Tips For Making That Exterior Paint Job Last

Do you have plans for a new coat of paint for your home this spring? A brand new exterior is a great way to freshen up after a long winter. Whether painting a brand new house or revamping an old home, one thing on your mind should be: how does the paint hold up to the test of time?

As all the great artists know, there are many things that contribute to a high-quality paint job that remains pristine over time. Of course, the paint itself can make a world of difference, but the best paint on the market could still hold up poorly if preparation and maintenance are ignored. These factors, along with many more, could be a pitfall for homeowners if they are not careful - luckily, we’re here to help! 

Maintaining Exterior Paint Coatings

In order to maximize the longevity of your exterior paint job we recommend that you always perform routine seasonal maintenance after the job has been completed. Here are a few things you can do to throughout the year:

1. Wash Your House Regularly - Depending on the material of your home you may need to wash at different frequencies or with a different level of intensity. For example metal and vinyl sides should be pressure washed once annually, whereas wood or other softer materials should really only be washed when there is mildew or dirt build up.
2. Touch Up Chips and Cracks - When the lower layers of paint or bare materials are exposed from a crack in the paint there poses a risk of further issues spreading from exposure to UV rays.
3. Clear Vegetation - Paint and plants have a love hate relationship. When paired together they do increase your curb appeal but the moisture and chemicals from plants like vines or moss can damage your paint.
4. Keep Gutters Clear - I know what you're thinking, what do your gutters have to do with your paint? When they build up with leaves, dirt, and other gunk there will be liquid overflow that can stain your paint that can lead to costly repairs.
5. (For Wood) Regularly Seal or Stain - Staining acts as a penetrative sealant that safeguards the wood fibers from moisture. It also prevents issues like cracks and chips commonly seen in painted siding. 

Maintaining your exterior paint not only enhances the aesthetics of your home but also plays a crucial role in prolonging its lifespan. By regularly inspecting for signs of wear and addressing any issues promptly, you can ensure that your paint job remains in optimal condition for years to come. However, despite diligent maintenance efforts, it's natural to wonder: How long should paint actually last?

‍

How Long Does A Good Coat Of Exterior Paint Usually Last?

It’s hard to say exactly how long an exterior paint job should last because there are many factors that could come into play. There are controllable factors like quality of paint and maintenance, but there also uncontrollable factors like weathering or UV exposure. That being if proper paint is used and taken care a good exterior paint job can last up to 10 years.

‍

So How Do You Choose the Best Paint For Your Exterior?

Once again it depends! There are generally three main types of paint formulas that are best for an exterior painting project; latex, acrylic, and oil-based. Depending on aesthetic preferences, your local weather climate, and type of material your homes siding is made of.

‍

Latex: When seeking a budget-friendly paint alternative, latex paint emerges as a practical choice. Being water-based, latex paints offer ease of application and cleanup, distinguishing them from other exterior paint varieties. Additionally, their quick drying time enhances efficiency. Similar to acrylic paint, latex paint exhibits thermal expansion and contraction properties, adapting seamlessly to temperature changes. It's worth noting that both interior and exterior latex paints are available, so when selecting paint for your exterior project, opt for a product explicitly formulated for outdoor applications.

‍

Acrylic: Typically we recommend the use of acrylic paints for their premium quality and advantageous properties. Acrylic paints are formulated to result in a dense and viscous consistency. The chemical composition of these paints imparts elasticity, allowing them to flex and adapt to temperature variations, which is particularly beneficial for exterior applications. Additionally, when it comes to durability and longevity, acrylic exterior paints excel when compared to other options, making them an optimal choice for surfaces such as wood, aluminum, fiber cement, as well as stucco, plaster, and drywall.

‍

Oil-based: Due to stringent health regulations, oil-based paints are less commonly utilized in contemporary settings. These paints emit potentially harmful fumes during application, which can be overwhelming for individuals involved in the painting process. Generally, their use is safer in outdoor settings where ventilation is ample, as compared to indoor environments. It's important to acknowledge the drawbacks of oil-based paints. They are more prone to cracking and fading over time when compared to latex and acrylic paints. Additionally, due to their oil-based composition, cleaning oil-based paint proves to be a challenging task.

‍

Nevertheless, oil-based paint remains an optimal choice for specific exterior painting ventures. Notably, these paints exhibit reduced shrinkage compared to their latex and acrylic counterparts, making them particularly suitable for high-traffic areas. They also boast a smooth application and dry to a resilient, hard surface, rendering them ideal for porch floors, doors, trim, and intricate detailing.

‍

All-in-all

‍

Planning a fresh coat of paint for your home this spring isn't just about aesthetics; it's about longevity and protection. With attention to detail, from paint selection to maintenance, you can ensure your exterior paint job withstands the test of time. By following our tips for maintenance and choosing the right paint type for your needs, your home will remain vibrant and protected for years to come.