Choosing the Right Exterior Paint

Provided By Trulia.com

The type of paint you'll use depends on the kind of surface to be painted - wood, aluminum, vinyl, stucco or masonry - and the type of finish you want. Exterior paint is specifically formulated to provide:

•Color and gloss retention
•Flexibility to withstand expansion and contraction due to weather
•Mildew resistance
Latex or Oil
Exterior house paints fall into one of two categories: latex or oil (alkyd). Each has different characteristics.

Latex
Get the longest-lasting finish with the best gloss retention. Latex paints are easy to work with, dry quickly and are extremely durable. Latex paints also clean up easily with soap and water.

Oil / Alkyd
Good adhesion, excellent durability and stain resistance make oil / alkyd-based paints excellent choices for exterior trim. Clean paint tools with mineral spirits.

Matching Paint to Surfaces
To ensure a quality paint job that will last, the paint you'll use depends on the type of surface you want to paint.

Walls
Because it's easy to work with, latex paint is an excellent choice for do-it-yourself projects. Latex paints can be applied over properly prepared wood, vinyl, aluminum and stucco.

Metal
Use either latex or oil/alkyd paint on properly primed iron or steel. You can apply latex directly on aluminum and galvanized metal. However, these metals need to be properly primed if you're using oil/alkyd-based paint.

Trim
Either latex or oil/alkyd paint is appropriate for trim. Gloss and high gloss finishes are generally your first choice, but flat or satin finishes are fine selections.

Selecting a Sheen
Exterior paint comes in a full range of sheens. The finish you choose will be based on the type of surface you're painting and the durability and final appearance you want to achieve.

Flat/ Matte
This finish softens the look of an exterior and helps hide surface blemishes. Flat finishes are ideal for body siding.

Satin
With its slight gloss, this finish offers the benefits of a flat finish with added cleanability. It works best for:

•Trim
•Window frames
•Shutters
•Surfaces that need routine cleaning
Gloss
This lustrous, durable finish is perfect for areas that require frequent cleaning. Gloss finishes, however, may accentuate surface imperfections. This finish is ideal for:

•Doors
•Garage doors
•Decorative metal (lamp posts, metal trim)
•Functional metal (gutters, downspouts, railings)
•Accent trim
High Gloss
This extremely hard and shiny finish provides a rich, smooth luster. Gloss finishes, however, may accentuate surface imperfections. This finish is excellent for:

•Front (main entry) doors
•Decorative fixtures
•Accent trim


Are you looking for a new home to jazz up? Give us a call at 972-772-7000 or email us at frontdesk552@kw.com.