When selecting the best house paint for exteriors, consider 100% acrylic latex paint, known for its durability and resistance to fading. This type of paint showcases excellent adhesion to various surfaces, ensuring long-lasting protection against harsh weather conditions. Brands like Sherwin-Williams, Benjamin Moore, and Behr have high-quality exterior paint options with superior UV resistance and mildew protection. For the finish, opting for a satin or semi-gloss can enhance washability while providing an attractive shine. To achieve the best results, ensure proper surface preparation and consider the climate in your region to choose the most suitable product.
Which House Paint Is Best For Exteriors
Durability
Acrylic latex paint is widely regarded as the best option for exterior surfaces due to its superior durability and weather resistance. Formulated to withstand harsh conditions, it provides a lifespan of 5 to 10 years, depending on the climate and surface preparation. Look for a paint with a high-quality finish, such as satin or semi-gloss, which can enhance water resistance and ease of cleaning. Brands like Sherwin-Williams Duration and Benjamin Moore Regal Select are popular for their long-lasting performance and coverage.
Weather Resistance
For exterior house paint, a 100% acrylic latex paint is recommended due to its superior weather resistance. Look for products specifically designed for harsh climates, providing UV protection and mildew resistance, often labeled as "weatherproof" or "all-weather." Brands like Sherwin-Williams Duration and Behr Premium Plus Ultra contain advanced resin technology that enhances durability against temperature fluctuations and moisture. Checking the product's ASTM (American Society for Testing and Materials) ratings can help ensure you're selecting a paint that meets high-performance standards in prolonged outdoor conditions.
UV Protection
For exterior house paint that offers excellent UV protection, opt for high-quality acrylic latex paints. These paints effectively resist fading and chalking due to their advanced formulations that reflect UV rays. Products containing titanium dioxide provide additional sun protection, ensuring vibrant color retention for years. Look for paints labeled as "UV resistant" or with a high durability rating to enhance the lifespan of your exterior finishes.
Ease of Application
Acrylic latex paint is widely regarded as the best choice for exterior surfaces, thanks to its ease of application and quick drying time, typically within 1-2 hours. This type of paint adheres well to various substrates, including wood, stucco, and vinyl, reducing the number of required coats and facilitating a smoother finish. With an average coverage of 300-400 square feet per gallon, it allows for quicker project completion, which is ideal for those looking to refresh their home's exterior. Look for formulations with built-in primers for enhanced adhesion and reduced prep work, making your painting experience even more efficient.
Mildew Resistance
For exterior house paint, opt for products specifically labeled as mildew-resistant, such as Benjamin Moore's Regal Select or Sherwin-Williams' Duration. These paints contain advanced mildewcides that inhibit mold and mildew growth, ensuring a longer-lasting finish. Look for paints with a high level of durability that can withstand moisture, rain, and UV exposure; for instance, a 100% acrylic formula is highly recommended. Invest in a paint with a minimum of a 25-year warranty to guarantee long-term protection against the elements and ensure your home maintains its aesthetics.
Color Retention
When selecting exterior house paint known for exceptional color retention, consider 100% acrylic latex paints, which are renowned for their durability and fade resistance. Brands like Sherwin-Williams Duration or Benjamin Moore Regal Select often score high in performance tests, offering formulations that protect against UV degradation. A quality exterior paint typically contains advanced pigments that maintain vibrancy for 8 to 10 years, ensuring your home looks fresh longer. For optimal results, always consult the manufacturer's data sheets, which provide specific performance ratings and color longevity expectations tailored to your local climate.
Surface Compatibility
When selecting exterior house paint, prioritize surface compatibility to ensure durability and adherence. Acrylic latex paints are ideal for various surfaces, including wood, stucco, and masonry, providing flexibility and resistance to fading. For metal surfaces, a rust-inhibitive alkyd paint is recommended, as it offers excellent adhesion while preventing corrosion. Always check the manufacturer's guidelines for compatibility with your specific surface to achieve the best results.
Eco-friendliness
When selecting exterior house paint, consider products labeled as low-VOC or zero-VOC to minimize harmful emissions while still providing excellent durability. Brands like Benjamin Moore's Natura and Sherwin-Williams' Harmony offer eco-friendly options that combine performance with sustainable practices. Look for paints that contain natural pigments and are free from toxic additives, ensuring a healthier environment for you and your family. It's also beneficial to choose paints with high UV resistance, helping to prolong the lifespan of your exterior finish while reducing the frequency of reapplication.
Brand Reputation
Sherwin-Williams' Duration series is often regarded as one of the top choices for exterior paint due to its exceptional durability and weather resistance, ensuring longevity for your home's facade. Benjamin Moore's Regal Select is another highly reputable option, known for its fade resistance and excellent color retention over time, making it ideal for maintaining curb appeal. Behr Premium Plus provides a budget-friendly alternative without sacrificing quality, boasting a strong reputation for its stain-blocking ability and mildew resistance. Choosing a paint brand with a proven track record, like these, can significantly enhance your home's exterior protection and aesthetic appeal.
Price and Value
When selecting the best exterior house paint, both price and value are crucial factors. Acrylic latex paint, generally priced between $30-$60 per gallon, offers excellent durability and fade resistance, making it a popular choice for homeowners. Conversely, oil-based paints, though slightly more expensive at $40-$80 per gallon, provide a rich finish and superior adhesion to surfaces, ideal for challenging climates. Investing in quality paint can save you money in the long run by reducing the frequency of repainting, with a lifespan ranging from 5 to 15 years depending on the type and application.