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Discover why Valspar Duramax Exterior paint from Lowe's stands out for homeowners. With superior adhesion, mildew resistance, and value pricing, it scores 72/100 in tests. We break down performance in key colors like Ultra White, Evening Blue, and Sage Green, plus pros, cons, and buying tips for long-lasting results.
Quick Pick
Valspar Duramax™ Exterior Paint
Our top recommendation for reliable, weather-resistant coverage on siding, trim, and more. Affordable at around $38/gallon with excellent mildew resistance—perfect for most homeowners. Available exclusively at Lowe's.
Exterior painting projects can make or break your home's curb appeal and longevity. In the world of 100% acrylic latex paints, Valspar Duramax Exterior—sold only at Lowe's—emerges as a strong contender. This paint is formulated for wood, siding, trim, masonry, and metal, delivering adhesion that grips tight even in rain, sun, and wind. Independent lab tests give it an overall score of 72 out of 100, outperforming the category average of 68.
Whether refreshing a faded fence or protecting new siding, Valspar Duramax offers practical performance without premium pricing. In this review, we'll dive into its real-world strengths, including coverage metrics, color retention data, and application advice, while highlighting tested shades like Ultra White, Evening Blue, and Sage Green.
Here's how Valspar Duramax stacks up against category benchmarks based on rigorous lab evaluations (scores out of 5 unless noted):
| Feature | Valspar Duramax | Category Average | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Overall Score | 72/100 | 68/100 | Above-average durability |
| Coverage (hiding power) | 4.2/5 | 3.8/5 | Two coats for optimal results |
| Adhesion | 4.9/5 | 4.1/5 | Excels on wood and metal |
| Blistering Resistance | 4.1/5 | 3.9/5 | Handles humidity well |
| Cracking Resistance | 3.4/5 | 3.6/5 | Solid but not elite |
| Color Retention (after 500 hrs UV) | 4.3/5 | 4.0/5 | Fades minimally |
| Mildew Resistance | 4.8/5 | 4.2/5 | Top-tier protection |
| Price per Gallon | ~$38 | ~$45 | Budget-friendly |
This table shows Valspar Duramax punching above its weight, especially in adhesion and mildew resistance—critical for humid or coastal areas.
Valspar Duramax isn't just another shelf paint; it's engineered for real-world abuse. Its 100% acrylic formula flows smoothly, leveling out brush marks for a pro finish. Testers noted it covers 350-400 sq ft per gallon, aligning with manufacturer claims, though porous surfaces like raw wood may need priming first.
For color-specific insights:
Pros:
Cons:
Overall, pros outweigh cons for value-driven projects under 1,000 sq ft.
Expect one to two coats for most jobs, drying to touch in 1 hour, recoat in 4.
Ideal for:
Skip if: You need ultra-premium crack resistance (e.g., stucco in earthquakes) or one-coat wonders.
Compared to pricier options, it saves 15-20% without sacrificing core protection—smart math for most.
Ready to paint? Head to Lowe's for Valspar Duramax in your shade.
Enhance your exterior project with these related guides:
For cleanup, don't forget Lowe's 30 Gallon Heavy Duty Brown Paper Lawn and Refuse Bags.
One to two coats suffice for most surfaces. Dark-to-light changes or porous materials may need 2.5, covering 350 sq ft/gallon effectively.
Yes, it's designed for wood, vinyl siding, trim, masonry, and primed metal. Always test adhesion on ferrous metals.
Absolutely—lab scores of 4.8/5 confirm top performance. Ideal for humid areas; no growth in extended tests.
Up to 5 years if stored at 40-90°F. Stir well before use.
Apply above 50°F for best adhesion. For cooler temps, opt for Valspar's cold-weather variant.
Excellent at 4.3/5; expect minimal fading for 5+ years with proper prep.
Valspar Duramax proves you don't need to overspend for solid exterior results. Your home deserves this protection—grab a gallon and transform today.
