Does Family Dollar Sell Paint? An Expert’s Deep Dive

Yes, Family Dollar does sell paint. However, the selection is more limited than what you’d find at a dedicated hardware store like Home Depot or Lowe’s. They typically carry a smaller range of interior and exterior paints, often in smaller sizes and a curated selection of colors, focusing on budget-friendly options for smaller projects and touch-ups.

Decoding the Paint Aisle at Family Dollar: What to Expect

Stepping into the world of home improvement can be daunting, especially when you’re working with a budget. Family Dollar aims to provide accessible solutions, but understanding their paint offerings is crucial for successful project completion. Don’t expect vast aisles overflowing with every conceivable shade. Instead, anticipate a focused assortment catering to immediate needs and smaller-scale undertakings.

Paint Types Available

Family Dollar generally stocks a limited range of paint types:

• Interior Paint: This is the most common type you’ll find, often in latex-based formulations for walls and ceilings. Expect to see a selection of sheens, from flat (matte) to eggshell, and sometimes satin, although the variety might be restricted to the most popular choices. Be sure to check the label carefully to ensure it’s suitable for your intended surface.
• Exterior Paint: Selection here is usually more limited than interior options. If available, you’ll typically find it in smaller quantities for trim, doors, or small accent areas. It’s critical to confirm the paint’s suitability for exterior use and choose the appropriate primer for optimal adhesion and weather resistance.
• Spray Paint: This is another popular item, often available in various colors and finishes (gloss, matte, metallic). Spray paint is ideal for smaller projects, crafting, and quick touch-ups.
• Specialty Paints: Less common but sometimes available, you might find chalkboard paint, glitter paint, or other niche options, depending on seasonal offerings and store location. Always read the instructions carefully before using specialty paints.

Brands Carried

Family Dollar predominantly carries budget-friendly paint brands. These often offer a reasonable balance of quality and affordability, making them suitable for simple projects and quick fixes. Names you might encounter include private-label brands or lesser-known national brands. Price is often the key differentiator here. While you might not get the same level of performance or longevity as premium paints, these options are perfect for cost-conscious consumers.

Color Selection and Sizes

The color selection at Family Dollar is typically limited to the most popular and neutral shades. Expect to find whites, off-whites, beiges, grays, and perhaps a few basic primary and secondary colors. If you’re looking for highly specific or custom colors, you’ll likely need to visit a paint store or hardware store.

Paint sizes also tend to be smaller. You’ll often find quarts and gallons, but larger sizes (five-gallon buckets) are less common. This is ideal for smaller rooms, accent walls, or touch-up projects. If you’re painting a large area, you may need to purchase multiple containers.

Accessories and Supplies

While Family Dollar focuses on paint, they also offer a basic selection of painting supplies:

• Paintbrushes: A variety of sizes for different applications.
• Paint Rollers and Trays: Essential for covering larger surfaces quickly.
• Painter’s Tape: Crucial for creating clean lines and protecting surfaces.
• Drop Cloths: To protect flooring and furniture from splatters.
• Sandpaper: For surface preparation.
• Putty Knives: For patching holes and imperfections.

Remember that the quality of these accessories might be lower than professional-grade options, but they’re generally suitable for basic DIY projects.

Making the Most of Your Family Dollar Paint Purchase

Before diving in, consider these tips to ensure a successful painting project:

• Surface Preparation is Key: Clean, sand, and prime surfaces properly to ensure good adhesion and a smooth finish. This is especially important with less expensive paints.
• Read the Instructions: Always read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. This includes drying times, application techniques, and safety precautions.
• Ventilation is Essential: Ensure proper ventilation when painting indoors. Open windows and use fans to circulate air.
• Consider Multiple Coats: Lower-priced paints may require more coats to achieve full coverage and the desired color depth.
• Don’t Forget Primer: Primer is essential for creating a uniform surface, improving adhesion, and blocking stains.
• Clean Up Properly: Clean your brushes and rollers immediately after use to extend their lifespan. Dispose of paint and supplies responsibly.
• Compare Prices: Always compare the price per ounce or gallon with other retailers to ensure you’re getting the best value. Sometimes a slightly more expensive paint from a different store can offer better coverage and overall cost-effectiveness.
• Check the Dates: Ensure the paint hasn’t expired or been stored improperly, as this can affect its quality and performance.

FAQs: Demystifying Family Dollar’s Paint Selection

Here are some frequently asked questions to further clarify Family Dollar’s paint offerings:

1. What kind of paint is best to buy at Family Dollar?

Generally, interior latex paint offers the best value and versatility at Family Dollar. Look for paints suitable for walls and ceilings, especially if you’re working on a budget-friendly renovation.

2. Does Family Dollar sell exterior paint?

Yes, but the selection is limited. You’ll likely find smaller quantities suitable for trim, doors, or small accent areas. Be sure to confirm it’s specifically formulated for exterior use.

3. Are the paint brushes and rollers at Family Dollar good quality?

The quality is generally acceptable for basic DIY projects. However, if you’re a professional painter or working on a complex project, you might want to invest in higher-quality brushes and rollers from a paint supply store.

4. Can I get paint mixed to a specific color at Family Dollar?

No, Family Dollar typically doesn’t offer custom paint mixing services. You’ll have to choose from their pre-mixed colors.

5. What is the price range for paint at Family Dollar?

Paint prices at Family Dollar are significantly lower than at hardware stores. Expect to pay a few dollars for a quart and less than $20 for a gallon.

6. Does Family Dollar sell primer?

Yes, they usually stock primer, often in smaller quantities. Primer is crucial for preparing surfaces and ensuring good paint adhesion.

7. Is the paint at Family Dollar good for furniture?

It depends on the type of paint and the furniture. If you’re looking to paint furniture, it’s recommended to use chalk paint or enamel paint, which may not be readily available. If you opt for painting, be sure to use primer, sand lightly before and after the initial coat, and then seal the paint using wax or polyurethane.

8. Does Family Dollar sell stain for wood?

Stain for wood may be available at Family Dollar, but it is not something available at all locations. Be sure to check with your local Family Dollar retailer to see if it is something available.

9. What sizes of paint does Family Dollar sell?

They typically sell quarts and gallons, with smaller spray paint cans also available. Larger sizes (five-gallon buckets) are less common.

10. What is the best way to prepare a wall before painting with Family Dollar paint?

Clean the wall thoroughly, sand any imperfections, and apply a coat of primer. This will ensure good adhesion and a smooth, even finish.

11. How many coats of paint will I need to use from Family Dollar?

It depends on the paint’s coverage and the color you’re painting over. Generally, two coats are recommended for good coverage, but darker colors may require three or more.

12. What kind of warranty does Family Dollar offer on its paint?

Family Dollar typically doesn’t offer a specific warranty on its paint. However, if you experience issues with the product, you can try contacting their customer service. It’s always a good idea to keep your receipt.

In conclusion, while Family Dollar might not be your go-to destination for a full-scale home renovation, it offers a convenient and affordable option for smaller painting projects and quick touch-ups. By understanding the limitations and following our expert tips, you can achieve satisfactory results without breaking the bank.