Having used Lick Paint on a few occasions in the last year or so, I’ve decided to write a review to reflect my findings, including the range of paints available, colour performance, ease of application and how it compares to competitors such as Dulux and Farrow & Ball.
As a professional decorator by day, I get the opportunity to use a variety of different paint brands and one I’ve been using more and more recently due to customer requests is Lick Paint.
Founded in 2019, Lick Paint seemed a bit gimmicky to me when I first started seeing them advertising expensive, ‘luxury’ paint to DIYers. But since then, they’ve brought out Lick Paint Pro (for tradesmen) and thus I’ve been taking them a little bit more seriously!
But how good are they as a paint brand? Do they measure up to the standards set by high-quality brands such as Dulux? How do they compare to direct competitors such as Farrow and Ball?
In today’s article, I’m going to review Lick Paint and give my professional opinion on a variety of different attributes so you can decide, whether you’re a tradesman or a DIYer if they’re right for you.
My Lick Paint Review
Ordering Process
When I first ordered Lick Paint, I found the process to be slightly inconvenient. The Pro version, in particular, could only be purchased through Screwfix which was essentially acting as a dropship platform for Lick Paint. This meant that delivery took longer than expected, with my order arriving on Wednesday evening after being placed on the previous Friday.
These days, Lick Paint can be bought directly from their store and is stocked in some DIY merchants in the UK giving you quick access to the product.
Application and Coverage
During my experiences with Lick Paint Pro, I’ve found that the paint has covered surfaces effectively and has been somewhat smooth to apply. However, I’ve found that thinning it down by about 10% has improved its application. On the downside, I was not particularly impressed with Lick’s own branded brushes, as they don’t retain their shape after washing which affects their overall durability and performance.
Colour Performance
One notable success I had with Lick Paint Pro was using the blue colour, which covered white interior walls effectively in just one coat (see image below). However, it is worth mentioning that coverage, like with any other paint brand, varies depending on the colour chosen.
I encountered instances where certain colours required multiple coats, such as three coats for yellow and two coats for green. This is not uncommon and should be expected when working with certain shades and when painting over lighter/darker colours.
Packaging and Usability
Unfortunately, the design of Lick Paint cans proved to be a major drawback when I first started using them. The cans were not stackable, making them impractical for working efficiently. Additionally, pouring and working out of the cans was challenging, especially during one instance when a customer of mine accidentally left paint around the screw top, causing it to seal shut.
Opening these cans became a tedious task, sometimes requiring tools like hammers and screwdrivers to pry them open. However, it is worth noting that the Pro version of Lick Paint now comes in a standard tin, which makes decorators’ lives that much easier. The original packaging design was undoubtedly a flaw that needed addressing, as it led to wastage and inconvenience so I for one am very glad they’ve listened to the pros.
Quality and Finish
Despite some drawbacks, the quality of Lick Paint is generally sound. The opacity of the paint is impressive, and it tends to go on smoothly.
However, I have encountered the occasional picture-framing issue. To mitigate this, I’ve since found that using a medium pile mini roller and rolling as close as possible during cutting-in helped achieve better results. On the first occasion that I tried this, the overall finish was fantastic, with no visible imperfections or flashing.
Value for Money
When it comes to overall value for money, my opinion is somewhat divided. While Lick Paint Pro provides excellent coverage and goes a long way, the original retail tins were disappointing. However, the introduction of a proper trade tin for the Pro version has addressed this concern.
Whenever I’ve used the eggshell version, the opacity of the paint hasn’t quite been up to standard, often requiring three coats when transitioning from mid to light shades. Nevertheless, the overall finish was exceptional, sitting well on itself without any visible flaws, hence why I’m somewhat divided!
Yes, you will have an easy time applying and will achieve a professional finish, but there’s always some sort of issue to look out for when using Lick and the price tag for what it is might be a bit too much for me.
Colour Matching and Availability
One advantage of Lick Paint is its ability to be colour-matched. I had two of their colours mixed at Johnstone’s without any issues. This flexibility in colour matching offers convenience and reassurance for painters seeking specific shades for their projects but who might not necessarily want to pay the premium price of Lick or have their preferred paint brand to use on certain jobs.
Final Thoughts
With the likes of Dulux Heritage, Little Greene, and Farrow and Ball dominating the ‘luxury’ paint market at the moment, Lick provides another option for DIYers and professionals alike.
I really like the colour choices and the overall performance of both Lick and Lick Paint Pro is a real selling point. But talking of selling points – Lick Paint is a decent choice, but there are other brands like Dulux Heritage that offer comparable quality at a more affordable price.
As a professional painter, it’s essential to consider your specific requirements and explore different options before making a final decision on what paint to buy. But if a customer has already purchased Lick Paint, you should be in for a good experience.