilings and walls. It’s particularly favoured in rental properties where a quick, reliable finish is needed.

However, not all feedback is glowing. Andrew H reported issues with patchiness when using it on ceilings, even after trying various application methods. This suggests that while the paint performs well in many scenarios, it may not be the best choice for all ceiling types, particularly those with tricky lighting conditions.

Another point to consider is the paint’s consistency. Like the Tough & Durable variant, Ultra Cover is thick and may require thinning with water before use. Antony K and LDS both mentioned that this extra step can be a bit of a hassle, but it’s necessary to achieve a smooth application.

The finish of Ultra Cover has also received mixed reviews. While it’s marketed as a matt paint, some decorators, like Richard L, noted that it has a slight sheen, which might not be ideal for those looking for a completely matt finish.

Overall, GoodHome Ultra Cover is a strong contender in the budget paint market, offering excellent coverage and durability, particularly for ceilings and walls. However, its thick consistency and potential for patchiness on ceilings are factors to keep in mind when choosing this paint for your next project.

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GoodHome Durable Matt

GoodHome Durable Matt is often compared to trade paints such as Johnstone’s and Crown, making it a popular choice for both professional decorators and DIY enthusiasts. It’s particularly noted for its bright white finish and durable nature, which is why it’s frequently used in rentals and for projects where budget is a concern.

Paddy V and Matt B have praised the paint for its opacity, especially in its brilliant white variant. This makes it a reliable choice for covering previous colours or giving a fresh, bright look to a space. Alan N mentioned that it’s especially good for stairways and hallways, where a strong, durable finish is essential.

One of the key advantages of this paint is its affordability. Priced at around £30 for 10 litres, it’s considered great value for money, particularly given its coverage and durability. Paul M noted that it’s a favourite among decorators who need a cost-effective yet reliable paint for high-traffic areas.

However, there have been some concerns about the paint’s finish. Andy Q pointed out that while the paint used to be more of a flat matt, recent formulations have made it shinier, which might not suit everyone’s preferences. David W agreed, noting that the newer version of the paint seems to be more satin-like, which could be a downside for those specifically looking for a matt finish.

Despite these minor concerns, GoodHome Durable Matt continues to be a solid choice for decorators who need a reliable, durable paint at an affordable price. Its strong coverage, especially in white, and its ease of use make it a popular option for a variety of projects.