Little Greene is often hailed as one of the top premium paints available, praised for its coverage, durability, and finish. I’ve gathered feedback from several professional painters, including Paul J., Kevin C., and others, to create a detailed review, covering all aspects of the paint’s performance.
Durability
Paul J., a seasoned decorator, has used Little Greene for over a decade and emphasized its durability:
“The Intelligent range, especially the Intelligent Matt and Intelligent Eggshell, holds up incredibly well in high-traffic areas like hallways and kitchens. Even after two years, my clients report minimal wear and tear.”
Kevin C., who often works on woodwork and cabinetry, noted:
“It’s one of the most durable paints I’ve ever worked with, particularly in kitchens where the paint needs to withstand constant use.”
John S. agreed, highlighting its durability even on exterior surfaces:
“Little Greene’s exterior paints are top-notch. They don’t chip or fade easily, even in tough weather conditions.”
However, not all feedback was as glowing. Carla W., who faced issues with an exterior project, said:
“I had a problem with their exterior oil-based paint failing after just a year. It seemed to be a prep issue, but for a premium product, I expected better.”
Application
Most decorators find Little Greene a pleasure to work with, although some note minor challenges. Paul J. highlighted how the paint applies smoothly:
“The consistency is perfect for cutting in and rolling; it just flows. Even on large surfaces, it levels out beautifully with minimal brush marks.”
Kevin C., however, mentioned the paint’s thickness:
“On hotter days, it can dry quickly and drag a little. I often thin it down with about 10% water or use Floetrol to slow the drying process.”
Sarah B. praised its adaptability:
“I’ve found Little Greene works brilliantly when sprayed, especially the Intelligent Satinwood. The finish is flawless.”
However, Jay S. shared a concern:
“The darker colours can be tricky. I needed three coats of ‘Basalt’ on a job to get a solid finish, which was more than I expected.”
Cost
Little Greene is undoubtedly positioned as a premium brand, which reflects in its pricing. Paul J. stated:
“It’s expensive, but the quality justifies it. My clients often comment on how long the finish lasts, so they see it as a good investment.”
Kevin C. agreed, but with reservations:
“For a 5-litre tin, you’re looking at around £100. It’s worth it on high-end jobs, but for smaller projects, I sometimes opt for alternatives.”
Jay S. raised a valid point about pricing:
“The paint is brilliant, but you need to make sure your customers understand the cost upfront, especially if you’re doing a whole house. It adds up quickly.”
Comparisons to Other Brands
Many decorators compared Little Greene to Farrow & Ball, with Little Greene often coming out on top.
John M. shared his thoughts:
“I prefer Little Greene over Farrow & Ball. It’s more forgiving in application and covers better with fewer coats.”
Paul J. noted:
“Little Greene’s colours are just as complex as Farrow & Ball’s, but the paint itself performs better in durability and coverage.”
However, Alix S. offered a more balanced view:
“I’ve used both brands, and while Little Greene is great, Farrow & Ball has some unique colours that Little Greene doesn’t quite match in depth. It really depends on the project.”
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent Durability: The paint holds up well in high-traffic areas and exterior surfaces, making it ideal for long-lasting results.
- Smooth Application: Easy to work with, especially for cutting in and rolling, with minimal brush marks.
- Versatile Finish: Works well for both interiors and exteriors, with various finishes available (e.g., Matt, Satinwood, Eggshell).
- Colour Depth: Little Greene offers a rich and extensive colour palette.
Cons:
- High Cost: At around £100 for a 5-litre tin, the price can be a significant factor for smaller jobs.
- Multiple Coats Required for Dark Colours: Some decorators, like Jay S., found that darker shades required three coats for proper coverage.
- Exterior Paint Prep Sensitivity: Carla W. faced issues with exterior paint failing, suggesting it may require extra attention during surface preparation.
Conclusion and Final Rating
Little Greene stands out as a premium paint brand that delivers excellent durability, smooth application, and a stunning finish. Decorators like Paul J. and Kevin C. praise its lasting power and ease of use, although its high cost and occasional need for multiple coats with darker colours are potential downsides. Comparatively, it outperforms brands like Farrow & Ball in many areas but does come at a premium price point.
Overall, Little Greene is best suited for high-end projects where quality and longevity matter most.
Final Rating: 4.5/5
