When searching for the perfect bright white paint, it’s easy to get stuck comparing two similar crisp shades from Sherwin Williams. Popular choices Ceiling Bright White SW 7007 and Extra White SW 7006 appear very alike at first glance. But what really differentiates these two beautiful, clean whites?
In this guide, we’ll analyze Ceiling Bright White vs Extra White in-depth to help you determine the ideal white paint for your home. We’ll look at undertones, light reflectance, real-life photos, room pairings and more.
Let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
Key Differences Between Ceiling Bright White and Extra White
Before getting into the nitty gritty, here is an overview of the main differences between Sherwin Williams’ Ceiling Bright White and Extra White:
- Light Reflectance – Ceiling Bright White has an LRV of 83, Extra White has an LRV of 86
- Undertones – Ceiling Bright White is a cooler white, Extra White is a warmer white
- Use – Ceiling Bright White works well on ceilings and trim, Extra White suits walls
- Rooms – Ceiling Bright White excels in bathrooms, Extra White shines in kitchens
- Availability – Both come in all sheens
Now let’s explore Ceiling Bright White and Extra White more thoroughly.
Sherwin Williams Ceiling Bright White SW 7007
With its crisp, clean appearance, Sherwin Williams Ceiling Bright White SW 7007 creates an optimal backdrop for ceilings and trims. This versatile color works well across most spaces.
Here are some details about Ceiling Bright White:
- LRV: 83
- Undertones: Cooler white
- Finish: Available in all sheens
- Rooms: Bathrooms, kitchens, offices, living spaces
- Pairs Well With: Warm paint colors, wood tones
Ceiling Bright White is a brighter, crisper white with hints of cool blue. In all lighting it maintains its clean, bright white appearance.
The 83 light reflectance value provides extra illumination without being overwhelming. Ceiling Bright White gives an airy, refreshing feel.
This adaptable white complements a wide variety of colors from bold to muted. Popular Ceiling Bright White color pairings include:
- Sherwin Williams Naval SW 6244
- Sherwin Williams Accessible Beige SW 7036
- Rich wood stains and finishes
- Gray color palettes
While suitable anywhere in a home, Ceiling Bright White truly excels in these applications:
- Ceilings
- Doors and trims
- Bathrooms
- Kitchens
- Hallways
Ceiling Bright White’s brightness helps bounce light around, and accentuates other paint colors beautifully.
Sherwin Williams Extra White SW 7006
With its subtle warm undertone, Sherwin Williams Extra White SW 7006 creates a flexible neutral backdrop. This versatile color works beautifully across most spaces.
Here are some details about Extra White:
- LRV: 86
- Undertones: Warmer white
- Finish: Available in all sheens
- Rooms: Living rooms, bedrooms, dining rooms, offices
- Pairs Well With: Cool paint colors, black and gray
Extra White is a softer, warmer white with hints of ivory. In all lighting it maintains its flexible neutral white appearance.
The 86 light reflectance value provides maximum illumination without being stark. Extra White gives a soothing, comfortable feel.
This adaptable white complements a wide variety of colors from vivid to muted. Popular Extra White color pairings include:
- Sherwin Williams Rainwashed SW 6477
- Sherwin Williams Tricorn Black SW 6258
- Gray and black trims
- Wood furniture
While suitable anywhere in a home, Extra White truly excels in these welcoming spaces:
- Living Rooms
- Bedrooms
- Offices
- Dining Rooms
- Hallways
Extra White’s softness helps it blend beautifully with varied styles and accent colors.
Comparing Ceiling Bright White vs Extra White
Now that we’ve examined Ceiling Bright White and Extra White independently, let’s directly compare them:
Light Reflectance
Ceiling Bright White and Extra White have LRVs of 83 and 86 respectively. Extra White will appear slightly brighter.
Undertones
Here’s where the main difference lies. Ceiling Bright White is a cooler white, while Extra White is a warmer white.
Use & Rooms
Ceiling Bright White’s crispness excels on ceilings, trims and in bathrooms. Extra White’s softness fits better on walls in living areas.
Availability
Both Ceiling Bright White and Extra White come in any sheen from matte to high gloss.
Ceiling Bright White vs Extra White Comparison Chart
| Paint Color | Ceiling Bright White SW 7007 | Extra White SW 7006 |
|---|---|---|
| LRV | 83 | 86 |
| Undertones | Cooler white | Warmer white |
| Use | Ceilings, trims, bathrooms | Walls, living areas |
| Finishes | All sheens | All sheens |
| Style | Crisp, clean | Soft, flexible |
Real-Life Photos: Ceiling Bright White vs Extra White
Let’s look at real-life photos to better visualize the differences between Ceiling Bright White and Extra White:
Sherwin Williams Ceiling Bright White
Sherwin Williams Extra White
While both are crisp whites, Ceiling Bright White appears cooler and brighter, while Extra White is warmer and softer. Lighting affects their look.
Should I Choose Ceiling Bright White or Extra White?
So how do you decide between Sherwin Williams’ Ceiling Bright White or Extra White for your home? Here are a few tips:
Choose Ceiling Bright White SW 7007 if you want:
- A crisp, clean cool white
- Maximum brightness for ceilings and trims
- To accentuate bold wall colors
- A refreshing, airy feel
Choose Extra White SW 7006 if you want:
- A soft, flexible warm white
- A welcoming backdrop for walls
- To blend with varied styles
- A soothing, comfortable feel
Get samples of both Ceiling Bright White and Extra White. Paint large sections on your actual walls and ceilings viewing at different times of day. This gives you the best sense of how the undertones read in your environment.
You can also pair them with decor you already have to visualize the look. Both offer beautiful clean white tones that suit varied needs.
Ideal Room Pairings
Here are some rooms and uses that are especially well-suited to Ceiling Bright White and Extra White paint colors:
Sherwin Williams Ceiling Bright White
- Ceilings
- Doors and trims
- Bathrooms
- Hallways
- Offices
Sherwin Williams Extra White
- Living rooms
- Bedrooms
- Dining rooms
- Offices
- Hallways
While both whites work beautifully throughout a home, the above applications make optimal use of their unique strengths.
Decorating Ideas and Color Pairings
On their own, Ceiling Bright White and Extra White create clean backdrops. Complement them with other colors and materials for gorgeous spaces:
Ceiling Bright White SW 7007 Pairings
- Sherwin Williams Naval SW 6244
- Sherwin Williams Accessible Beige SW 7036
- Rich wood stains
- Gray color schemes
Extra White SW 7006 Pairings
- Sherwin Williams Rainwashed SW 6477
- Sherwin Williams Tricorn Black SW 6258
- Gray and black trims
- Wood furniture
Ceiling Bright White vs Extra White – Which is Better?
So which white paint color is better for your home – Ceiling Bright White or Extra White?
Consider Ceiling Bright White SW 7007 if you want:
- A crisp, clean cool white
- Maximum brightness for ceilings and trims
- To accentuate bold wall colors
- A refreshing, airy feel
Consider Extra White SW 7006 if you want:
- A soft, flexible warm white
- A welcoming backdrop for walls
- To blend with varied styles
- A soothing, comfortable feel
While Ceiling Bright White is crisper, Extra White is softer and warmer. Get samples before deciding. Either beautiful clean Sherwin Williams white you choose will suit your needs perfectly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Still trying to decide between Ceiling Bright White or Extra White? Here are answers to some common questions:
What are the main differences between Ceiling Bright White and Extra White?
The main differences are their tones and uses. Ceiling Bright White is a cooler, crisper white best for ceilings and trims while Extra White is a warmer, softer white ideal for walls.
What colors go well with Ceiling Bright White?
Ceiling Bright White looks beautiful paired with bold colors like navy blue, rich wood tones, gray color schemes, and warmer paint colors.
Is Extra White a good exterior paint color?
Yes, Extra White is a popular exterior color. Its warmth provides a welcoming look and the higher LRV offers good illumination.
Can you use Ceiling Bright White on walls?
Ceiling Bright White can be used on walls but may look overly stark and clinical. It is better suited for ceilings, trims and bathrooms.
Does Extra White come in flat finish?
Yes, Extra White is extremely versatile and comes in any sheen from flat/matte to high gloss semi-gloss finishes.
