Choosing The Best Exterior Paint

December 12, 2023

A Fresh Coat of Exterior Paint: Transforming Your Home

A fresh coat of exterior paint can completely transform a house, going beyond a simple color change. It’s a reflection of pride and personality, and a vital shield against the elements. But achieving this transformation requires careful planning. This guide will walk you through the essential steps, from choosing the right paint to maintaining your home’s new look.

Selecting the Right Exterior Paint Type

Choosing the right exterior paint is crucial, as it provides both protection and lasting color in various weather conditions. The sheer number of options can be overwhelming, but understanding the characteristics, prices, and benefits of each type will simplify the decision. Think of your paint as a suit of armor, protecting your home from the elements for years to come.

Acrylic Paints:

Acrylic paints are versatile and durable, typically lasting 3 to 6 years. Their water-based composition makes them ideal for outdoor use, offering flexibility, elasticity, and excellent adhesion to various materials. Like a good suit of armor, they resist stains and provide waterproofing.

Proper surface preparation is crucial for successful application. Painting a house usually takes 4 to 5 days. Avoid companies that cut corners on prep work, which should include thorough cleaning and surface preparation before applying thin, evenly coated layers with appropriate drying times.

Oil-Based Paints:

Oil-based paints are known for their tough, protective finish, offering excellent durability and moisture resistance. However, they require mineral spirits or thinner for cleanup, unlike water-based acrylics.

Choosing the Ideal Paint Sheen

The paint sheen plays a significant role in both the appearance and durability of your home’s exterior. Options range from flat to gloss, each offering varying levels of shine and protection.

Flat Sheen:

Flat sheen paint provides a smooth, even finish, similar to a suit of armor designed to absorb impact. While it offers a modern look, flat sheens are not recommended for exterior use due to their lower washability and durability.

Satin Sheen:

Satin sheen paints offer a subtle gloss and a silky texture, creating an elegant look ideal for exterior surfaces. More durable than flat or matte finishes, satin is easy to maintain. Gentle power washing with mild soap and a damp cloth is recommended to preserve the finish.

Semi-Gloss and Gloss Sheens:

Semi-gloss and gloss exterior paints provide excellent protection with a shiny, high-sheen finish. Their durability and stain resistance make them suitable for areas requiring frequent cleaning or exposed to moisture. However, these sheens can highlight surface imperfections if the preparation is inadequate. Thorough surface preparation is essential for a flawless finish. Cleaning with gentle power washing and mild soap is recommended.

Top Exterior Paint Color Trends for 2025

Current trends emphasize timeless elegance, such as white trim paired with gray walls and black shutters. Bold colors like pale greens and dark blues also remain popular choices for a more modern look.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Exterior Paint Colors

Choosing the right exterior paint color is like selecting the perfect suit of armor – it should complement your home’s architecture and reflect your personal style. Consider your home’s architectural style: muted greens or browns often suit Craftsman homes, while bolder tones are appropriate for Victorian houses. Also, remember that darker colors absorb heat, while lighter colors reflect it, impacting indoor temperatures. Selecting a color that complements both your property and the surrounding environment enhances curb appeal and adds value. If you have a homeowner’s association (HOA), ensure your color choices are approved before painting.

Preparing Your Home’s Exterior for Painting

Proper preparation is crucial for a successful paint job. This includes cleaning the surface to remove dirt, grime, and mildew, scraping off any loose or peeling paint, sanding to create a smooth surface, repairing imperfections with appropriate fillers or caulk, and finally, applying a primer to enhance adhesion and durability. Neglecting these steps can result in poor paint adhesion, an uneven finish, and a shorter lifespan for your paint job. A good exterior paint should last 3 to 6 years, but this depends heavily on prep work and the quality of paint used. For a longer-lasting and more cost-effective solution, consider Home Shield Coating®, which eliminates the need for frequent repainting and is ideal for various surfaces.

Expert Advice on Painting Techniques and Tools

Painting can be challenging, even for experienced DIYers. Seeking expert advice can help avoid common mistakes and achieve a professional finish. Professional techniques include proper surface preparation, using high-quality materials, painting from top to bottom, following safety guidelines, and choosing the right paint for each surface. Specialized tools and techniques, such as “W” strokes with brushes or rollers (using a 3/8- to 1/2-inch nap), ensure even primer coats and smooth final layers. Thorough cleaning before painting is also essential.

Maintaining Your Home’s Exterior Paint Job

Proper maintenance is key to keeping your home’s exterior paint looking its best. This includes cleaning the exterior every two years and inspecting for fading or cracking. Addressing issues like peeling paint promptly will extend the life of your paint job.

Hiring a Professional Painter vs. DIY

Homeowners often weigh the pros and cons of DIY versus hiring a professional painter. DIY painting can be satisfying and save on labor costs, but it can also be time-consuming, especially for larger homes. Hiring a professional ensures a better finish, but the cost will vary depending on the project size, materials, and complexity. Consider these factors, along with estimated completion times and crew size, before making your decision. The average cost to paint an exterior varies significantly.

Exterior Painting Questions & Answers

How long will exterior paint last?

Most exterior paints last an average of 3 to 5 years, which is why most paint contractors offer only a 1- to 2-year labor warranty. However, more permanent and cost-effective alternatives, like Home Shield Coating®, are available.

What’s the best exterior house paint?

Exterior paint is often designed to last only 3 to 6 years, encouraging repeat business. Many paint contractors send reminders around year three, suggesting it’s time to repaint. The truth is, even the “best” exterior paint will eventually need to be redone.

What is the most popular exterior paint finish?

Satin or eggshell finishes are popular choices for their attractive appearance on home exteriors.

What are the advantages of using acrylic paints for the exterior of a house?

Acrylic paints offer easy application, strong adhesion, exceptional durability, and protection against fading and cracking, making them a top choice for exterior applications.

How often should I have my home cleaned to maintain the exterior paint job?

It is recommended to have your home’s exterior professionally cleaned every two years to maintain its appearance and prolong the life of the paint job.