What Types of Exterior Paints Last Longest?

When painting the exterior of your home, you want to use the right paint. Consumer Reports tests exterior paints for durability and recommends those that won't fade or crack after 10 years. The paint you choose should also be resistant to dirt and freezing and thawing cycles. Here's a look at what each type of paint has to offer.

Things to consider

When it comes to painting your home's exterior, choosing the right paint for the job is important. Your paint should be able to withstand the elements, including weather, sunlight, and temperature changes.

There are many types of exterior paint, each with their own unique qualities. This guide will help you decide which type is best for your home, based on the types of surfaces it'll be covering. You'll also want to make sure you use proper surface preparation techniques. You also may consider callin on the help of a good local painting company in your area.

First, consider the paint's color. Many inexpensive paints contain pigments that fade over time, especially in southern and direct sunlight. Dark colors tend to fade more quickly than light ones, so be cautious about choosing a dark shade. To reduce fading, choose a paint with titanium dioxide, a chemical that is expensive and usually found only in premium paint lines. You should also look for paints with UV protectants, which are especially useful if you're going for a faux texture.

Sheen is also important. High-gloss paints are more obvious, but they can camouflage minor imperfections. If you're painting a siding or brick, look for a flat finish. This will make the paint last longer. It's also important to use caulking that's specially designed for exterior surfaces.

The surface you're painting also plays a role in the paint's longevity. For example, homes that are exposed to sunlight will show premature signs of fading and cracking. The quality of the surface and prep work will also determine how long a paint job will stay in good condition. For example, the paint on a stucco house will last between 10 and 15 years. Wood, on the other hand, lasts only five to seven years before deterioration begins to affect its surface.

The most important thing to consider when choosing exterior paint is its sheen and durability. Usually, exterior paints are more expensive than interior paints. This is because interior paints can get toxic when used indoors and cannot last as long as exterior paints do. Furthermore, you should not use the same type of paint on both indoor and outdoor surfaces. This is because exterior paints are made for specific surfaces.

If you just moved into a new house, you're probably unsure of when the previous owners painted the exteriors. To make sure the exterior paint is in good condition, you can find out when it was painted. It is also important to find out what kind of paint was used. Higher quality paint in lighter hues and multi-coat jobs are more likely to last longer.

Acyrlic paint

Acrylic exterior paint is best for many different types of home exteriors, including siding, drywall, stucco, porch floors, and more. It offers a smooth and durable finish. It also dries much faster than oil-based paint.

Moreover, it is free from volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which can cause your home to suffer from deterioration. This paint is also suitable for wood siding, which expands and contracts with the weather.

Make sure you use the appropriate acrylic paint for the type of surface you're painting.

Oil-based paint

If you're painting the exterior of your home, oil-based paint is an excellent choice. It's more durable than water-based paint, and has a very smooth finish. Oil-based paint can withstand routine contact with water and elements, but it is not as breathable as water-based paint. It may also take more time to dry and is more difficult to remove if you make a mistake.

Another important factor to consider is the paint's shelf life. Oil-based paint will last the longest if it is sealed properly. When properly stored, oil-based paint will be able to last up to 15 years. But it takes much longer to dry than water-based paint. It also releases toxic fumes when it dries, which can cause fires.

Another factor is climate. While many paints are affected by local climate, a house that receives constant temperatures is more likely to retain its color. An oil-based exterior paint is best suited to areas that receive low humidity. Higher humidity and fog can prevent the paint from properly curing. This can cause the paint to chip or peel.

The quality of an oil-based exterior paint is a major factor in its longevity. When applied properly, two coats of paint should give good coverage. In most cases, you should repaint the exterior of your home every five to ten years. In addition to that, you should paint the wood surfaces every three to seven years.

Latex paint

Water-based latex paint is a versatile choice for both interior and exterior painting projects. It contains fewer toxins than oil-based paint, but it is more susceptible to freezing temperatures. The average lifespan of latex exterior paint is two to 10 years. However, it should be noted that freezing temperatures will cause latex to become lumpy. To fix this, gently stir the lumps out with a paint stick. If the lumps are too severe, you may need to dispose of the paint.

Top paints are resistant to UV rays, dirt, moisture, and mold. Most latex formulas are tintable and come in many colors, making them a good choice for many exterior painting projects. However, when choosing the right type of exterior paint, you need to consider the following factors:

When applying latex exterior paint, be sure to let it dry before applying another coat. While most latex paints can be applied to a surface within a few hours, you should make sure to wait four to six hours between coats. The amount of time needed for drying will vary, so you should check the paint can before using it.

Another factor to consider when choosing latex paint is how easy it is to clean. Compared to oil-based paints, latex exterior paint is easier to wipe down. However, if you plan on painting a large surface, you may need to consider other materials. For example, chalk paint has a flat appearance and is less durable than latex paint.

What paint should you choose for your home?

The types of exterior paint you choose can greatly affect the lifespan of your home. Lighter hues tend to last longer than dark ones. Exterior paint jobs that include multiple coats will last longer, too. However, improper care and maintenance can reduce the life of paint. Here are some tips to make sure your paint looks its best for years to come.

When choosing an exterior paint for your home, choose one that is long-lasting and resists the elements. A light-colored one will typically last longer than a dark one, because light-colored paints contain less pigment. If you're unsure of which color to choose, consult a top exterior painting professional. They can offer expert advice and help you achieve the look you're after.

The type of paint you choose should be compatible with the weather conditions in your area. Oil-based paints will take the longest time to cure, while latex and acrylics will dry quickly. It's important to avoid conditions like fog or high humidity, as they can prevent the paint from curing properly.

The exterior paint you choose for your home can last many years. The amount of time your paint stays on your home's exterior will depend on the climate in your area, the type of paint used, and the surface of your home. You should choose a paint that has the right durability and reflects the style and design of your home. For most exterior latex paints, you'll need to wait at least four hours before painting it again. In an ideal world, paint should be completely dry within 24 hours.

Using the right type of paint can help make your home look beautiful for years. Choosing a high-quality, light-colored paint that's applied in two or three coats is ideal for long-lasting results. For those who want a darker color, go with a dark-colored paint with titanium dioxide. This expensive ingredient is usually found in premium paint lines. It also helps protect the paint against fading.