Benjamin Moore Advance: Best Paint for Cabinets

Benjamin Moore Advance Paint is a waterborne alkyd paint. This innovative formula is engineered to provide the characteristics of oil-based paints. It includes self-leveling properties. These properties are usually found in traditional alkyd paints. Benjamin Moore Advance Paint is widely used for interior projects. Interior projects include kitchen cabinets and trim. Its durable finish and ease of application make it a favorite among painting professionals. DIY enthusiasts also love it.

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Discovering the Excellence of Benjamin Moore ADVANCE Paint

Okay, let’s talk paint. But not just any paint. We’re diving headfirst into the world of Benjamin Moore ADVANCE, a true game-changer in the DIY and professional painting scenes.

Benjamin Moore: A Name You Can Trust

Benjamin Moore. Just the name conjures up images of perfectly painted walls, right? For years, they’ve been the gold standard in the paint industry, known for their unwavering commitment to quality, color accuracy, and overall performance. They are the Rolls Royce of the paint world! Seriously, if you want your project to look like it was done by a pro (even if you’re more of a “paint-by-numbers” kind of person), Benjamin Moore is a solid bet.

Enter ADVANCE: A Specialized Solution

Now, within the Benjamin Moore empire, lies a secret weapon, a specialized force to reckon with, a true marvel – the ADVANCE paint line. This isn’t your run-of-the-mill, slap-it-on-the-walls kind of paint. ADVANCE is designed for those projects that demand extra durability and a flawless finish. Think kitchen cabinets that can withstand daily wear and tear, doors that look like they were professionally sprayed, and trim that adds a touch of elegance to any room.

The Magic of ADVANCE: Durability Meets Convenience

So, what’s the big deal about ADVANCE? Well, it’s all about the unique combination of old-school toughness and modern convenience. It boasts alkyd-like durability, meaning it’s incredibly resistant to scratches, scuffs, and general abuse. But here’s the kicker: it’s a waterborne formula. Yes, you read that right! You get the benefits of an oil-based paint (like that rock-solid finish) without the hassle of harsh fumes, difficult cleanup, and lengthy drying times. It’s the best of both worlds! You can say goodbye to those harsh chemicals and hello to easy soap-and-water cleanup. Who wouldn’t love that?

Understanding Waterborne Alkyd Technology: It’s Not Your Grandpa’s Paint!

Okay, let’s talk paint science – but don’t worry, I promise to keep it interesting! First up, alkyd paints. Think of them as the OGs of durable coatings. Traditionally, these were your oil-based paints, known for their rock-solid finish and ability to stand up to some serious wear and tear. They’re like that trusty, slightly grumpy, but ultimately reliable uncle you know you can always count on.

But here’s the thing: oil-based paints are a bit of a hassle. They smell strongly, require mineral spirits for cleanup (hello, fumes!), and take forever to dry. Enter: waterborne alkyd technology! This is where things get exciting. Imagine taking that durable alkyd performance and marrying it with the ease and convenience of water-based paints. That’s exactly what waterborne alkyd is!

Basically, clever scientists figured out a way to suspend alkyd resins in water. The result? You get a paint that acts a lot like an oil-based alkyd in terms of hardness and finish, but cleans up with soap and water and has drastically lower Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs). Think of it as the best of both worlds. It’s like upgrading from a cranky old car to a sleek, modern hybrid that still packs a punch.

The Perks of Waterborne Alkyd

So, why should you care about all this paint chemistry mumbo jumbo? Because the advantages are pretty sweet:

Low VOCs: Say goodbye to that lingering paint smell! Low VOCs mean a healthier environment for you, your family, and even your pets. This is a huge win for anyone with sensitivities or allergies.
Easy Cleanup: Remember those days of wrestling with mineral spirits? Forget about it! Waterborne alkyds clean up with good old soap and water, making your life (and your brushes) a whole lot easier.
Durability: Don’t let the water-based formula fool you. These paints are tough cookies. They offer excellent resistance to scratches, scuffs, and everyday wear and tear, making them ideal for high-traffic areas like doors, trim, and cabinets.
Excellent flow and leveling properties: waterborne alkyds such as Benjamin Moore Advance provide a very smooth finish.

ADVANCE: Key Features and Performance Properties

Alright, let’s dive into what makes Benjamin Moore ADVANCE paint a total rockstar. It’s not just paint; it’s like a secret weapon for transforming your space, but only if you know how to wield it, right? So, we’re going to unpack all the juicy details – from its incredible performance properties to the best ways to put it to use around your house.

A. Performance Properties

Let’s talk about what this paint can do. We’re not just slapping color on a wall here, folks. We’re talking about some serious science.

Leveling: Ever painted something and ended up with brushstrokes that look like a tiny, angry toddler went to town? ADVANCE is the chill pill for that scenario. Its superior leveling action means the paint smooths itself out as it dries. Think of it as the paint equivalent of a self-leveling concrete – but way less messy and infinitely more colorful. You’ll get a finish so smooth, you’ll be tempted to lick it. (Please don’t lick it.)
Durability: We all have those high-traffic areas – hallways, kids’ rooms, the spot where the dog thinks the wall is a scratching post. ADVANCE is like a superhero shield for your surfaces. It’s tough as nails, offering exceptional resistance to wear, scratches, and scuffs. So, go ahead, live your life; this paint can handle it.
Adhesion: Paint that peels is like a bad breakup – nobody wants it. ADVANCE has amazing adhesion, which means it sticks to surfaces like a lovesick koala. Proper surface preparation is still key, but this paint is designed to really grab on and not let go, minimizing the risk of peeling or chipping.
Cure Time: Okay, this is the patience-testing part. Cure time isn’t the same as dry time. Dry time is when the paint is dry to the touch, but cure time is when it reaches its maximum hardness and durability. ADVANCE needs its full cure time to become the superhero we talked about earlier. Generally, we’re talking about several days to a few weeks, and factors like temperature and humidity can affect the process. Colder and more humid environment will increase the cure time. Rushing it is like trying to eat a cake before it’s baked – disappointing and potentially messy. So, be patient and let the magic happen.

B. Application and Use

Now, where can you unleash this painting prowess? The possibilities are pretty vast.

Interior Applications: Trim, doors, cabinets, and furniture – if it’s inside and needs a facelift, ADVANCE is generally your go-to. It’s especially awesome for cabinets because of its hardness and smooth finish.
Exterior Applications: While ADVANCE is fantastic, its exterior use is limited usually to doors and trim. Be mindful of the elements; harsh weather can be brutal on any paint. It will hold better when it’s protected from the sun.
Paint Finishes: Time to get shiny! ADVANCE comes in a range of sheen levels:
- Matte: Minimal sheen, great for hiding imperfections.
- Satin: A slight sheen, easy to clean, good for walls.
- Semi-Gloss: More sheen, very durable, excellent for trim and doors.
- High-Gloss: Maximum shine, super durable, use sparingly for dramatic effect.
Self-Priming: Can you skip the primer? Sometimes! ADVANCE has self-priming qualities, which can be huge time-saver. However, for raw wood, glossy surfaces, or if you’re making a drastic color change, you’ll still want a separate primer for optimal results. It’s better to be safe than sorry, right?

4. Preparing Surfaces for Painting with ADVANCE: The Foundation of Flawless

Alright, so you’ve decided to roll with Benjamin Moore ADVANCE – smart move! But even the fanciest paint needs a solid foundation to really shine. Think of it like building a house; you wouldn’t just slap the bricks on the dirt, right? Same goes for painting. Proper surface prep is key to getting that smooth, durable finish you’re dreaming of. Let’s dive into the nitty-gritty, shall we?

Surface Preparation: The Holy Trinity

This is where the elbow grease comes in, folks! We’re talking about the holy trinity of surface prep: cleaning, sanding, and repairing imperfections.

Cleaning: First things first, you gotta get rid of all the gunk, grime, and gremlins lurking on your surface. Use a mild detergent and water to scrub it down. For greasy areas, a degreaser might be your best friend. Rinse well and let it dry completely. Seriously, completely. Paint and moisture don’t mix!
Sanding: Now, for the fun part (okay, maybe not fun, but necessary!). Sanding creates a slightly rough surface, giving the paint something to grip onto. Use a medium-grit sandpaper to smooth out any existing imperfections and scuff up the surface. If you’re dealing with glossy surfaces, you might need a coarser grit to really get it prepped. After sanding, wipe away all the dust with a tack cloth. Dust is the enemy!
Repairing Imperfections: Got any holes, cracks, or dings? Now’s the time to fix ’em! Use a good-quality wood filler or spackle to patch up those imperfections. Let it dry completely, then sand it smooth so it blends seamlessly with the surrounding surface. No one wants to see lumpy patches under their beautiful new paint job!

Primers: Your Secret Weapon

Think of primer as the unsung hero of painting. It creates a uniform surface, blocks stains, and improves adhesion. But not all primers are created equal. Here’s a quick rundown:

Wood: For bare wood, a high-quality oil-based or latex primer is usually your best bet. It’ll seal the wood and prevent the paint from soaking in unevenly.
Metal: Metal surfaces need a rust-inhibitive primer to prevent corrosion. Make sure the primer is compatible with the type of metal you’re painting (ferrous or non-ferrous).
Previously Painted Surfaces: If you’re painting over an existing finish, an all-purpose primer is often sufficient. However, if you’re painting a light color over a dark color, a tinted primer can help you achieve better coverage.
Stain Blocking: Got some stubborn stains that just won’t quit? A stain-blocking primer is your superhero. It’ll prevent those stains from bleeding through your fresh coat of ADVANCE.
Adhesion Promotion: Painting a tricky surface like laminate or tile? An adhesion-promoting primer will help the paint stick like glue.

Tinting: Customizing Your Color

ADVANCE plays well with tints, allowing you to create a custom color that perfectly matches your vision. Just take your paint to your local Benjamin Moore retailer, and they’ll mix it up for you. Be sure to stir the paint thoroughly after tinting to ensure the color is evenly distributed.

Color Matching: Duplicate the Hue

Want to match an existing color? Benjamin Moore retailers have fancy gadgets that can scan a sample and create a matching formula. Bring in a sample of the color you want to match (a fabric swatch, a paint chip, whatever!), and they’ll whip up a custom batch of ADVANCE that’s a dead ringer. Magic!

5. Application Techniques for a Professional Finish: Unleashing Your Inner Picasso (Even if You Can Only Draw Stick Figures)

Okay, so you’ve chosen Benjamin Moore ADVANCE – smart move! Now, let’s talk about how to actually apply this liquid gold and transform your project from “meh” to “WOW!” Don’t worry, even if your artistic skills peaked in kindergarten, we’ll break down the best application methods to get a seriously professional-looking finish.

A. Application Methods: Choose Your Weapon!

Just like a superhero needs their trusty gadget, you need the right application method for the job. ADVANCE is versatile, so let’s explore your options:

Spraying: For the Smooth Operator

Imagine a finish so smooth, it’s like a baby’s… well, you get the picture. Spraying is the key! Here’s the lowdown:
- Suitable Sprayers: Airless sprayers are your best bet for larger projects. HVLP (High Volume Low Pressure) sprayers are great for finer finishes and detail work. Think furniture refinishing.
- Nozzle Sizes: Check your sprayer’s manual, but generally, a fine finish tip (around a 0.011″ – 0.013″) will give you that glass-like surface.
- Thinning: Thinning is crucial for proper atomization and to prevent clogs. Benjamin Moore recommends using their specific thinning products or distilled water in small increments. Always refer to the TDS for precise thinning ratios. Remember, a little goes a long way!
Brushing: The Classic Approach

Sometimes, you just can’t beat the feel of a brush in your hand. Perfect for trim, doors, or when you want more control.
- Brush Selection: Synthetic bristles are your friends here! They’re designed for waterborne paints like ADVANCE and will give you a smoother finish than natural bristles, which can get too soft and splay.
- Technique is Key: Load your brush evenly, don’t overload it. Use long, smooth strokes in the direction of the grain (if applicable). And remember, less is more! Avoid over-brushing, which can lead to unsightly brush marks.
Rolling: Covering Ground Efficiently

Great for larger, flatter surfaces like doors or cabinet panels. It’s all about the roller cover!
- Roller Cover Selection: A high-density foam roller or a short nap (1/4″ – 3/8″) microfiber roller will minimize stippling (that orange peel texture we all hate).
- Technique Tips: Apply even pressure and overlap each pass slightly. Avoid pressing too hard, which can create those dreaded roller marks.

B. Application Techniques: Secrets to Success

No matter which method you choose, these general best practices will elevate your project to the next level:

Maintain a Wet Edge: Work in sections and always overlap your previous stroke while it’s still wet. This prevents lap marks and ensures a seamless finish.
Thin Coats are Your Friend: Resist the urge to slather on a thick coat! Multiple thin coats are always better than one thick, drippy mess. They’ll dry faster, cure harder, and look much smoother.
Patience, Young Padawan: Don’t rush the process! Allow each coat to dry completely before applying the next. Check the TDS for recommended drying times.
Light Sanding Between Coats: After the first coat, lightly sand with fine-grit sandpaper (220-grit or higher) to knock down any imperfections. This will create a super-smooth surface for subsequent coats. Wipe away the dust before painting!
Avoid Over-Brushing/Over-Rolling: Once the paint is applied, leave it alone! Too much fiddling will only make things worse. Trust the paint to level out and do its thing.

Clean Up and Maintenance: Keeping Things Tidy (and Your Paint Job Looking Fab!)

Okay, you’ve transformed your kitchen cabinets, breathed new life into that tired old dresser, or given your trim the upgrade it deserves with Benjamin Moore ADVANCE. But the job’s not quite done until you’ve tackled the cleanup! Think of it as the encore after a killer performance. A messy cleanup can shorten the lifespan of your brushes and rollers, and nobody wants to throw away money.

The Grand Finale: Cleaning Your Tools

Since ADVANCE is a waterborne alkyd (remember, the cool hybrid?), cleaning is surprisingly easy. Ditch the harsh solvents; all you need is good old soap and water. Here’s the breakdown:

Brushes: First, wipe off any excess paint with a clean cloth or paper towel. Then, rinse the brush under warm running water until the water runs clear. Next, work in a bit of dish soap. Rinse thoroughly and reshape the bristles. Lay flat to dry, or hang upside down. (Nobody wants a droopy brush!)
Rollers: Remove the roller cover from the frame. Scrape off as much excess paint as possible (a five-in-one tool is your friend here). Rinse the cover under warm water, squeezing out the paint. Wash with soap and water, rinse again, and let it dry completely before storing. A clean roller cover ensures an even and smooth painting surface.
Sprayers: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning your specific sprayer model. This usually involves flushing the sprayer with water and a cleaning solution. Proper sprayer cleaning ensures it’s ready for your next big project and it prevents clogs, which cause uneven finishes.
The Golden Rule: Never let the paint dry on your brushes or rollers! Dried paint is a pain to remove, and it can ruin your tools. And, it can ruin your motivation to paint!

Maintaining Your Masterpiece:

You’ve put in the work, so let’s keep your painted surfaces looking fresh. Here are a few tips:

Gentle Cleaning: For routine cleaning, use a soft, damp cloth and mild soap. Avoid abrasive cleaners or scrub brushes, as they can dull the finish.
Spot Cleaning: For stubborn spots, try a magic eraser or a paste of baking soda and water. Test in an inconspicuous area first!
Touch-Ups: Keep a small amount of leftover paint on hand for touch-ups. Store it in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. A proper touch-up helps to conceal blemishes, and it prolongs the paint’s life.
Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Be careful with harsh chemicals or solvents near painted surfaces. They can damage the finish and cause discoloration.
Protect from Scratches: Use felt pads under furniture legs to prevent scratches.
Be Kind: Treat your painted surfaces with care, and they’ll reward you with years of beauty and durability!

Project Suitability, Cost, and Where to Buy: Is ADVANCE the Right Choice for You?

So, you’re intrigued by Benjamin Moore ADVANCE? Awesome! But before you dive in headfirst, let’s talk about whether it’s the perfect match for your next DIY adventure. Think of it like this: ADVANCE is a specialized tool, and like any good tool, it shines brightest when used for the right job.

Ideal Project Types for ADVANCE

This paint is a rockstar on surfaces that need to withstand some serious daily wear and tear. We’re talking about:

Kitchen Cabinets: Picture sleek, durable cabinets that can handle splashes, spills, and the occasional flying meatball. ADVANCE delivers a cabinet-grade finish that is unbelievably smooth and easy to clean!
Doors: Doors get a lot of action! Entryways, closets, even interior doors—ADVANCE holds up beautifully, resisting those pesky scuffs and fingerprints.
Trim: Baseboards, window casings, crown molding…this paint makes your trim look like it was professionally installed.
Furniture: Revamp that old dresser or side table with ADVANCE for a durable, long-lasting, factory-like finish. Seriously, it’ll look like you bought it brand new!

The key takeaway? If you want a smooth, durable, and beautiful finish on surfaces that see a lot of action, ADVANCE is your MVP.

The Cost of Excellence: Is ADVANCE Worth It?

Okay, let’s talk about the elephant in the room: cost. ADVANCE is definitely a premium paint, so it will cost you more upfront than your average, everyday latex paint. But before you click away, hear me out! Think of it as an investment, not just an expense.

Compared to other Benjamin Moore paints: ADVANCE sits in a higher price tier than some of their more basic lines, like Ben or Regal Select.
Compared to competitor products: It’s generally comparable in price to other high-end, specialized paints from brands like Sherwin-Williams.

So, why is it worth the extra dough? Durability, my friend, durability! ADVANCE is designed to last, saving you money in the long run because you won’t need to repaint as often. Plus, that smooth, furniture-like finish? Priceless!

Where to Find This Liquid Gold: Buying Benjamin Moore ADVANCE

Ready to take the plunge? Here’s where you can snag some ADVANCE paint:

Authorized Benjamin Moore Retailers: This is your best bet for expert advice and color matching. Use the Benjamin Moore website to find a retailer near you. Pro-Tip: these retailers can often offer color consultations to ensure you get the perfect shade.
Online Options: Some retailers may offer online ordering with in-store pickup or delivery. Be careful to ensure you are purchasing from an authorized retailer to ensure you’re getting the real deal and not a diluted or counterfeit product.

So there you have it! Everything you need to know about project suitability, cost, and where to buy Benjamin Moore ADVANCE. Happy painting!

Essential Resources: Your Paint Project’s Secret Weapons!

Alright, folks, we’ve covered a lot about Benjamin Moore ADVANCE paint – its silky-smooth finish, its fortress-like durability, and how to wield it like a pro. But before you go slinging paint like Jackson Pollock, there are two super important documents you absolutely must get acquainted with. Think of them as the cheat codes to unlocking ADVANCE’s full potential and keeping you safe while you’re at it. I am talking about the Technical Data Sheets(TDS) and Safety Data Sheets (SDS).

Diving Deep with Technical Data Sheets (TDS)

The TDS is your go-to guide for all the nitty-gritty details about ADVANCE paint. Seriously, this isn’t just some boring product description. It is the bible of paint. Need to know the ideal application temperature? It’s in there. Wondering about drying times? It’s in there. Curious about the VOC (Volatile Organic Compounds) content? You guessed it – it’s in there!

Think of the TDS as a recipe card for painting perfection. It provides detailed instructions on everything from surface preparation to the number of coats you should apply. Ignoring the TDS is like trying to bake a cake without reading the instructions – you might end up with a gooey mess (or worse, a paint job that peels faster than a sunburn). This document is crucial to ensure a quality paint job.

Staying Safe with Safety Data Sheets (SDS)

Now, let’s talk safety. The SDS is not exactly a page-turner, but it’s crucial for understanding the potential hazards associated with ADVANCE paint and how to protect yourself. It outlines everything from flammability to potential health effects, as well as first aid measures in case of an accident.

Think of the SDS as your personal bodyguard. It provides valuable information on the right personal protective equipment (PPE) to use, such as gloves and respirators, and how to handle the paint safely. So, before you even crack open that can of ADVANCE, take a few minutes to read the SDS and make sure you’re prepared to handle it responsibly. Safety first, friends!

Where to Find These Treasure Maps?

Online: Head to the Benjamin Moore website and search for the specific ADVANCE product you’re using. You’ll usually find links to both the TDS and SDS right on the product page.
At the Store: Your local Benjamin Moore retailer should also have these documents readily available, either in print or digitally. Don’t be shy – ask them for a copy!

So, there you have it! The TDS and SDS – your secret weapons for conquering your next painting project with Benjamin Moore ADVANCE. Read ’em, learn ’em, and paint like a pro (and stay safe while you’re at it!).

So, next time you’re thinking about giving your walls a fresh new look, maybe give Benjamin Moore’s Advance paint a shot. You might just be surprised at how easy it is to get that smooth, professional finish without all the hassle. Happy painting!