best type of Benjamin Moore paint

The various Benjamin Moore products go up in price depending on how low the VOC is and the "friendliness to the environment". I used Regal Select (low VOC) recently and it cost around $50 per gallon. Aura was closer to $70 and I believe Natura was more expensive. Both of those products have zero VOCs. However, I have very bad allergies and have always had a reaction when we've painted before. I had no problems with the Regal Select and could even sleep in the same room the same day we painted.

If you are in Manhattan, go to AJO on Columbus Ave., between W 89 and W 90. I had the similar questions to yours and went to them for advice since there were so many new BM products. They were extremely helpful compared to Janovic. You can also go to: http://www.benjaminmoore.com/en-us/for-your-home/interior-paint-chooser.

I had been using Regal Classic eggshell and AJO told me it was being discontinued in favor of the Aura, Natura, and Regal Select. They also recommended with sticking with one product line if you thought you might need to buy paint in the future for touch ups.

All these paints are advertised as having the paint and primer together. However, I believe you still must use a primer if you're covering dark colors or having skim coating/plastering done. I selected Regal Select and Fresh Start primer since I had extensive plastering done along with skim coating. They have a special Fresh Start primer for painting over dark colors, "extra hide".

EGGSHELL is a MUST with children. It is very durable and easy to clean. When I sold my last apartment, I washed down the walls of my son's room and did some touch ups where I had mounted things on the wall. Even though the paint job was 8 years old, the color hadn't faded. (BM Regal Classic Eggshell). The new owners thought I had just painted the room.

Hi Aptbuyer, I just finished an apartment for a client of mine and used AURA Matte finish. It's a bit expensive per gallon but very worth it as it is washable and with kids thats a big plus. Best of luck!

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