
Behr paint codes are made up of a series of letters and numbers that indicate various features of the paint. For example, PPU14-19 indicates that the paint is a Premium Plus Ultra colour, with 14-19 being the code for the specific colour family. The letters can also indicate the initials of the associate who made the paint.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| First letter | Indicates the type of paint |
| Second letter | Indicates the initials of the associate who made the paint |
| Third letter | Indicates the type of paint |
| First set of numbers | Indicates the colour family |
| Second set of numbers | Indicates the specific colour |
| CM | Stands for Color Match |
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What You'll Learn

The first letter indicates the base colour
The Behr paint naming system is designed to help customers understand the qualities of each paint. The first letter of a Behr paint name indicates the base colour. For example, BL stands for black, while EL stands for Phthalo Blue.
However, the first letter does not indicate the exact shade of the base colour. For instance, while BL stands for black, the exact shade of black will depend on the subsequent numbers in the paint name, which indicate how much white is in the base can.
The first letter is also not indicative of the paint's quality. Behr offers different quality levels, such as premium plus, ultra, marquee, and standard Behr. The quality of the paint is denoted by the second word in the paint name, which follows the first letter. For example, "Premium Plus Ultra" is denoted by the letters "PPU" at the beginning of the paint name.
It is important to note that the naming system may have evolved over time, and the information provided here may not apply to all Behr paint products.
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The second letter is the colour's pigment
The second letter in a Behr paint code represents the colour's pigment. For example, the code "PPU14-19" indicates a Premium Plus Ultra colour, with "14-19" being the code for the specific colour family and colour.
Different pigments have different potencies and percentages, and some pigments are stronger than others, which can affect the final colour. For instance, some pigments can overpower other tints, and the amount of tint added needs to be balanced, especially for smaller amounts of paint.
The three letters in a Behr paint code, such as "AXL" or "CL", are the initials of the associate who made the paint. These codes can be used to identify specific colours, such as Permanent Yellow (AXL) or Black (BL).
Behr paint codes also indicate the amount of white in the base can, the sheen, and the quality of the paint. The codes can be customised, with the default being "Custom Colour Match".
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The first number indicates the amount of white in the base
Behr is a brand of paint that offers a wide range of colours and finishes. The paint brand is known for its highly-rated and award-winning paints, stains, and other products that deliver superior value. The letters in a Behr paint colour code indicate the specific colour and finish. For example, the code "PPU14-19" indicates that it is a "Premium Plus Ultra" colour, with "14-19" being the code for the specific colour family and shade.
Now, focusing on the requested aspect of your query, "The first number indicates the amount of white in the base." This statement refers to the colour code on a can of Behr paint, which is typically a combination of letters and numbers. The first number in the code represents the level of whiteness in the paint's base colour. This number indicates the ratio of white pigment to other pigments in the paint, determining whether the final colour will be lighter or darker.
For instance, a higher first number would indicate a higher proportion of white pigment, resulting in a lighter shade. Conversely, a lower number would mean less white pigment and a darker shade. This coding system allows for precise colour mixing and matching, ensuring consistency across different batches of paint.
Additionally, the letters in the Behr paint code represent the initials of the associate who created the paint. This practice ensures proper credit and recognition for the paint developer. It also enables customers to identify the specific associate who formulated their chosen colour, which can be helpful when seeking advice or additional information about the paint.
Understanding the meaning behind Behr paint colour codes can be beneficial for customers who wish to explore different shades within the same colour family or seek specific qualities in their paint, such as a lighter or darker variation of a particular colour. By deciphering the code, customers can make more informed choices when selecting paint for their projects and can better communicate their preferences to Behr representatives or associates.
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The second number is the sheen
The sheen of a Behr paint refers to its level of glossiness or shininess. The sheen is indicated by a number code, which is the second set of digits in the paint code. For example, in the code "84/40/100", the first set of numbers ("84/40") refers to the original gallon of paint, while the second set ("100") represents the sheen.
Sheen is an important factor to consider when choosing a paint as it affects the final appearance and characteristics of the painted surface. Behr offers several sheen options, each with its own unique properties and applications:
- Flat sheen: This type of sheen is non-reflective and easy to apply and touch up. It helps minimize the appearance of minor surface imperfections, making it a good choice for hiding flaws on walls.
- Satin enamel sheen: This sheen creates a pearl-like finish that is elegant and durable. It resists moisture, fading, and stains, making it suitable for areas that need to be kept clean and well-maintained, such as kitchens or bathrooms.
- Semi-gloss enamel sheen: This sheen has a sleek and radiant appearance. It is formulated to withstand wear and tear and resists moisture, fading, and stains. This type of sheen is often used in high-traffic areas like hallways or kids' rooms.
- Hi-Gloss enamel sheen: This sheen provides a brilliant, shiny, and highly reflective finish. It creates a durable, glass-like surface that is easy to clean, making it ideal for areas that require frequent wiping or that need to maintain a pristine appearance, such as doors or cabinets.
When selecting a sheen, it is important to consider the specific requirements of the space being painted, as well as the level of glossiness desired. Different sheens can enhance the ambiance of a room, hide imperfections, or improve durability and ease of maintenance. By understanding the characteristics of each sheen, individuals can make informed decisions to achieve their desired results when using Behr paint products.
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The third number is the quality
Behr paint codes are made up of a series of letters and numbers that indicate various properties of the paint. The letters are related to the colour, while the numbers indicate the sheen, quality, and other attributes.
The third number in a Behr paint code refers to the quality of the paint. Behr offers different quality levels, including 'Ultra', 'Marquee', and standard 'Behr' paint. These different qualities are formulated differently and will, therefore, interact with colours in distinct ways.
For example, the 'Ultra' quality paints are formulated to coordinate regardless of the colours chosen. While some colour combinations will look better than others, they will not "clash" like a bright and a muted colour would.
The quality of the paint is an important consideration when choosing a paint for a project. The higher quality paints, like 'Ultra', are likely to have better coverage, durability, and colour accuracy. They may also be more expensive, so it is important to consider the specific needs of the project and choose the paint quality that best suits those needs.
It is worth noting that different sizes of paint may also affect the colour, as smaller amounts of paint require a balance in the amount of tint added. Additionally, the base of the paint, or the paint before colour is added, can also make a difference in the final colour.
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Frequently asked questions
The letters in Behr paint colour codes refer to the different colours. For example, AXL stands for Permanent Yellow, BL stands for Black, and CL stands for Yellow Oxide.
The numbers in Behr paint colour codes indicate the colour family and specific colour. For example, in PPU14-19, 14-19 is the code for the colour family and specific colour.
"PPU" indicates that it is a Premium Plus Ultra colour.
No, the letters do not refer to the person who made the paint. However, the three letters at the end of the code are the initials of the associate who made it.











































