Sherwin Williams Then and Now: The Flint Classic That Changed Everything

Sun, 03 May 2026 10:41:54 +0000

# Sherwin Williams Then and Now: The Flint Classic That Changed Everything When it comes to iconic brands in the paint and coatings industry, Sherwin-Williams stands as a monumental name. Nowhere is this legacy more powerfully embodied than in the Flint Classic resist paint—a groundbreaking innovation that revolutionized exterior finishes and set a new standard for durability, color consistency, and performance. Rooted in the city of Flint, Michigan, Sherwin Williams’ journey from a small-time paint manufacturer to a global leader is closely tied to the evolution of the Flint Classic, a product that truly changed everything for homeowners, contractors, and the broader building materials industry. ## The Flint Origins: A Spark That Ignited Change The story of Sherwin Williams’ Flint Classic begins in Flint, Michigan—a city historically known for its automobile heritage and manufacturing innovation. Established in 1866 as Sherwin Steel, the company pivoted into coatings in the early 20th century, recognizing the growing demand for resilient, long-lasting paints. By the 1950s, as suburban expansion boomed across America, the need for high-performance exterior coatings became critical. Traditional paints often failed to withstand weather extremes, UV radiation, and wear, leading to frequent maintenance and costly replacements.