Lowe’s offers hundreds of different paint colors to fit the needs of any paint project.
While painting can be a fun project, it can also be extremely stressful to find the perfect shade you are looking for.
Regardless of whether you have already purchased paint from Lowe’s or you are thinking about using Lowe’s for your next project, you are probably wondering if you can return your paint to Lowe’s.
Here is what you need to know about Lowe’s paint return policy.
Can You Return Paint At Lowe’s?
Yes, you can return paint to Lowe’s as part of their paint color guarantee.
They offer returns on paint for up to 30 days after the date of purchase.
Lowe’s does have certain requirements in place in order to return paint, but if these are followed, then you can return the paint you purchased at Lowe’s.
Lowe’s will accept used paint for return.
If you have opened the paint and want to return it, then it must be in the original container for them to accept the return.
You can return used paint at Lowe’s if the paint is defective, it is the wrong color of paint, or if it is the wrong type of paint.
They have no issue with taking back open paint as long as it is still almost completely full.
Does Lowe’s Resell Used Paint?
Lowe’s will sometimes sell used paint.
If a customer returns paint that has been opened, then they will typically tint the paint and sell it at a discounted price.
They will not sell the exact color that is returned to make sure that the same customer will not return their paint and try to purchase it at a discounted price.
If Lowe’s has reason to believe that the opened paint cannot be resold, then they will properly dispose of it.
Can You Return Paint To Lowe’s Without A Receipt?
Yes, you can return the paint without a receipt, but it is not as easy and is up to the manager’s discretion.
It is important if you purchase paint from Lowe’s to hold on to your receipt in case you do not like the paint color and want to return it.
If you are not able to provide valid proof of purchase then they will not be able to accept the return on the paint.
Outside of having your original receipt, you can also provide the credit card that was used for the purchase.
Depending on the store and manager, you may only be able to get a store credit if you do not have the original receipt.
How Does Lowe’s Refund You For Paint?
Lowe’s will typically refund you in the same method that you used for your original purchase, whether that was a credit card or cash.
If you do not have your receipt and you want to return paint then you will most likely get store credit for your return.
What Types Of Paint Can You Not Return To Lowe’s?
Lowe’s accepts returns on most types of paint, but there are certain types that they will not let you return.
You cannot return spray paint, any mixed paint, paint that has been tinted lighter or darker, or chalk paint.
Paints that are mixed and tinted are sometimes difficult for them to try to resell so they will not allow you to return them.
What If Lowe’s Gives You The Wrong Paint?
If Lowe’s accidentally gives the wrong paint whether that is the wrong color or even the wrong mixed or tinted paint, they will happily resolve the problem.
Although they do not return mixed or tinted paint, if it was an error on their part, then they will adjust the paint or provide a brand new gallon of paint.
What Brands Of Paint Does Lowe’s Carry?
1. HGTV Home By Sherwin Williams
Much of the inspiration for home decorating that is found these days is seen on HGTV.
This brand of paint has color collections inspired by designers to help you find multiple colors that will work well together in your home.
2. Valspar
Valspar is a leader in the paint industry and their selection at Lowe’s is no different.
They offer a wide range of interior and exterior paints as well as stains and sealants.
The color selection is large, and you are likely to find a color that fits exactly what you are looking for.
3. Magnolia Home
Made by Joanna Gaines, this line of paint is perfect for those who were fans of Fixer Upper.
They offer interior wall paint, cabinet paint, and furniture paint in a color selection that is tailored to the style of the entire Magnolia Home line.
4. Rust-Oleum
Rust-Oleum provides a range of protective paints and coatings.
The company was originally founded by a sea captain who realized that putting fish oil on the boat deck helped to prevent rust from forming.
Rust-Oleum provides oil-based products that are intended to protect surfaces from rust.
5. Cabot
Cabot provides stains for wood surfaces.
Their products are best intended for people that are staining wood furniture or fences.
They offer a range of stains and are one of the leaders in wood stain products.
6. Thompson’s Water Seal
As the name suggests, Thompson’s Water Seal provides a range of products intended for protecting surfaces from water.
They are mainly used for outdoor spaces to protect from the weather.
7. Kilz
Kilz is a well-known brand that offers top-of-the-line primers, paints, and concrete stains.
Their primers are known for trapping and sealing odors, blocking stains, and evening out porous surfaces.
How Much Does Paint At Lowe’s Cost?
The cost of a gallon of paint from Lowe’s will vary depending on the brand and the type of paint that you are purchasing.
Interior house paint will cost anywhere from $15.00 to $60.00 per gallon and exterior paint will typically cost $20.00 to $80.00 per gallon.
How Do You Know How Much Paint To Buy?
In order to figure out how much paint you need to buy, you will need to determine the size of the area you are painting.
You will want to measure the space you are painting and figure out how many square feet it is.
Once you have determined the square footage, then you will also want to determine if you are going to be applying multiple coats of paint.
Each gallon of paint will cover approximately 350 to 400 square feet.
Most of the time, you will need at least one coat of primer and one coat of paint, but many times, you might need multiple coats of primer and paint depending on if you are covering up a dark color with a lighter color.
Does Lowe’s Offer Paint Samples?
If paint swatches do not help you make your decision on paint color, then you also have the option to purchase paint samples from Lowe’s.
Their paint samples come in half pints and cost around $5.00 to purchase.
A paint sample is a great way to try out multiple colors on a larger area before purchasing a large gallon container of paint.
Paint samples can help to prevent you from having to deal with the hassle of returning paint at all and you can purchase several samples for a reasonable price.
How Does Paint Matching Work At Lowe’s?
Lowe’s does paint matching for people who may have a color in their home or on a cabinet that they want to match but do not know the exact paint color.
Since paint comes in a wide variety of shades, it can be important to get the exact color correct.
A spectrophotometer is used to match paint colors at Lowe’s.
This machine measures the number of photons, also known as the intensity of light, that are absorbed after it passes through a sample.
For the machine to properly match a color, you need to provide a one-inch square sample, whether that is a sample of the paint that is already on the wall or cabinet, or Lowe’s can also match a paint color to a fabric.
Once you have your paint match, it is recommended that you get a sample of the paint color to try next to your original color in order to ensure that the new paint matches.
It can be difficult to get the exact color.
What Are The Different Types Of Paint Finishes?
There are different types of paint finishes available and knowing the difference between them can help prevent you from needing to return paint at all.
Many people end up returning paint not only because they don’t like the color, but they also realize they want a different finish or sheen.
1. Flat Or Matte Finish
A flat or matte finish has no reflective qualities and is best suited for low-traffic areas in your home.
Flat paint is great to cover up imperfections because it does not reflect light at all.
However, flat paint is not a good option for areas that have people coming and going or if you have pets and children.
Flat paint is extremely hard to clean, and most of the time, it requires you to completely repaint in order to cover any scuffs or marks that have occurred.
It cannot be cleaned with soap and water like other finishes are.
2. Eggshell Finish
The eggshell finish is one of the most popular finishes that people will use when they purchase paint.
It has a very light sheen and works well in almost any area of the home.
Eggshell paint will reflect light very slightly, so it is still a great option for areas that may have very slight imperfections, but it is easier to clean than flat paint.
3. Satin Finish
Satin paint will also have a light sheen, and it does reflect more light than eggshell.
If you are not wanting something extremely reflective, but still want a finish that is much easier to clean, then satin may be the option for you.
Many people will use satin paint in kids’ rooms or kids’ bathrooms where the walls will get touched and bumped frequently.
4. Semi-Gloss And High Gloss Finish
The semi-gloss and high gloss finishes in paint are going to make more of a statement.
They are harder to paint, and they will show almost any imperfection on the wall as well as in the painting job.
Many people who want to have a high gloss paint will hire a professional painter in order to have the job done perfectly.
However, a big bonus to high gloss paint is that it does resist stains and scuffs better and can be easily cleaned with a damp rag.
This makes high gloss paint a good option for areas such as kitchens since they can be messy and the walls can easily be scuffed and stained.
Are There Ever Sales On Paint At Lowe’s?
In prior years, Lowe’s has had sales on paint during certain times of the year.
They typically run promotions during the summer months and it usually falls around holidays such as the 4th of July or Memorial Day.
They will also occasionally offer discounts during Black Friday sales as well.
If you can wait until one of these times to purchase paint, you may be able to get a great deal.
Can You Stock Up On Paint And Wait To Use It?
Yes, you can stock up on paint during a sale and then wait to use it.
Latex or acrylic paints will stay good for up to 10 years if stored in good conditions.
Paint should be stored out of the sun and ideally in a temperature-controlled environment where it will not get too hot or where the paint could freeze.
It will also need to be stirred thoroughly before use if it has sat for an extended period.
Depending on your location, your local Lowe’s store might even shake it up on their machine for you.
It never hurts to ask.
Can You Return Paint To Home Depot?
Home Depot does offer a paint satisfaction guarantee and will allow you to return paint if you are not 100% happy with it.
The Home Depot paint return policy is very similar to Lowe’s paint return policy.
You have 30 days to return the paint to Home Depot and must provide an original receipt or proof of purchase.
They do allow you to return opened paint if you have your original receipt and it is in the original container.
Similar to Lowe’s, you cannot return mixed or tinted paint to Home Depot.
However, they will adjust the color for you free of charge if you are not happy with the way the mixed or tinted paint color turned out.
Can You Return Paint To Sherwin Williams?
You can return paint to Sherwin Williams, but their policy is much stricter than Lowe’s.
Paint that is being returned to Sherwin Williams must be returned within 30 days, and you have to have the original receipt.
Along with requiring your original receipt, the paint cannot be opened and must be in its original container.
Once it is opened, Sherwin Williams will not accept it back for returns.
Conclusion
Lowe’s is a great place to purchase paint due to a wide variety of brands, colors, and types of paint.
Having the option to color match and get paint samples will help to alleviate some of the stress out of paint shopping.
However, it is great to know that you can return paint to Lowe’s if needed.
FAQs
Does Lowes accept returns on paint? ›
Paint Guarantee: If you are not completely satisfied with your interior and exterior liquid paint, stain or resurfacers purchase, simply bring it in its original container to any US Lowe's store along with your receipt within 30 days of purchase.
Can you return unused paint? ›You can return most interior, exterior, and spray paints to Home Depot within 30 days of your purchase. You can return white paint to Home Depot if it is unopened and unused within 30 days of purchase. You cannot return mixed paint to Home Depot, especially if you mix the paint yourself.
Can you return paint to Lowes without receipt? ›For returns without a valid receipt, Lowe's, at its discretion, may issue in-store credit for the item's current selling price. Lowe's requires a valid picture ID (state driver's license, state ID card or military ID) for returns without a valid proof of purchase.
What is Lowes policy on returns? ›2. Lowe's return policy gives you 90 days to get a refund on most items. Lowe's spells out in their return policy that equipment must be “new and unused” if shoppers are going to get a full refund within 90 days of receiving their item.
Can you Retint paint at Lowes? ›Can I Return Lowe's Paint if It's Used? Lowe's accepts returns of liquid paint containers that are unsealed, as long as you used only a portion of the paint before returning the product. If that portion matches a small test amount of paint, your return request is likely to be accepted.
Does Lowes keep track of paint purchases? ›No more taking messy paint cans in-store with you! Not only does it track what brand and finish of paint you bought, it knows what color as well! Whether it was one of Lowe's custom colors, or a color you had matched from a different brand, all the information is stored right there on your card.
Can you return a gallon of paint to Home Depot? ›Paint Satisfaction Guarantee Policy: If you are not satisfied with your interior or exterior liquid paint purchase, bring your paint and receipt back to the store within 30 days of purchase. We will make it right by correcting your paint or giving you a comparable can of paint.
What is Lowe's return policy exceptions? ›Lowe's exceptions to the 90 days refund.
Winter/Holiday Seasonal Items – Must be returned by December 31st of the same holiday season. Major Appliances – 30 days. Outdoor Power Equipment – 30 days.
Mistints are paints that are unused or returned by customers because they're not the right color match or finish.
Can I return unused paint to Home Depot? ›Paint Satisfaction Guarantee Policy: If you are not 100% satisfied with your interior or exterior liquid paint purchase, bring your paint and receipt back to the store within 30 days of purchase. We will make it right by correcting your paint or giving you a comparable can of paint.
What does Lowes do with returned items? ›
Lowe's packs these up, and sends them over to Direct Liquidation, where we then list Lowe's home improvement returns, from the pallet to the truckload for anyone to purchase. You'll find everything from fixtures and fittings to power and hand tools to home appliances, returned for a variety of reasons.
How many times can you return at Lowes without a receipt? ›For most unused products, you can return for a full refund or store credit within 90 days. Lowe's may also accept some products in “like new” condition. You can only get store credit if you paid using previous store credit, a gift card, or a Lowe's credit card.
Will Lowes accept return after 90 days? ›Lowe's Return Policy After 90 Days Summary
Lowe's return policy after 90 days requires you to have the original purchase receipt, and you'll need the store manager's approval. In addition, the item must also be in Lowe's inventory. Unlike late returns, on-time returns don't require you to have the receipt.
Paint Satisfaction Guarantee Policy: If you are not 100% satisfied with your interior or exterior liquid paint purchase, bring your paint and receipt back to the store within 30 days of purchase. We will make it right by correcting your paint or giving you a comparable can of paint.
Can you Retint paint at Lowes? ›Can I Return Lowe's Paint if It's Used? Lowe's accepts returns of liquid paint containers that are unsealed, as long as you used only a portion of the paint before returning the product. If that portion matches a small test amount of paint, your return request is likely to be accepted.
What does Lowes do with returned items? ›Lowe's packs these up, and sends them over to Direct Liquidation, where we then list Lowe's home improvement returns, from the pallet to the truckload for anyone to purchase. You'll find everything from fixtures and fittings to power and hand tools to home appliances, returned for a variety of reasons.
Can Lowes color match paint? ›Can Lowe's match a paint color? Yes, Lowe's can match paint colors as each store has a spectrophotometer in the paint section. This also holds true for other big-box retailers such as Home Depot and Walmart.
Why would Home Depot deny a return? ›There could be several reasons that Home Depot doesn't accept your return including returns made outside the return timeframe, returns of products that are not eligible for refunds, or improper returns of products with special return policies.
Can I return unopened paint to Sherwin Williams? ›According to the Sherwin Williams website, unopened paint can be returned within 30 days of purchase with proof of receipt. However, custom paint orders can not be returned.
Can I get a cash refund if I paid by debit card? ›Some retailers allow you to request a cash refund if you process a return transaction with a debit card, but you will not be able to do this with a credit card.
Does Lowes keep track of paint purchases? ›
No more taking messy paint cans in-store with you! Not only does it track what brand and finish of paint you bought, it knows what color as well! Whether it was one of Lowe's custom colors, or a color you had matched from a different brand, all the information is stored right there on your card.
Will Home Depot Retint paint? ›Paint Shake and Re-Tints
If you bring your old paint to a Home Depot paint center, you can have it shaken up in their machines. This saves the effort of stirring up your old paint, but it also sets up another great service: paint re-tints.
Mistints are paints that are unused or returned by customers because they're not the right color match or finish.
What is Lowe's return policy exceptions? ›Lowe's exceptions to the 90 days refund.
Winter/Holiday Seasonal Items – Must be returned by December 31st of the same holiday season. Major Appliances – 30 days. Outdoor Power Equipment – 30 days.
A lot of times, Lowes will be able to recall the exact purchase order on their computer by using your phone number, credit or debit card number, or Lowes rewards number. Then the store can track the history of purchase and return and be able to refund the purchase with the same tender you used to buy the item.
How many days is Lowe's return policy? ›How Many Return Days Does Lowe's Give You? 90 days. The Lowe's return policy stipulates that you have 90 days to return items to their store.
How accurate is Lowes paint matching? ›Is Lowes Paint Match Accurate? Lowes paint matching is an accurate process. Although the results depend on the samples you bring, the spectrophotometer will give you at least 90% accuracy, which is pretty decent. Lowes paint matching isn't only accurate but also relatively fast.
How accurate is color matching paint? ›Typically, color matching is about 90 percent accurate, and accuracy really depends on the model of spectrophotometer and the computer software that goes with it [source: House Beautiful]. Spectrophotometers typically have between 16 and 31 filters, with 31 being the most accurate.
How big of a paint chip do you need to match the color? ›For best results, you'll need a chip that's at least 1 inch square. At the paint store, staff will use their spectrophotometer to analyze the chip and match it to their brand's closest color.