Exterior Paint For Your Home

Find the right exterior paint with the help of Blain’s Farm & Fleet.

Does your home need a little TLC? Are you looking to up your home’s resale value? Giving your home’s exterior a fresh coat of paint may be just what it needs to improve your home’s curb appeal. Learn what kind of exterior paint is best for your home in our handy guide from Blain’s Farm & Fleet.

There is a lively debate as to whether water-based or oil-based exterior paint is the best for a home. While there are many pros and cons, it really comes down to what is best for the homeowner. Is the exterior paint already on your home water-based or oil-based? Is your exterior surface chalky? What kind of surface are you planning on painting?

Water-Based Exterior Paint

Water-based exterior paints come in two varieties: acrylic and latex. There are a few differences when it comes to water-based paints. Latex paint dries fast and cleans up easier than oil-based paint, requiring only soap and water. Another advantage is that latex exterior paints with an all-acrylic binder expand in warmer temperatures and contract in cooler temperatures, making them durable under varying conditions.

Oil-Based Exterior Paint

Oil-based exterior paint sticks better to most surfaces. However, it should not be used on newer materials such as concrete or stucco without putting a sealer or a primer on the surface prior to painting with exterior paint. Oil-based paint tends to “drag” more than the water-based paints; it goes on heavier but is better if you need one coat hiding and coverage when painting.

It is not suggested to use oil-based paints if your home is in an area with direct sunlight. The oil-based color is more likely to fade and chalk in sunlight.

Oil-based paints have a vegetable oil base, which can provide nutrients for mildew growth. Look for an oil-based exterior paint that contains a mildewcide to minimize growth on your home’s exterior.

Exterior Paint Finishes

Gloss

Gloss exterior paint is easy to clean and resists scuffing. It’s best used in high traffic areas such as door jambs and window casings. It can also provide a nice contrast with the siding when painted on shutters and trim-work. Gloss paint shows imperfections, so it is best to not use gloss exterior paint in large siding areas.

Semi-Gloss

This has less shine than gloss paint, but is more durable and easy to clean. Semi-gloss paints are best used when painting trim-work and casings.

Satin

Satin paint, also known as eggshell or low luster satin exterior paint, has a low sheen and works well on siding.

Flat

Flat exterior paint is the best choice when painting vinyl or aluminum siding. It hides imperfections and does not splatter as much as other types of paint. Flat paint is also easier to touch up.