When you walk into a hardware store, you’re greeted by rows of paint cans, each promising to transform your space with a splash of color. However, most people don’t realize that the color code on these cans is more than just a random assortment of numbers and letters.
This code is a crucial piece of information that can help you make informed decisions about your paint choices. Understanding these codes can save you time, money, and ensure you get the exact shade you desire.
Understanding the Basics of Paint Can Labels
Paint can labels are designed to provide essential information about the product inside. Beyond the brand name and color swatch, labels typically include details such as:
Type of paint (e.g., interior, exterior, primer, etc.)
Finish (e.g., matte, eggshell, satin, semi-gloss, gloss)
Volume (e.g., 1 quart, 1 gallon)
Tint base (used for mixing custom colors)
Color code – a unique identifier for the specific shade and formula
The color code is often overlooked, despite being a key identifier for the specific shade and formulation of the paint. This code ensures that you can find the exact color again in the future—even if the color name changes or is discontinued.
The Importance of Color Codes in Paint Selection
Color codes are essential for anyone looking to achieve a precise color match. Whether you’re touching up a wall, repainting a room, or coordinating across multiple surfaces, the color code ensures consistency. This is especially important for:
Professional painters and designers
Large-scale renovations
Matching existing painted surfaces
Custom mixing at paint stores
Without these codes, achieving a seamless look across different batches or brands would be nearly impossible.
Decoding the Color Code: What It Really Means
A typical paint color code might look like B12-34, SW 6789, or HC-154. These codes are not arbitrary. They follow a specific system based on the manufacturer’s naming convention. Here’s how to read them:
What to Look For in a Color Code:
Brand Prefix: Identifies the manufacturer (e.g., SW for Sherwin-Williams, BM for Benjamin Moore, V for Valspar)
Series Number or Name: Refers to the color collection or theme (e.g., HC for “Historical Colors”)
Unique Color Identifier: The actual code that maps to a specific shade (e.g., 6789, 2135-10, etc.)
Example Breakdown:
SW 7008 (Sherwin-Williams “Alabaster”)
SW = Sherwin-Williams
7008 = Specific color identifier
BM HC-154 (Benjamin Moore “Hale Navy”)
BM = Benjamin Moore
HC = Historical Colors Collection
154 = Unique number for the color
PPG1041-4 (PPG “Blue Tang”)
PPG = PPG Paints
1041 = Base color group
-4 = Specific shade within that group
Popular Paint Color Codes by Brand
Here are some popular and commonly used color codes from major paint brands:
SW 7008 – Alabaster (Sherwin-Williams): A soft, warm white popular for interiors
BM OC-117 – Simply White (Benjamin Moore): Clean, bright white used in modern spaces
BM HC-154 – Hale Navy (Benjamin Moore): A deep navy blue with classic appeal
SW 6204 – Sea Salt (Sherwin-Williams): Muted green-gray with a calming effect
PPG1041-4 – Blue Tang (PPG): Bold and energizing blue
Behr 790C-2 – Swiss Coffee (Behr): Warm white favored for cozy environments
Valspar 2006-10B – Homestead Resort Parlor Taupe: Elegant neutral with historical roots
Farrow & Ball No. 2005 – All White: Premium clean white for modern homes
Dunn-Edwards DEW380 – Whisper: Soft, subtle white for versatile use
Glidden GLN6211 – Antique White: Warm off-white with traditional charm
The History Behind Paint Can Color Codes
see continuation on next page
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