Key Takeaway
When we paint bathrooms, we typically offer two paint choices. Choose Duration Home® if you want dependable moisture resistance, washability, and a good balance of performance and price. Choose Emerald® Interior if you want Sherwin-Williams’ top-tier paint with maximum durability, mildew resistance, and long-lasting beauty — especially for master bathrooms or poorly ventilated spaces.
Why Bathroom Paint Choice Matters
Moisture is the biggest enemy of a lasting paint job. In bathrooms, steam from showers, splashes around sinks and tubs, and frequent cleaning all create conditions that can cause ordinary paints to peel, bubble, fade, or grow mildew. Without the right product, even a fresh paint job can start failing in just a few years.
That’s why choosing the correct bathroom paint isn’t just about color — it’s about protecting your walls and ceilings from one of the harshest environments inside your home. Sherwin-Williams offers two standout lines for this challenge: Duration Home® and Emerald® Interior. Both are formulated to resist humidity and regular scrubbing, but they serve different needs depending on your budget, bathroom type, and long-term expectations.
Quick Comparison: Duration vs. Emerald
| Feature | Duration Home® | Emerald® Interior |
|---|---|---|
| Moisture & Mildew Resistance | Excellent — formulated for humid spaces | Superior — strongest in Sherwin-Williams line |
| Washability | Highly washable and scrubbable | Maximum washability, resists stains better |
| Color Retention | Very good over years of use | Exceptional — holds color longer under stress |
| Best For | Family bathrooms, guest baths, budget-conscious projects | Master baths, luxury finishes, poorly ventilated bathrooms |
| Typical Price | $75–$80 per gallon | $95–$105 per gallon |
| Lifespan | 8–10 years in bathrooms | 10+ years in bathrooms |
When to Choose Duration
Duration Home® is your best bet when:
- You want strong performance without premium pricing.
- You’re painting a guest bathroom or kids’ bathroom that sees steady use but doesn’t need luxury-level finishes.
- Your bathroom has decent ventilation, reducing extreme moisture exposure.
- You’re doing a quick refresh project and want reliable results without overspending.
When to Choose Emerald
Emerald® Interior is worth the upgrade when:
- You’re painting a master bathroom that gets daily heavy use.
- Your bathroom lacks ventilation and needs the strongest mildew resistance available.
- You want the deepest, most vibrant color retention and stain resistance.
- You’re treating the bathroom as a long-term investment and don’t want to repaint for a decade or more.
Which Bathroom Paint Should You Choose?
The choice depends on your bathroom’s needs:
- For budget-conscious projects or secondary bathrooms: Duration offers all the essentials at a lower cost.
- For high-end or high-moisture spaces: Emerald provides peace of mind and the longest-lasting finish.
- If you’re on the fence: Duration is a safe and reliable pick — but if your bathroom struggles with steam or you want the very best, Emerald is the upgrade worth considering.
Tips for Getting the Best Results
- Use satin or semi-gloss sheens for bathrooms — these finishes repel moisture better and are easier to clean.
- Always clean and prime problem areas (glossy surfaces, stains, or raw drywall) before painting.
- Invest in quality tools — a good angled brush and microfiber roller help achieve a smooth, durable finish.
- Don’t rush cure time. Let the paint harden 24–48 hours before exposing it to heavy steam or cleaning.
FAQ
Is Emerald always better than Duration for bathrooms?
Emerald outperforms Duration in durability, washability, and mildew resistance. However, Duration is still excellent and costs less, making it the better choice for many households.
Can I mix Duration in one bathroom and Emerald in another?
Yes. Many homeowners use Emerald in their master bathroom and Duration in guest or kids’ bathrooms to balance performance and budget.
Which lasts longer in a bathroom?
Duration typically lasts 8–10 years, while Emerald can last 10+ years if applied properly.
Do I need a special primer with these paints?
If you’re painting over glossy or stained surfaces, use a bonding or stain-blocking primer. Otherwise, both paints cover well without primer on previously painted walls.
Conclusion
The best paint for your bathroom depends on your priorities. Choose Duration when you want reliable performance at a fair price for secondary bathrooms. Choose Emerald when you want the absolute best — especially in master baths, luxury remodels, or moisture-heavy environments. Both options are designed for bathrooms and will outperform standard paints, but Emerald is the premium pick for homeowners who want maximum peace of mind.