Benjamin Moore is one of the most popular and trusted paint brands in North America. With over 3,500 colors in their palette, Benjamin Moore offers a wide variety of paint finishes and sheens to meet the needs of both residential and commercial projects. One type of paint finish that people often wonder about is pearlescent paint. In this article, we’ll look at what pearlescent paint is and discuss if Benjamin Moore manufactures this type of specialty finish.
What is Pearlescent Paint?
Pearlescent paint, sometimes called nacreous paint, contains small flecks of mica in the paint base. Mica is a mineral that can reflect and refract light, creating an iridescent sheen on walls and other painted surfaces. The shimmering effect of the tiny mica particles gives a surface painted with pearlescent paint a lustrous, ethereal look.
Unlike metallic paints which have larger flakes of metal, the mica particles in pearlescent paint are very finely ground. This allows the paint to have a subtler, softer shimmer rather than a high-reflective metallic look. The pearlescent effect is especially noticeable when natural light hits the painted surface.
Benefits of Using Pearlescent Paint
Here are some of the benefits and effects that can be achieved with pearlescent paint:
– Creates depth and visual interest on walls and ceilings
– Soft, luminous finish that gently reflects light
– Can highlight architectural details and moldings
– Disguises imperfections in surfaces
– Gives a subtle metallic shimmer without being overly flashy
– Transforms ordinary walls into a focal point
– Available in a variety of tinted colors beyond basic white
The combination of the pearly, luminescent finish with different pigment tints allows for beautiful, unique decorative effects. That’s why pearlescent paint is often used by interior designers for high-end residential and commercial spaces.
Does Benjamin Moore Offer Pearlescent Paint?
Benjamin Moore does offer a few options for those looking for a pearlescent paint finish. However, the selection is quite limited compared to regular Benjamin Moore interior paint lines.
Here are the Benjamin Moore pearlescent paint choices:
Waterborne Ceiling Paint
Benjamin Moore’s Waterborne Ceiling Paint collection includes two soft-toned pearlescent colors:
– Silverdrop – A warm, champagne pearl finish
– palladianBlue – A cool, subtle blue gray pearl
The pearly sheen is understated but can add an elegant touch to ceiling surfaces. This low-odor, low VOC paint is specifically designed for use on ceilings and dries to a soft velvety finish.
Studio Finishes Metallic Pearlescent Colors
The Studio Finishes line by Benjamin Moore offers two metallic pearl paint colors:
– Pearl Essence – A light, silvery white pearl
– Gold Pearl – A warm champagne pearl
These colors deliver a brighter, more pronounced pearlescent look compared to the Waterborne Ceiling Paint. They come in satin or high gloss sheens. The Studio Finishes paint provides rich, decadent color and a liquid metal-like finish.
Gilded Glamour Metallic Pearlescent Paint
Gilded Glamour is a metallic pearl glaze by Benjamin Moore that can be used to add a touch of luster over any paint color. It delivers a brighter, medium-toned champagne gold shimmer.
Gilded Glamour comes concentrated in a 4 oz bottle. It’s meant to be mixed with Benjamin Moore paint or clear acrylic glazing liquid to create a custom pearlescent glaze.
Applying Benjamin Moore Pearlescent Paint
While the application process is fairly straightforward, there are some tips to follow to get the best results from Benjamin Moore’s pearlescent paints:
– Use a high-quality benjamin moore roller with a thin nap or short-nap microfiber roller. This helps evenly pick up and apply the mica particles.
– Apply the paint in parallel straight lines rather than in a “W” or crisscross motion. The linear application minimizes uneven build up of the mica.
– Maintain a wet edge and work in sections to prevent lap marks that could show shimmer variations.
– Roll out the paint vertically first, then go over it horizontally. The two-directional rolling helps achieve an even pearlescent effect.
– Use a premium benjamin moore angled brush for best results cutting-in around trim and edges.
– Two coats are recommended for full, even coverage and maximum luminosity.
– Allow proper dry time between coats according to manufacturer’s instructions.
Benjamin Moore Pearlescent Paint Sheens
Benjamin Moore offers their pearlescent paints in satin, semi-gloss, and high gloss sheens:
| Pearlescent Product Line | Available Sheens |
|---|---|
| Studio Finishes Metallic Pearlescent | Satin, High Gloss |
| Waterborne Ceiling Paint | Low Sheen |
| Gilded Glamour Metallic Glaze | N/A – Mixed into paint |
The sheen plays a role in the intensity and look of the pearlescent effect. Lower sheen paints like eggshell or satin have a more subtle metallic shimmer. Higher gloss paints make the pearlescent particles noticeably stand out and refract more light.
Cost of Benjamin Moore Pearlescent Paint
Benjamin Moore pearlescent paints cost $50 to $100 per gallon bucket. Here are approximates costs for specific products:
– Waterborne Ceiling Paint – $50 to $60 per gallon
– Studio Finishes Metallic – $90 to $100 per gallon
– Gilded Glamour Glaze – $25 for 4 oz concentrated bottle
The Studio Finishes Metallic colors are the most expensive due to the higher concentration of pearlescent mica particles. The Waterborne Ceiling Paint offers a much more economical option. Due to the translucent layering effect, the small 4 oz bottle of Gilded Glamour concentrate can cover approximately 50 to 100 sq ft.
Compared to a standard $50 Benjamin Moore interior paint, the pearlescent varieties do come at a premium price point. The special formulations and mica ingredients result in the increased cost.
Alternatives to Benjamin Moore Pearlescent Paint
While Benjamin Moore does carry pearlescent paints, the selection is quite limited compared to other brands that offer dozens of metallic pearl and mica paint choices. Here are some top alternatives:
– KILZ Luminous Ceiling Paint – Available in 8 pearlescent sheens and tints
– Modern Masters Metallic Paint – Over 50 colors ranging from champagne to copper to violet
– BEHR Premium Pearlescent Paint – Multiple premixed color options and custom tintable pearl bases
– Rust-Oleum Metallic Pearlescent Paint – For interior and exterior use
– Sherwin-Williams Interior Pearlescent Paint – Custom matching pearlescent to any paint color
These brands provide a much wider range of pearlescent finishes and colors to choose from. Certain paint brands also offer exterior grade mica paints for siding, shutters, front doors and other outdoor surfaces.
Conclusion
In summary, Benjamin Moore does produce a few pearlescent paint options in their specialty lines. However, the selection is very limited compared to other major paint manufacturers. The Benjamin Moore pearlescent paints that are available can add an elegant, shimmery look and custom effects when applied properly. But buyers looking for more color choices may want to explore paint brands that offer a broader range of metallic and pearl finishes. For most projects, the small palette of Benjamin Moore pearlescent paints sufficiently provides this unique finish.
