Exterior Paint Options for Your Home
Paint choice is an important part of any exterior home painting project. Knowing what is available can aid in your paint selection decisions.
Oil-Based Paints
The base material in an oil-based paint can be derived from natural plant oils, or it may be synthetic oil. It provides a high sheen and strong surface seal, which is why it is prized for exterior walls. They are especially well suited for high-traffic areas, such as on porches or around doorways.
The main concern with oil-based exterior paint is that it will sometimes yellow as it ages. Fortunately, many modern paint manufacturers have taken steps to rectify this problem. Look for brands that provide colour warranties if you are concerned about yellowing.
Water-Based Paints
Water-based exterior paints are sometimes referred to as latex paint. As the name implies, water (in conjunction with plastic binders and pigments) is used instead of oil. It provides rich colour and can be cleaned up without the use of caustic paint solvents. It's preferred by some because it produces less odour and dries quickly.
There are some concerns with a water-based option, as they do require more coats to provide the same coverage as an oil-based paint. They may also weather from exterior surfaces more quickly, but that may not be a concern if you like to update paint colours every few years.
Primers
Primers are the first layer of paint put down. Their task is to create an even surface for better colour coverage and to cover any inconsistencies in the base surface. Some have special qualities, such as stopping the spread of rust on metal components that adorn your home's exterior.
Use the same type of primer as exterior paint, such as water-based primer with water-based paint, or an oil-based primer for oil-based paint. It's also recommended to choose a primer hue in an intensity that matches that of the exterior paint. If you are painting a light colour, then opt for white or light grey primer. For dark paints, a dark grey primer will reduce the number of paint coats necessary for full coverage.
Specialty Paints
There are some specialty paint types available in both oil and water-based options. For example, mildew-fighting paints are preferred in areas prone to moisture and humidity as they will arrest the growth of moulds and mildew.
Some exterior paints include special fire retardants as well, which can be useful on walls exposed to fire risks — such as those that back up to a porch and barbecue grill.
Contact an exterior house painter to learn more about the best options for your project.
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