My question as a consumer who is trying to make an informed…

When dealing with paint cost is definitely a factor
but coverage also has to be considered.
A twenty dollar a gallon savings is not a savings
if you have to use more coats to get the same results.
This increases both the labor and materials needed.
Sherwin Williams paints are mixed to give the maximum
coverage per gallon . Two coats are recommended.
Most jobs require a quality primer to insure better
coverage and Finish no matter what brand you use.
The other factor in Sherwin Williams formula is able to stand
up to being cleaned.
Other less expensive brands will fade or even rub off if
you try to clean them.
To satisfy yourself you could get a small can of
each of the two brands and do a little test
painting on your own.
If the Sherwin Williams does not give a better finish
with less work then you know the other brand may be
just as good at first but you are still faced with how long it will
last.
If The painter has to apply more more costs they will need
to charge more for labor.
Paint contractors that guarantee their work will not use inexpensive
paint because they do not want to have to come back.
Sherwin Williams is worth the higher cost per gallon.
Your job should require one coat of primer and two coats of whatever brand you use.
A professional painter should be able to figure your entire job
within one gallon or less.
If you use an inferior paint and sign a contract for two coats
you may not be sastified with the results.
These figures are based on normal circumstances.
Not covering dark colors with light or textured areas.
I will be glad to answer any questions you may have.
Machinc
.