Kelly-Moore Paints has built a strong reputation over decades as a trusted name among painters, contractors, and DIY homeowners. As a manufacturer known for its regional focus and commitment to quality, Kelly-Moore offers a wide array of paint products tailored for various needs—from durable exterior finishes to luxurious interior finishes. However, many consumers find themselves asking: What are the different grades of Kelly-Moore paint?
Understanding the distinctions between these grades is essential for making smart, cost-effective decisions in any painting project. In this detailed guide, we’ll explore the full spectrum of Kelly-Moore’s paint grades, helping you choose the best product for your walls, ceilings, trim, or exteriors.
Understanding Paint Grades: Quality, Price, and Performance
Before diving into Kelly-Moore’s specific paint lines, it’s important to understand what “grades” actually refer to in the paint industry. A paint’s grade encompasses several key elements:
- Quality of resins and binders – higher grades use more robust, flexible polymers for better durability and adhesion.
- Pigment concentration – premium paints often contain higher amounts of titanium dioxide and other high-performance pigments for superior coverage and color retention.
- Solids content – a higher percentage of solids means less water and less need for multiple coats.
- Washability and scrub resistance – important for high-traffic areas like kitchens and children’s rooms.
- Application and finish – how smooth the paint goes on, its drying time, and the final aesthetic appearance.
Kelly-Moore categorizes its paint into distinct tiers based on these factors. Each tier offers varying levels of performance, recommended applications, and price points.
Kelly-Moore Paint Grade Tiers: An Overview
Kelly-Moore organizes its product line into three main grades: Value, Mid-Grade, and Premium. Each caters to different customer needs and budgets, and all are available at Kelly-Moore retail stores in 49 U.S. states.
Here’s a breakdown of the structure:
| Grade Tier | Performance Level | Price Range | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Value (Budget) | Good for basic needs | $ | Low-traffic areas, tenants, rentals |
| Mid-Grade (Performance) | Reliable durability | $$ | Everyday homes, kitchens, living rooms |
| Premium (Professional) | Superior coverage, durability | $$$ | High-traffic areas, commercial spaces, long-term investments |
Now, let’s explore each tier in detail.
Grade 1: Value Series – Affordable Solutions for Basic Needs
Kelly-Moore’s Value series is designed for projects where budget is a primary concern. These paints may not offer the same longevity or richness as higher-tier paints, but they deliver reliable performance for short-term or low-exposure applications.
Kelly-Moore Kemura
Kemura is perhaps the most popular paint in Kelly-Moore’s value line and is often marketed as an economical alternative to top-tier brands. It is a hybrid water-based acrylic paint, offering a balance between durability and cost.
- Coverage: Achieves good coverage but may require two coats for darker walls or drastic color changes.
- Film durability: Resistant to moderate wear but not ideal for high-moisture areas like bathrooms.
- Sheen options: Available in flat, eggshell, satin, semi-gloss, and gloss finishes.
- Application: Easy to apply with brush, roller, or sprayer.
Best Uses: Rental properties, basements, garages, or rooms not exposed to heavy traffic or cleaning.
Although Kemura is a budget-friendly option, its hybrid formula gives it better adhesion than traditional budget paints. It’s also a favorite among contractors who paint multiple units and need a cost-effective, reliable product.
Kelly-Moore Paint Shield
Paint Shield is a specialty product in the value range, primarily designed as a high-hiding primer-sealer. It’s often used for painting over stained surfaces, wallpaper, or smoke-damaged walls.
Key Features:
- Excellent spot-hiding capabilities
- Fast-drying formula
- Can be used as a base coat before applying higher-grade finish paints
- Cost-effective undercoat solution for renovations and repairs
While not a finish paint, Paint Shield plays an essential role in completing a high-performance paint system when layered under paint from higher tiers.
Grade 2: Mid-Grade Series – Balanced Performance and Value
Kelly-Moore’s mid-grade category serves the needs of homeowners seeking solid performance without paying a premium price. These paints strike a balance between affordability and long-term durability, making them ideal for most interior living areas.
Kelly-Moore Sanitrol
Sanitrol stands out in the mid-tier for its unique antimicrobial and mildew-resistant properties. Originally developed for healthcare and educational environments, it’s now widely used in homes with children, bathrooms, or moisture-prone areas.
Features and Benefits:
- Inhibits the growth of mold and mildew on the paint film surface
- FDA-approved antimicrobial additives make it safe for hospitals and schools
- Resistant to scrubbing and cleaning—holds up well with damp cloths or standard cleaners
- Low VOC (volatile organic compounds) content
- Available in flat, eggshell, satin, and semi-gloss finishes
Sanitrol is especially popular in humid climates or homes with poor ventilation. It’s a trusted choice for kitchens, bathrooms, and children’s bedrooms where cleanliness matters.
Kelly-Moore AcryShield
AcryShield is another important product in the mid-tier range, offering strong performance for both interior and exterior use. It’s a 100% acrylic latex paint, meaning it has high flexibility and excellent adhesion.
Key Advantages:
- Superior fade resistance – ideal for sun-exposed walls
- Good coverage in one or two coats depending on substrate
- Can be applied in a range of temperatures (down to 35°F)
- Resists cracking and peeling, even in fluctuating weather conditions
AcryShield works well on stucco, wood, metal, and masonry surfaces, providing a robust solution for porches, siding, and exterior trim. Its balanced formula makes it a reliable choice for homeowners looking for weather-resistant performance without stepping into the premium tier.
Kelly-Moore Trim Enamel
Trim Enamel is a water-based alkyd hybrid paint, engineered specifically for doors, trim, cabinets, and baseboards. While not as high-end as fully oil-based enamels, it delivers a hard, durable finish with a smooth application.
Why Choose Trim Enamel?
- Dries to a tough, chip-resistant film
- Available in semi-gloss and gloss sheens
- Self-leveling for a professional appearance
- Low odor and VOCs compared to oil-based alternatives
It’s a go-to option for contractors working on renovations or new construction projects where a durable finish is needed on high-contact architectural features.
Kelly-Moore Low VOC Interior Latex
Kelly-Moore offers a line of low-VOC latex paints specifically formulated for homeowners concerned about indoor air quality. These paints are water-based and use environmentally friendly resins.
Despite the lower VOC levels, performance remains strong:
– Good washability
– Minimal odor during and after application
– Wide range of available colors
This product fits well in nurseries, bedrooms, or homes with allergy-sensitive occupants. It also aligns with green building standards, making it popular in eco-conscious renovations.
Grade 3: Premium Series – Professional-Grade Performance
For those seeking top-tier durability, exceptional coverage, and a long-lasting finish, Kelly-Moore’s premium paints deliver professional results. These products are often used by professional painters and high-end contractors, especially in new construction, luxury homes, or commercial projects.
Kelly-Moore AquaLuxe
AquaLuxe is Kelly-Moore’s flagship interior paint and represents the peak of their innovation in acrylic technology. Designed for maximum performance, it offers features typically found in luxury paint brands.
Highlights of AquaLuxe:
- Uses advanced silane technology for enhanced cross-linking of the polymer film—increasing strength, flexibility, and stain resistance
- Self-priming on most clean, dry surfaces
- Superior hide—can often cover in a single coat on light-colored walls
- Highly scrub-resistant (rated over 20,000 scrubs on standardized tests)
- Zero VOCs and minimal odor—safe for occupied homes
AquaLuxe is ideal for living rooms, hallways, dining rooms, and other high-traffic areas. Its smooth application and rich finish give walls a sophisticated, “painter’s choice” look that homeowners love.
With AquaLuxe, you’re not just painting—you’re investing in long-term beauty and protection.
Kelly-Moore Ultima II Exterior
When it comes to exterior protection, Ultima II stands out as Kelly-Moore’s premier outdoor paint. It’s a 100% acrylic formula engineered for extreme weather resistance.
Why Contractors Recommend Ultima II:
- Exceptional flexibility—moves with the surface during temperature changes, reducing cracking
- Resists peeling, blistering, and fading even in direct sun
- Superior chalk resistance
- Excellent water and moisture barrier properties
- Maintains color integrity for up to a decade in many conditions
Used across California, the Southwest, and other sun-heavy regions, Ultima II is trusted not only for its longevity but also for its vibrant finish retention. It’s often applied on stucco, wood siding, and metal surfaces and holds up well in both dry and humid climates.
Ultima II is also mildew-resistant, which is especially important in coastal areas prone to salt air and fog.
Kelly-Moore Elegance
Elegance is a premium interior paint with a soft, luxurious finish. It’s often described as having a velvet-like appearance in flat and eggshell sheens. Elegance is favored in upscale residential interiors and boutique commercial spaces.
Key Features:
- Superior hide and coverage—reduces the need for multiple coats
- Smudge-proof and dirt-resistant—great for homes with children and pets
- Easy to apply—flows and levels well, minimizing roller marks
- Highly durable—stands up to frequent cleaning
Available in multiple sheens from flat to semi-gloss, Elegance is ideal for formal living areas, media rooms, and offices where a refined look is desired. Its ability to conceal imperfections in drywall makes it a favorite among professional painters.
Specialty and Functional Paint Lines
Beyond the core grades, Kelly-Moore offers several specialty paints that serve unique purposes. These can complement higher-grade paints or stand alone in specific applications.
Kelly-Moore Drywall Primer
A must-use product for new construction or drywall repairs. This fast-drying primer seals porous surfaces, ensuring even paint absorption and optimal adhesion for finish coats.
Benefits:
– Prevents patchy finishes
– Improves durability of top coat
– Reduces paint consumption due to better absorption control
Use Drywall Primer before applying any grade of paint, especially in new homes or walls with filled joints.
Kelly-Moore Wood Primer (Oil-Based and Water-Based Options)
For painting bare or stained wood, Kelly-Moore offers both oil-based and water-based primers.
Oil-based primers:
– Seal tannins and knots in wood
– Prevent bleed-through on pine and redwood
– Provide excellent adhesion
Water-based primers:
– Lower odor
– Faster drying
– Easier cleanup
– Suitable for interior woodwork
These are often used in conjunction with paints like AcryShield or Trim Enamel.
Kelly-Moore Stain Blockers and Repair Products
Among the standout specialty products are:
- KM-100 Stain Block Primer – seals water stains, smoke damage, and grease
- KM-1100 Multi-Purpose Caulk – used around trim and windows for a clean, sealed finish
These support the performance of higher-grade paints by ensuring underlying problems are addressed before painting.
How to Choose the Right Kelly-Moore Paint Grade for Your Project
Selecting the right paint isn’t just about color—it’s about matching the product to the environment, usage, and longevity requirements. Here’s how to pick the best grade:
Consider the Room Usage
- Living Rooms & Bedrooms: Mid-grade (Sanitrol, Low VOC) or Premium (Elegance, AquaLuxe) for a balance of durability and aesthetics.
- Kitchens & Bathrooms: Mid to Premium grades with mildew resistance (Sanitrol, AquaLuxe) due to moisture exposure.
- Children’s Rooms: High-scrub resistance paints like AquaLuxe or Trim Enamel for easy cleaning.
- Halls & Entryways: Premium paints with high durability due to frequent traffic.
Consider the Exterior Environment
- Hot, sunny climates: Ultima II Exterior for UV and heat resistance.
- Humid or coastal areas: Choose mildew-resistant and moisture-blocking paints like Ultima II or AcryShield.
- Wood siding: A full 100% acrylic paint ensures flexibility and longevity.
Budget vs. Long-Term Value
While lower-grade paints reduce upfront cost, they may require more frequent touch-ups or repainting. In contrast, investing in a premium paint like AquaLuxe or Ultima II often pays off in fewer repaints over time—especially in high-use areas.
For example:
– Painting a rental unit? Kemura + Paint Shield might be cost-effective.
– Painting a family home you plan to stay in for 10+ years? AquaLuxe or Ultima II offers substantial savings over time.
Why Kelly-Moore Paints Are a Regional Favorite
Unlike national mass-market brands, Kelly-Moore maintains a strong regional presence with locally owned stores and trained color consultants. This allows them to:
- Formulate paints suited to local climates (e.g., resisting dry heat in Arizona or humidity in Texas)
- Offer custom tinting and color matching services
- Provide knowledgeable in-person advice not found in big-box stores
This grassroots model enables Kelly-Moore to deliver high-quality, regionally optimized solutions—something that larger chains often lack.
Final Thoughts: Choosing the Best Kelly-Moore Grade for You
Understanding the different grades of Kelly-Moore paint empowers you to make choices that align with your needs, budget, and expectations for longevity. Whether you’re painting a single bedroom or re-coating the entire exterior of your home, there’s a Kelly-Moore solution designed for it.
From the economical Kemura and Paint Shield in the value tier, to the dependable Sanitrol and AcryShield in the mid-grade range, up to the high-performance AquaLuxe and Ultima II in the premium category—each grade serves a specific purpose.
Pro Tip: Always use a primer matched to your substrate, and consider upgrading to a higher-grade paint in areas with high humidity, traffic, or exposure to sunlight. The extra cost upfront can mean a decade of trouble-free walls instead of five years of maintenance.
With Kelly-Moore’s commitment to quality, innovation, and customer service, choosing the right paint grade isn’t just about color—it’s about protecting and enhancing your space for years to come.
What are the main paint grades offered by Kelly-Moore?
Kelly-Moore offers a range of paint grades designed to suit various needs, from basic interior touch-ups to premium finishes for high-traffic areas. The primary product lines include Economy, Mid-Grade, and Premium grades. Economy-grade paints, such as KM-100, are ideal for low-traffic or infrequently used rooms where performance and durability are less critical. These formulations typically have lower levels of pigment and binders, which translates to less coverage and the need for additional coats.
Mid-grade options like Designer’s Choice and Presidio offer improved washability, durability, and coverage, making them suitable for most residential applications, including living rooms and hallways. These paints balance cost and performance, delivering a smoother finish and better resistance to wear. At the top of the tier is the Ultra Premium grade, exemplified by products like MoorGlo and MoorLife. These high-performance paints feature enhanced tint strength, superior scrubbability, and excellent hide, ideal for kitchens, bathrooms, and commercial environments.
How does the economy-grade paint from Kelly-Moore compare to higher grades?
Economy-grade Kelly-Moore paints, such as KM-100, are designed as cost-effective solutions for budget-conscious consumers. These paints typically have lower concentrations of resin and pigments, which can result in thinner consistency, reduced opacity, and the need for multiple coats to achieve full coverage. While suitable for basic interior walls in low-traffic areas like closets or storage rooms, they are not ideal for high-moisture or high-wear environments.
Compared to mid and premium grades, economy paints offer minimal resistance to scrubbing and fading over time. They also tend to have limited sheen options—usually flat or matte finishes—and may not be as uniform in application. However, their affordability makes them a practical choice for temporary use or DIY projects where long-term durability isn’t a priority. They are best utilized when appearance and longevity are secondary concerns.
What are the benefits of choosing a mid-grade Kelly-Moore paint?
Mid-grade Kelly-Moore paints, such as Presidio and Designer’s Choice, offer significant improvements in quality and performance over economy options without the higher price tag of ultra-premium lines. These paints typically feature greater pigment concentration and better binders, resulting in improved hide, smoother application, and more consistent finishes. Available in a wider range of sheens—satin, eggshell, and semi-gloss—they provide flexibility for living rooms, bedrooms, and hallways.
Durability is another major advantage, as mid-grade formulations are more washable and resistant to everyday wear and tear. They maintain their appearance longer and are easier to clean, making them ideal for homes with children or pets. Additionally, their enhanced adhesion and mildew resistance make them suitable for moderate-humidity areas like bathrooms and kitchens when applied correctly. This balance of performance, price, and application ease makes mid-grade paints a popular choice for many homeowners.
What sets Kelly-Moore’s ultra-premium paint grades apart?
Kelly-Moore’s ultra-premium paint lines, such as MoorGlo, MoorLife, and Diamond Brite, are engineered for maximum durability, superior finish, and exceptional coverage. These formulations use high-quality resins, advanced pigments, and additives that enhance scrub resistance, fade resistance, and moisture protection. The result is a finish that not only looks professional but can withstand heavy use and frequent cleaning, even in demanding environments.
In addition to improved performance, ultra-premium grades offer rich, consistent color with excellent hide, often requiring only one or two coats for full coverage. Features like self-priming properties, low VOC emissions, and enhanced flow and leveling make application easier and more environmentally friendly. These paints are particularly recommended for commercial buildings, kitchens, bathrooms, and exteriors exposed to harsh weather, providing long-term value through extended maintenance cycles and superior aesthetics.
How do Kelly-Moore’s exterior paint grades differ from interior ones?
Kelly-Moore formulates its exterior paint grades to withstand environmental stressors such as UV exposure, temperature fluctuations, rain, and wind. Products like MoorLife Exterior and Diamond Brite are designed specifically for outdoor use, featuring enhanced binders that resist cracking, peeling, and fading over time. These paints also contain mildewcides to combat fungal growth in humid climates and are available in finishes like satin and semi-gloss for added water resistance.
In contrast, interior paint grades prioritize washability, low odor, and ease of application within climate-controlled spaces. While some mid and premium interior lines may have moisture resistance, they lack the robust protective properties of exterior formulations. Using an interior paint outside can lead to premature deterioration. Kelly-Moore recommends always matching the paint grade and product line to the intended environment to ensure longevity and optimal performance.
Can Kelly-Moore paint grades be used in commercial applications?
Yes, certain Kelly-Moore paint grades are well-suited for commercial applications, especially the ultra-premium lines such as Diamond Brite and MoorLife. These products are formulated with high durability, exceptional scrub resistance, and excellent film integrity, making them ideal for high-traffic areas like office buildings, schools, hospitals, and retail spaces. Their ability to retain color and finish under constant use reduces the need for frequent repainting, lowering long-term maintenance costs.
Commercial environments also benefit from the low VOC and low-odor characteristics of these premium paints, which contribute to better indoor air quality and minimize disruption during application. Kelly-Moore’s commercial-grade paints adhere well to a variety of substrates, including drywall, wood, and metal, when properly primed. Contractors often choose these lines for projects requiring both professional results and compliance with environmental and safety standards.
How do paint sheens correlate with Kelly-Moore’s different grades?
Paint sheen options vary across Kelly-Moore’s paint grades, reflecting each product’s intended use and performance level. Economy-grade paints are generally limited to flat or matte finishes, which help conceal surface imperfections but are less durable and harder to clean. Mid-grade paints offer a broader range, including eggshell, satin, and semi-gloss, providing increased sheen, better moisture resistance, and improved washability for frequently used areas.
Ultra-premium grades deliver the fullest selection of sheens, optimized for both aesthetics and function. High-gloss finishes are available for trim, doors, and cabinetry in these lines, offering maximum durability and ease of cleaning. The advanced formulations ensure that higher-sheen finishes don’t compromise on application ease or film smoothness. Choosing the right sheen within a grade allows consumers to balance visual appeal with practical performance based on the room’s function and traffic level.