The Ultimate Guide to Exterior Painting

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Exterior paint is the first line of defense when it comes to protecting your home. It’s also one of the most cost-effective ways to improve the curb appeal of your property. The right exterior paint can make an uninteresting home look brand new, which is why it’s important to choose the right exterior paint and apply it correctly. There are several different factors that go into choosing the perfect exterior paint for your home such as: location, exposure, viewing angle from the street, humidity and more. In this blog post, we’ll explore all of these variables so you can select the best exterior paint for your needs.

 

What is Exterior Paint?

Exterior paint is the protective coating applied to the outside of a building to protect it from the elements. It’s important to note that exterior paint is not the same as interior paint. Interior paint is applied to protect the walls and surfaces inside your home while exterior paint is applied to protect the outside of your home. Exterior paint is a unique type of paint that has several important qualities. For example, exterior paint is typically thicker than interior paints to withstand the elements. Exterior paints also have low-viscosity so they’re easier to apply and they dry faster to prevent moisture damage. Exterior paints also have different color options than interior paints. Exterior paints are available in darker colors to match the natural elements of your surroundings and blend in. Exterior paints are available in oil and water-based formulas as well as various sheens, including flat, semi-gloss and gloss. Exterior paints with a gloss finish are typically used in warm, humid climates like the Southeastern United States. Flat or semi-gloss paints are typically used in colder climates.

 

Why Repaint Your Home’s Exterior?

The exterior of your home takes a beating from the elements and naturally starts to fade over time. Exterior paint does not last forever, and most homes require a repainting every 3-5 years. Since exterior paint plays such an important role in the longevity and beauty of your home, it’s essential to select a high-quality exterior paint. The right exterior paint will protect your home from the elements and make it last longer. Exterior paint is typically less expensive than replacing your roof or siding, making it a cost-effective way to improve the exterior of your home. The right exterior paint also has the ability to increase the value of your property.

 

How to Choose the Right Exterior Paint for You

Before you head to the store to purchase the first can of paint you see, there are several factors you should consider to make sure you select the right exterior paint for your home. Location – If you live in a coastal area, you’ll need an exterior paint that can withstand moisture and salt. If you live in an arid environment like the desert, you’ll need a paint that can combat extreme dryness. If you live in a temperate environment, you can typically use any exterior paint. Exposure – Where your home is located on your property plays a major role in how often you need to repaint. If your home is in an area that gets a lot of sun, it will naturally fade faster than areas that receive less sun. Viewing Angle from the Street – The viewing angle from the street is another important factor when choosing the right exterior paint for your home. If you want your home to blend in with the natural environment, select a paint that’s close to the color of the surroundings. However, if you want your home to stand out, select a paint that’s different from your surroundings. Humidity – Select an exterior paint that’s appropriate for your climate.

 

3 Important Factors when Selecting Exterior Paint

Location – As mentioned above, your location plays a major role in the longevity of your exterior paint. If you live in an arid desert, you can typically use any exterior paint. If you live in a temperate climate, you can typically use any exterior paint. If you live in a marine environment, you can use any exterior paint. Exposure – Where your home is located on your property plays a major role in how often you need to repaint. If your home is in an area that gets a lot of sun, it will naturally fade faster than areas that receive less sun. Viewing Angle from the Street – The viewing angle from the street is another important factor when selecting the right exterior paint for your home. If you want your home to blend in with the natural environment, select a paint that’s close to the color of the surroundings. However, if you want your home to stand out, select a paint that’s different from your surroundings.

 

Understanding the Differences Between Exterior Paint Brands

When it comes to selecting exterior paint, one thing people don’t often consider is the difference in brands. The same paint can be sold under a variety of different brands. But the formula used in each brand can vary, which is why it’s important to consider the differences between exterior paint brands. Cost – The first difference between exterior paint brands is the cost. Exterior paint costs vary depending on the brand you select. Color – The color of exterior paint is also different from brand to brand. Make sure you check the color of each brand to ensure you select the color you want. Sheen – Sheen is the level of shine or glossiness in the paint. The sheen you select will depend on the type of look you’re going for. Flat is typically used in areas that receive a lot of sun. Semi-gloss is typically used in areas that receive less sun. And gloss is typically used in areas that receive little sun.

 

How to Prepare for Exterior Painting

Before you paint your home’s exterior, you’ll want to make sure it’s properly prepared. Here are some important steps to prepare your home for exterior painting. Clean your home’s exterior – Remove any dirt, debris or leaves from your home’s exterior before painting. You may also want to power wash your home’s exterior to remove any dirt or grime. Repair cracks and holes – Before painting, repair any holes or cracks in your home’s exterior. Exterior paint won’t properly adhere to a cracked surface, hindering its ability to protect your home. Sand rough surfaces – Sand rough surfaces, like wood or siding, to create a smooth surface for the paint to adhere to.

 

3 Steps to Properly Paint your House’s Exterior

Now that you’ve considered the factors above, let’s talk about the actual process of exterior painting. Select the exterior paint you want – Once you’ve considered all of the factors above, you’re ready to select the exterior paint you want to use. If you’re repainting the exterior of your home, you can typically use the same exterior paint you used before. Prep your home’s exterior – Before applying the new coat of exterior paint, make sure your home’s exterior is properly prepared. Apply the exterior paint – Now that your home’s exterior is ready to be painted, it’s time to apply the new coat of exterior paint.

 

Conclusion

Exterior paint is the first line of defense when it comes to protecting your home from the elements. To ensure you select the right exterior paint for your home, you’ll want to consider the location, exposure, viewing angle from the street and humidity of your environment. Next, you’ll want to select the right exterior paint brand based on cost, color and sheen. Finally, you’ll want to properly prepare your home’s exterior for painting before applying a new coat of exterior paint. Once you follow these steps, you can rest assured that your home is protected against Mother Nature.