benjamin moore color codes

Benjamin Moore Color Codes: Find Perfect Paints

By Joshua Thomas
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Benjamin Moore, a renowned name in the paint industry, has been providing high-quality paints and stains for over 135 years. One of the ways they ensure consistency and accuracy in their products is by using a standardized color coding system. This system allows professionals and DIY enthusiasts alike to identify and match colors across their extensive range of products.

Benjamin Moore's color codes are a unique combination of numbers and letters that correspond to specific colors within their palette. Understanding these codes can help you make informed decisions when selecting paints for your projects, ensuring a consistent and cohesive look throughout your space.

Understanding Benjamin Moore Color Codes

Benjamin Moore's color codes are composed of three parts: a color family identifier, a color number, and a finish code. Let's break down each component to help you understand how to read and use these codes.

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Benjamin Moore Color Palette — Highlands & Caldwell & More Paint Colors
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1. **Color Family Identifier**: This is a letter that indicates the color family or group. For example, 'AF' might represent a light blue-green hue, while 'AF-20' could be a slightly darker shade within the same family.

Color Families

Benjamin Moore has organized their colors into families, making it easier to find coordinating shades. Some of their color families include:

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  • AF - Aqua Green
  • C - Cream
  • HC - Historic Colors
  • MC - Moore Classic

Color Numbers

The color number is the main identifier for a specific shade. It ranges from 01 to 999, with each number representing a unique color. For instance, 'AF-20' is a different shade than 'AF-21', even though they belong to the same color family.

Finish Codes

The finish code indicates the type of paint finish you're looking at. Benjamin Moore offers a variety of finishes, including eggshell, satin, semi-gloss, and high-gloss. Understanding these codes can help you choose the right finish for your project.

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1. **Eggshell (E)**: A low-sheen finish that's ideal for walls and ceilings. It's easy to clean and hides minor imperfections.

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2. **Satin (S)**: A medium-sheen finish that's great for trim, doors, and cabinets. It's more durable and easier to clean than eggshell.

3. **Semi-Gloss (SG)**: A high-sheen finish that's perfect for trim, cabinets, and furniture. It's very durable and easy to clean.

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4. **High-Gloss (HG)**: The most durable and easiest to clean finish, high-gloss is ideal for trim, cabinets, and furniture. It has a very shiny, reflective surface.

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the colors of paint are shown in this advertisement for benjamin moore's color trend 2055
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Example of a Benjamin Moore Color Code

Let's take 'HC-153' as an example. 'HC' stands for Historic Colors, '153' is the color number, and there's no finish code, which means it's an eggshell finish by default.

When you're at your local Benjamin Moore store or browsing their website, you can use these color codes to find the perfect shade for your project. Don't hesitate to ask their knowledgeable staff for assistance if you need help decoding these codes or choosing the right color.

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In the world of paint, Benjamin Moore's color codes are like a secret language that unlocks a universe of possibilities. By understanding and using these codes, you can navigate their extensive palette with confidence, ensuring that your space looks exactly as you envisioned it. So go ahead, explore the Benjamin Moore color spectrum, and let your creativity guide you.

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