Is Paint just paint? Or is there More?

Aura Paint vs. Ultra Spec Paint: Understanding Solids Content and Why It Matters

When it comes to choosing high-quality paint, professionals and DIYers alike consider several factors—durability, coverage, finish, and cost. One of the most critical yet often overlooked aspects of paint quality is its solids content. This factor significantly impacts how well the paint performs, how many coats are needed, and its long-term durability.

In this article, we will compare the amount of solids used in making Benjamin Moore Aura Paint versus Ultra Spec Paint, explain how solids affect paint performance, and why this matters for contractors, homeowners, and businesses.

What Are Paint Solids?

Paint consists of four primary components:

1. Pigments – Provide color and coverage
2. Binders (Resins) – Help paint adhere and provide durability
3. Solvents (Liquids) – Keep paint in a liquid state until application
4. Additives – Improve specific performance features, such as mildew resistance

When paint dries, the solvents evaporate, leaving behind the solids, which include pigments and binders. The more solids a paint has, the thicker the protective film it forms, leading to better coverage, durability, and longevity.

Solids content is typically measured as a percentage:

• Higher Solids Content = Higher Quality Paint
• Lower Solids Content = Thinner, Less Durable Paint

Now, let’s compare Aura Paint and Ultra Spec Paint based on their solids content.

Solids Content in Aura Paint vs. Ultra Spec Paint

Benjamin Moore manufactures both Aura and Ultra Spec, but they are designed for different markets:

• Aura Paint is Benjamin Moore’s premium paint line, known for its exceptional durability, coverage, and color richness.
• Ultra Spec Paint is a professional-grade line meant for commercial applications where cost-effectiveness and efficiency are priorities.

Here’s how they compare in terms of solids content:

What This Means

• Aura has a higher volume solids percentage than Ultra Spec, meaning it leaves behind more material after drying, leading to better coverage and a thicker, more durable paint film.
• Ultra Spec has a lower solids content, making it more affordable but requiring more coats to achieve the same coverage and durability as Aura.

Why Solids Content Matters in Paint Performance

Now that we understand the difference in solids content between Aura and Ultra Spec, let’s explore why this matters when selecting paint.

1. Coverage & Hiding Power

• Higher solids content = better coverage per coat
• Lower solids content = more coats required

Aura’s higher solids mean it provides superior coverage in fewer coats, often requiring just one or two coats, even for drastic color changes. Ultra Spec, with its lower solids, may require additional coats to achieve the same opacity.

Example:

• If you are painting a red wall with white paint, Aura will cover in fewer coats compared to Ultra Spec.
• Ultra Spec may require 3+ coats, increasing labor time and paint consumption.

2. Durability & Longevity

Paint with higher solids forms a thicker, more protective film, which results in:

• Better resistance to wear and tear
• Enhanced washability (important for kitchens, hallways, and high-traffic areas)
• Increased lifespan before repainting is needed

Aura is ideal for homes, upscale businesses, and luxury projects where long-term durability is a must. Ultra Spec, while still durable, may not hold up as well under frequent cleaning or heavy traffic.

3. Color Richness & Depth

Because Aura contains more pigments and higher-quality resins, it provides deeper, richer colors that are truer to their swatch appearance. Aura also features Color Lock® Technology, preventing fading over time.

Ultra Spec, with its lower solids content, is a great option for commercial jobs where a wide range of colors is needed, but it may not have the same vibrancy or fade resistance as Aura.

4. Application & Labor Costs

• Fewer coats = Less labor
• More coats = More time and cost

While Aura is more expensive per gallon, it saves on labor costs because it covers better with fewer coats. In contrast, Ultra Spec is more affordable per gallon but may require more product and labor to achieve the desired results.

Example:
For a contractor bidding on a high-end residential project, Aura may be the better investment due to its time savings and long-term durability. However, for a large commercial building, Ultra Spec may be the preferred choice to keep costs lower.

When to Use Aura vs. Ultra Spec

Choose Aura Paint If:

✔ You want premium durability and long-term performance
✔ You need rich, fade-resistant colors
✔ You want exceptional coverage with fewer coats
✔ You’re painting high-end residential or luxury commercial spaces

Choose Ultra Spec Paint If:

✔ You need cost-effective paint for large projects
✔ You’re working on commercial or rental properties
✔ You need fast application without premium durability concerns
✔ You’re painting less critical areas like warehouses or storage rooms

Final Thoughts: Solids Content Determines Paint Quality

While many factors affect paint performance, solids content is one of the most important. The higher solids content in Aura Paint makes it more durable, better covering, and longer lasting, while Ultra Spec is a budget-friendly choice for high-volume commercial jobs where cost efficiency is the priority.

If you’re a contractor, designer, or homeowner, knowing the difference can help you choose the right paint for your project, ensuring better results, longer-lasting finishes, and optimized costs.

For high-end projects where longevity and quality matter, Aura is the superior choice. However, for commercial and large-scale jobs, Ultra Spec is a cost-effective solution that still provides good performance.

Have questions about paint selection?

Let us know in the comments or reach out to your local Benjamin Moore dealer for expert advice!

By linking to this article, you’re helping more people understand the science behind high-quality paint and make better-informed decisions for their projects!