The definitive guide to local shopping; methodically researched, updated daily.

May 8, 2024
A paint store employee helps a homeowner pick out new interior paint for his home from paint samples.

How to Find Good Paint Stores in Marin County

Once you decide to repaint the interior or exterior of your home, you'll need to find good paint stores in San Rafael and all of Marin County. Remember that cheap paint stores are not always the paint stores. Some good paint stores in Marin County have a better selection of colors and more paint brands.

The following research by The Prime Buyer's Report identifies the best paint stores in Marin County and issues related to buying paint and painting supplies.

 

The TOP 10 Paint Stores in Marin County CA

The TOP 10 Paint Stores in Marin County CA

Tamalpais Paint & Color, Inc.

  • Tamalpais Paint & Color, Inc. Profile
  • Tamalpais Paint & Color, Inc. Scorecard
  • Tamalpais Paint & Color, Inc. Reviews
  • Tamalpais Paint & Color, Inc. Photos
  • Tamalpais Paint & Color, Inc. Brands
  • Tamalpais Paint & Color, Inc. Articles
  • Tamalpais Paint & Color, Inc. Offers
(415) 924-7321
30 Tamalpais Dr
Corte Madera, CA 94925

Areas Served: Mill Valley, San Rafael, Novato, San Anselmo, Fairfax CA, Woodacre,…
Key Brands: Behr Paint, Duron Paint, Sherwin Williams, Dunn Edwards, Dutch Boy…

Orchard Supply Hardware

  • Orchard Supply Hardware Profile
  • Orchard Supply Hardware Scorecard
  • Orchard Supply Hardware Reviews
  • Orchard Supply Hardware Photos
  • Orchard Supply Hardware Brands
  • Orchard Supply Hardware Articles
  • Orchard Supply Hardware Offers
(415) 453-7288
1151 Andersen Drive
San Rafael, CA 94901

Sherwin-Williams Co

  • Sherwin-Williams Co Profile
  • Sherwin-Williams Co Scorecard
  • Sherwin-Williams Co Reviews
  • Sherwin-Williams Co Photos
  • Sherwin-Williams Co Brands
  • Sherwin-Williams Co Articles
  • Sherwin-Williams Co Offers
(415) 485-6739
444 Du Bois St
San Rafael, CA 94901

Areas Served: Mill Valley, San Rafael, Tiburon, Sausalito, Belvedere, Fairfax CA, San…
Key Brands: Sherwin-Williams

Kelly-Moore Paint Co

  • Kelly-Moore Paint Co Profile
  • Kelly-Moore Paint Co Scorecard
  • Kelly-Moore Paint Co Reviews
  • Kelly-Moore Paint Co Photos
  • Kelly-Moore Paint Co Brands
  • Kelly-Moore Paint Co Articles
  • Kelly-Moore Paint Co Offers
(415) 258-0627
124 Belvedere St
San Rafael, CA 94901

Areas Served: Marin, Novato, Sausalito, Mill Valley, San Rafael, Tiburon, San Anselmo,…
Key Brands: Kelly-Moore

Jim Corbet’s Ace Hardware Store

  • Jim Corbet's Ace Hardware Store Profile
  • Jim Corbet's Ace Hardware Store Scorecard
  • Jim Corbet's Ace Hardware Store Reviews
  • Jim Corbet's Ace Hardware Store Photos
  • Jim Corbet's Ace Hardware Store Brands
  • Jim Corbet's Ace Hardware Store Articles
  • Jim Corbet's Ace Hardware Store Offers
(415) 9247013
800 Magnolia Ave
Larkspur, CA 94939

Areas Served: Novato, San Rafael, Sausalito, Corte Madera, Tiburon, San Anselmo, Mill…

How to Find Good Paint Stores in Marin County

 

There is no state license required for paint sales in Marin County and so no state standard for competency. This makes it all the more significant that all paint stores bearing The Prime Buyer's Report—TOP 10 designation have been evaluated by our research staff, and have had to pass all the requirements for Prime Buyer's Report—TOP 10 status such as survey phone calls to previous customers to verify high satisfaction, clean complaint record, best business practices, length of time in business, and more.

 

Good Paint Stores in Marin County Can Walk You Through Your Next Paint Job
Technological progress seems to be affecting everything; it's even made its way into the painting industry. Those good paint stores in Marin County that have chosen to take the hi-tech route often use virtual computer color consultation to optimize your new paint colors scheme. But don't underestimate the value of simplicity; some good paint stores in Marin County rely on their supreme natural abilities to match by eye, often met with greater satisfaction than the tech savvy stores!

These best paint stores in Marin County often employ individuals who are trained in depth on current paint brands and paint products and methods in order to deliver sound advice on paint color matching and design ideas. Employees in good paint stores might be proficient in the mechanics of the paint brands and painting products they sell, so you're likely to find staff members at paint stores in Marin County who can perform on site evaluations. And since most people want to throw on a simple coat of paint in a single room or other small area, commercial equipment, like airless sprayers and power washers, can be rented instead of purchased.

So the next time you undertake a painting project in your home, consult paint stores in Marin County first and you can rely on the skillful advice and wide selection available at the best paint stores in Marin County locally.

Paint Stores in Marin County Sell Everything You'll Need
You can always find basic paint brands and disposable painting tools at a big-box store, but they can never match the paint selection you'll find at specialized paint stores. Some good paint stores in Marin County boast as many as 1,400 standard and custom paint colors, and carry a much larger selection of wall coverings and professional painting tools. So if you're looking for a better variety of paint colors or paint  finishes, local paint stores in Marin County carry latex and oil paints in flat finish paint, satin finish paint, semi-gloss paint and high gloss finish paints.

Beyond basic interior and exterior paints, some paint stores  in Marin County sell industrial coatings, marine coatings, architectural coatings, ceiling flats, deck stains, several types of paint removers, and even automotive paints. But before you start your painting project, you'll need more than just a few cans of paints in the right paint colors. Paint stores in Marin County can provide all of the necessary painting supplies for your painting project as well. Paint stores in Marin County listed here carry basic painting tools, like paint brushes and paint rollers, but they also supply primer, sealant, caulk, airless and power washers.

In recent years, local paint stores in Marin County have also increased their awareness of your sensitivities and environmental concerns. That's why many of them sell odor free paints, environmentally friendly paints, low VOC paints, lead free paints, and antifouling paints. These painting products, of course, are only a small sample of those offered by local paint stores in San Rafael and throughout Marin County, so check out our list of paint stores in Marin County. You'll be pleasantly surprised.

Some Paint Stores in Marin County CA Are Much Better Than Others
 The Prime Buyer's Report lists these paint stores in Marin County: Marin Color Service, Inc. San Rafael CA, Kelly-Moore Paint Co San Rafael CA, Sherwin-Williams Co San Rafael CA, Jim Corbet's Ace Hardware Store Larkspur CA, Tamalpais Paint & Color, Inc. Corte Madera CA, Anderson Paint Corp. San Rafael CA, Rafael Lumber San Rafael CA, Orchard Supply Hardware San Rafael CA. Other paint stores in San Rafael CA that might still be in business include: .

 

How to Shop at Good Paint Stores in Marin County

How to choose among all the paint stores in Marin County? These steps can help you narrow down the list and find the good paint stores in Marin County from which to make your purchase of paints.

Step 1: Make Preliminary Decisions Before You Hit the Paint Stores
Have a general idea of your project preferences before you consult paint stores in Marin County. Collect some sample paint swatches that come near the paint colors and paint finishes you like. Perhaps bring samples of fabrics or other materials that will be a part of the room to be painted. With more information, well-trained employees at local paint stores in Marin County can help you refine your choice.

Step 2: Call the Paint Stores in Marin County
To better utilize your time, call the paint stores in Marin County before visiting and get some basic business qualifications out of the way. The questions listed below can help you narrow down that long list of prospective paint stores and move forward with your purchase of paints. Try to speak to the manager or the owner of the paint stores.

• How long have the paint stores been in business in Marin County?

• Do the paint stores train your employees?

• Are the paint stores certified dealers of any particular paint brands?

• What paint brands do the paint stores sell?

• How much should I expect to pay to supply the whole project at each of the paint stores?

• Can the paint stores help with design and paint color consultation?

• Do the paint stores provide warranties for the painting products? How long are they?

• Can the paint stores repair your painting equipment?

• Do the paint stores rent any painting equipment?


Step 3: Scan the Selection at the Paint Stores in Marin County

If you already have an idea of which paint brands and painting tools you'll want, take a look at the inventory at the paint stores to make sure they carry those paint brands or painting products. Since your chosen paint store should be an all-in-one project, you'll want to be sure you can get everything you need in one trip. Don't be afraid to branch out either - grabbing a few more paint samples now can give you a better idea of what you want from the paint stores.

Step 4: Consult Staff Members at the Paint Stores in Marin County
Hardware stores usually hire employees with general home improvement knowledge, but since paint stores in Marin County usually only carry paint brands and painting supplies for a narrow specialty, employees at local paint stores should have more experience with the paint brands and painting products they sell in Marin County. Make sure the paint stores employees are capable so that you can later use their in-depth advice about paint color schemes and painting product details.

Step 5: Final Research of Paint Stores in Marin County
After you've found the best paint stores in Marin County, check for any quality certifications. Diamond Certification is a mark of great customer service for paint stores in Marin County, and Better Business Bureau information addresses overall complaint status.

Tips for Buying Paint at Marin County Paint Stores

Initial Research into the Paint Stores in Marin County.
Don't just wander into paint stores in Marin County hoping for the best. Before you start shopping for paints, research paint brands, paint colors and paint finishes you might like. If you're painting the exterior of your home, you might drive around the neighborhood for some ideas.

Consider the Color Scheme of Your Home Before Hitting the Paint Stores.
Before selecting paint colors on a whim, take into account the existing paint colors and textures in the rooms to be painted. You'll be happier with new paint colors if they highlight a paint scheme you've already started to develop. And remember, the staff at good paint stores in Marin County can match the color of nearly anything, from your couch to your paintings.

Take Time Choosing Among Paint Stores in Marin County.
Since you're putting so much effort into the new paint color and paint brand selection, do the same for paint stores you will be purchasing from. Paint stores in Marin County may vary in quality, selection, and price, and the best paint stores in Marin County can work with you to steer you in the right direction.

Go To the Paint Stores Prepared.
When you consult the technicians at the local paint stores about the ideas you have in mind, bring photos of the area to be painted or a piece of fabric or other material you would like matched or complimented.

Test a Sample at the Paint Stores.
Many paint stores can give you a sample of new paints you're considering so that you may experiment before you dedicate yourself to a color. There may be a small cost, but it's in your best interest to take advantage of this service provided by most good paint stores in Marin County. The lighting in your home is probably drastically different from that in the paint stores, and colors never look exactly the same as the swatch. Make sure the area in which you test the paint is inconspicuous, unless it's one of the lighter paint shades that can be covered easily.

Make Sure You're Prepared to "Do-it-Yourself" Before Spending at the Paint Stores
Seriously consider the work involved. If you want to paint the entire exterior of your home, it's a big job. You'll need expensive painting tools and a lot of time, patience, dexterity, and stamina. Just prepping a house to be painted can take days. You may want to hire a professional instead.

Inspect the Potential Paint Stores in Marin County.
Before you make a purchase from any of the paint stores in San Rafael or Marin County, check licenses, sales history, and employee credentials. While you're at it, look for any information on discount paints, special offers, and warranties.



Know Your Rights With Paint Stores in Marin County.

As a consumer, you're often vulnerable to the whims of a dishonest business. That's why you are protected by government-regulated consumer advocacy groups. Since you live in Marin County, you can read about the local standards at the California Department of Consumer Affairs.

Properly Dispose of Any Leftover Paint Bought at Marin County Paint Stores
New paint is actually a very caustic pollutant, and disposal is regulated by the EPA. So the portion that you don't save for future touch-ups and color matching should be disposed of properly. Approved discarding entails letting the new paints dry in a safe place (away from pets and children) and then leaving for regular garbage pickup. You may also let the new paints dry and recycle the can. But above all, NEVER pour paints down storm drains!! This water is returned to the water table and our potable water supply without being filtered.

Paint Stores in Marin County Carry the Best Paint Brands

Paint Stores in Marin County stock more well known brands than most hardware or building supply stores. The following list is only a small portion of the paint brands carried by local paint stores: Antonina Vella, Behr, Benjamin Moore, Dunn-Edwards, DuPont, 3M, Kelly-Moore, Dutch Boy, Bradbury & Bradbury, California Paints, Coronado Paint, Country Life, Duro By Classic Revivals, First Editions, Hamilton, Heritage Village Colors, Hines And Company, J.R. Burrows & Co, Maya Romanoff, Olde Century Colors, Old Fashioned Milk Paint Company, Pratt & Lambert, Sherwin Williams, and Smith & Fong.

Resources About Paint Stores in Marin County

Regulatory Bodies & Trade Associations for Paint Stores in San Rafael CA
BBB Better Business Bureau (http://www.bbb.com/)
CAUS the Color Association of The United States (http://www.colorassociation.com/)
DCA California Department of Consumer Affairs (www.dca.ca.gov)
IPPIC International Paint & Ink Council (http://www.ippic.org/)
NPCA National Paint and Coatings Association (http://www.paint.org/)
PDRA Paint and Decorating Retailers Association (http://www.pdra.org/)
SSPC The Society for Protective Coatings (http://www.sspc.org/)


Media Regarding Paint Sales in Marin County

Paint and Coatings Industry Magazine
Paint Dealer Magazine
Paint & Decorating Retailer Monthly

The Prime Buyer's Report provides information for the TOP 10 Paint Stores in Marin County within the following zip codes:

94950, 94929, 94978, 94933, 94914, 94938, 94977, 94942, 94915, 94948, 94976, 94957, 94979, 94963, 94964, 94912, 94913, 94966, 94971, 94973, 94903, 94920, 94945, 94924, 94925, 94930, 94904, 94937, 94939, 94965, 94949, 94940, 94941, 94946, 94947, 94956, 94960, 94974, 94901 and 94970

The Prime Buyer's Report provides information for the TOP 10 Paint Stores in Marin County within the following cities:

Bel Marin Keys, Belvedere, Belvedere Tiburon, Black Point, Bolinas, Corte Madera, Dogtown, Fairfax, Greenbrae, Ignacio, Inverness, Kent Woodlands, Kentfield, Larkspur, Marin City, Marinwood, Marshall, Mill Valley, Muir Beach, Muir Woods, Nicasio, Novato, Point Reyes Station, San Anselmo, San Marin, San Quentin, San Rafael, Santa Venetia, Sausalito, Stinson Beach, Strawberry Point, Tamal, Tamalpais Valley, Terra Linda, Tiburon, Dillon Beach, Forest Knolls, Lagunitas, Mission Rafael, Olema, Ross, San Geronimo, Tomales, Woodacre, Almonte, Lucas Valley and Sleepy Hollow