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FAQ

Paint & Benjamin Moore

How do I choose the right Benjamin Moore paint finish (sheen)?

Sheen is how much light the paint reflects. Higher sheen is more durable and washable, but it shows surface imperfections more. A quick guide, and you can read Benjamin Moore's full sheen guide or browse colors here:

  • Flat / Matte — no shine, hides flaws. Ceilings and low-traffic areas.
  • Eggshell — most popular, soft glow, far more durable than flat. Living rooms, bedrooms, hallways.
  • Pearl — medium gloss, high durability. High-traffic and high-humidity areas.
  • Satin — more gloss and stain resistance. Kitchens, bathrooms, kids' rooms.
  • Semi-Gloss — tough and scrubbable. Trim, doors, cabinets.
  • High Gloss — most durable and dramatic, but shows every flaw. Front doors and accents.
When should I use primer?

You don't always need it — on previously painted surfaces in good condition, you can usually skip it. Use primer when you're painting bare surfaces (new drywall, wood, or metal), making a big color change (dark to light), covering stains, water damage, smoke, or tannin bleed, painting over a glossy surface, or dealing with peeling or chalky old paint. Painting water-based over oil-based? Use a bonding primer. We carry Benjamin Moore Fresh Start primers for all of these.

What's the difference between primer and paint?

Primer seals the surface, blocks stains, and creates a base for paint to grip. Paint provides color, sheen, and protection. Paint-and-primer-in-one is fine for a similar color on walls in good shape, but bare or stained surfaces need a dedicated primer first.

What's the difference between interior and exterior paint?

Interior paint is made for washability and low odor. Exterior paint is built to resist UV, mildew, and temperature swings, and to flex with surfaces as they expand and contract. Never use interior paint outdoors.

Can you match a paint color?

Yes. Bring in a sample — a quarter-sized chip or larger works best — and we'll match it with our in-store color matching. You can also browse Benjamin Moore colors before you come in.

Can I get a paint sample before buying a full gallon?

Absolutely. We offer paint samples — including interior eggshell and exterior samples — so you can test a color on your wall before committing to a gallon.

Do you do custom paint mixing?

Yes — we custom-mix paint in-store to get you the exact color and finish you need.

Services & Repairs

Do you repair window screens?

Yes, we repair and replace window screens. Cost depends on the size and screen type, so bring in your old screen and we'll give you a quote.

Do you do propane tank exchanges?

Yes, through Blue Rhino. Pull around back and we'll swap your empty tank for a full one.

Do you rent carpet cleaning equipment?

Yes — we rent commercial-grade carpet cleaning equipment.

Do you sharpen tools?

Yes — we sharpen tools, knives, scissors, and blades.

Can you help me find the right fastener?

Yes. Bring in the old fastener or the part it goes into, and know your material (wood, drywall, masonry, or metal). Our staff will walk you through thread size, head style, and coating — or start with our fasteners.

Shopping & Store Policies

When will my order ship?

Orders placed Monday–Friday before noon ship the same day. Orders placed Friday afternoon, Saturday, or Sunday go out the following Monday or Tuesday depending on volume.

If I cancel an order, when will I get my refund?

Your card is only authorized, not charged. If you cancel before the order ships, we release the hold and it clears in a few business days depending on your bank.

What's your return and exchange policy?

It varies by product. Most items can be returned with the original box and receipt, though some products aren't eligible.

Do you price match?

We don't price match, but we keep our pricing competitive.

Do you offer curbside pickup or delivery?

Yes — we offer both curbside pickup and local delivery.

What payment methods do you accept?

All major credit cards, cash, and checks.

Are you affiliated with True Value?

Yes — we're a True Value affiliated store, with the full product selection and member rewards.

Project & Product Knowledge

What safety equipment do I need for painting?

Safety glasses, gloves, and good ventilation (open windows plus a fan), along with drop cloths and painter's tape. For spraying, sanding, or oil-based paint, add a rated respirator and coveralls. In homes built before 1978, test for lead before dry-sanding. Find safety equipment here.

How much paint do I need?

A gallon covers about 350–400 sq ft per coat. Measure wall length × ceiling height, subtract about 20 sq ft per door and 15 per window, and plan on two coats. You can also use the Benjamin Moore paint calculator, or bring your measurements in and we'll help.

Drill or impact driver — which do I need?

A drill is the all-purpose tool for holes and smaller screws. An impact driver delivers bursts of rotational force, better for long screws and lag bolts. If you're only buying one, a drill is more versatile.

What drill bit do I need for a wall anchor?

The size is printed on the anchor packaging — match it exactly. Bring your wall anchors in and we'll match them.

How do I fix a running toilet?

Usually it's a worn flapper or a faulty fill valve. Check the flapper (the rubber seal at the bottom) first — it's inexpensive to replace. If it's still running, replace the fill valve. We carry both.

How do I winterize outdoor faucets?

Before the first hard freeze: disconnect and drain hoses, shut off the indoor valve, open the outdoor faucet to drain the line, and add an insulated cover. We stock covers, shutoff valves, and everything you need.

Ice melt vs. rock salt — what's the difference?

Rock salt (sodium chloride) is cheap and works down to about 20°F, but it can damage concrete, plants, and pets' paws. Ice melt blends (calcium or magnesium chloride) work at lower temperatures and are easier on concrete and pets. We carry both.

When should I fertilize my lawn in NJ?

Early fall is best, with a lighter application in spring as a secondary. New Jersey restricts fertilizer use in late fall, winter, and on frozen ground — check the current state blackout dates. Match the fertilizer to your grass type.

Do I need a permit for my project?

It depends on the scope. Painting usually doesn't. Plumbing, electrical, structural, and outdoor work often do. Check with the Ramsey Building Department first.

How do I test for lead paint?

Homes built before 1978 may have lead paint. We carry EPA-recognized test kits, or you can hire a certified inspector. If lead is present, don't dry-sand or scrape — we'll walk you through safer prep and protective gear.