Choosing a Weather Resistant Paint

When it's time to choose paint for home improvement projects, all paints are not created equal. Exterior paint surfaces require a weather resistant paint that's formulated especially for outdoor use. Exterior surfaces are often exposed to extreme fluctuations in temperatures, not only from season to season, but sometimes in the same day. An ability to withstand extreme temperatures, sun exposure and rainfall is a lot to ask from a paint.

Choose the right paint formula for the job. Since interior paint isn't formulated to take what nature throws its way, it should never be used outdoors. Interior paint is not even an option under a covered surface, such as a porch. Exterior paint not only has a different formula than interior paint, it has additives that protect the paint from sun's UV damage and mildewcides to prevent mold.

Quality should be the first consideration when buying a weather resistant exterior paint. It doesn't just add to the curb appeal, it adds a layer of protection from the elements. Don't buy the least expensive paint available since price can reflect the quality of ingredients. This doesn't mean you need to buy the most expensive exterior paint available on the market either to get high quality ingredients. Local paint stores and home improvement warehouses are loaded with excellent choices of quality exterior paint at affordable prices.

Opt for 100% acrylic latex paint for most exterior applications. Latex paint has many advantages over oil or alkyd based paint. It's better for the environment and cleans up with soap and water instead of mineral spirits. Latex also dries much faster than oil, which can be important in many climates. Faster dry time also means less chance of bugs, dust and debris settling on the surface of wet paint. Oil based paints can take days instead of hours to dry.

Although oil paint dries to a harder finish than latex, this is only beneficial on some surfaces, such as metal or concrete. While this hardness seems like a benefit, the rigid surface of oil paint can be problematic for wood and most other outdoor surfaces that swell and contract as temperatures fluctuate. Paint must withstand freezing and thawing. Latex paint is flexible, so it has the ability to stretch and move with its surface. This helps prevent cracking and peeling that allows moisture to penetrate the home's exterior surfaces.

Read the label of the paint for important information that varies with paint brands. The label will give specific instructions on the minimum and maximum temperatures for application. For example, some exterior paint must be applied when the air temperature is above 40 degrees in order to properly dry and cure. Follow directions on the label to be sure the brand you choose can live up to its full potential. Also follow the directions given for prepping the surface and for the recommended drying time between coats.

Consider an "all-in-one paint plus primer" made especially for exteriors. This allows you to skip purchasing and applying a separate primer. The thick consistency helps to seal the surface and require half the coats of a regular exterior paint. Be sure to prep all surfaces and sand any peeling or blistered paint before applying any paint or primer. A little preparation now can save an abundance of disappointment later.

Spend time at a local paint store or the paint department at home improvement warehouses. Their knowledgeable staff can help with all aspects of the decision making process, including helping with color choices for your home's exterior. Take advantage of inexpensive sample-size cans of paint and try them in several places on the exterior surface you'll be painting. This is a smart way to try out different colors before making a final paint purchase, since custom paint colors can't be returned for a refund.