How Do You Make Exterior Paint Last Longer?

Your home’s exterior walls are undeniably one of the first things people notice. There’s a saying that goes “first impressions matter” – and this can apply to your home as well.

If you’re building a new home or giving it a new look, you may be wondering how to make exterior paint last longer, so it looks better for years to come. There are a couple of tips you may want to consider to get a longer-lasting exterior paint job for your home. Learn more through this quick read.

What Is the Longest-Lasting Exterior Paint You Can Use?

Experts would recommend that you use either latex- or oil-based paints for exterior walls. Here’s how they stack up:

• Latex paints: These are a good choice if your exterior walls are frequently exposed to sunlight. Latex paints tend to expand and contract along with the weather and temperature.
  
  What’s great about latex paints would be their washability or their ability to be easily cleaned with water and soap. They can also dry within a couple of hours, and you can apply succeeding coats in as fast as four to six hours. Moreover, water-based paints, specifically latex paints with an acrylic binder, can better withstand weather conditions like sun and heavy rain.
• Oil-based paints: Just like latex paints, oil-based paints can also be cleaned, albeit with a paint thinner, and are good at withstanding rain. You can use this paint if you’re painting over substrates or surfaces that have been previously painted with oil-based paints.
  
  You may just need a little patience if you’re using these paints as they dry slower (in at least six to eight hours). It can also take at least 24 hours before you can apply a second coat.
  
  Take note of the paint finishes you choose as well, as it can impact how the resulting paint job will look like:
• Gloss: Considered the most durable and easy-to-clean, paints with a glossy finish are best applied on high-traffic and constantly used areas. However, glossy paints tend to highlight imperfections on the surface.
• Semi-gloss: If you’re not a fan of the shine but want a finish that is still durable and easy-to-clean, semi-gloss paints are your best option. Paints that come in this finish are good for use in high-moisture areas.
• Satin or eggshell: If you’re painting in areas that deal with moderate traffic or on decorative surfaces, satin or eggshell paints are your best choice. These have the right amount of sheen and washability.
• Flat or matte: If you aim to hide surface imperfections, flat or matte paints can work for you.

Why the Quality of Your Paint Matters

More than the type of paint you choose, make sure you also look for a high-quality paint that will provide better coverage and color payoff. While these paints can be more expensive at first glance, there’s a big chance that you’ll get good results compared to cheaper products.

Plus, if you choose high-quality paint from the get-go, you may get your money’s worth and save some cash too! This is because you will have walls that look good even with little to no maintenance. Doing so will reduce the need for repainting and buying paints and other materials in the coming months or years. Here are some qualities that you should look for when buying exterior paints:

• Durability
• Color and gloss retention
• Coverage
• Weather and moisture resistance

Other Tips for Long-Lasting Exterior Paint Jobs

When you’re ready to paint or repaint exterior walls, take note of these tips to ensure better longevity of your paint job:

• Make sure you work on a clean surface. Remove dirt and dust from the surface with a pressure washer or other similar cleaning devices.
• Check for damaged surfaces around the exterior. If there are cracks or holes, apply an epoxy filler with a spackle knife. Afterward, sand the surface with a sanding block.
• Remove chipped or loose paint with a sanding block. 
• Discard or replace rotten wood trim. You can also opt to use a wood hardener and a wood filler to work on certain areas.
• Take note of weather conditions and plan before painting. Some paints are best applied at certain temperatures and weather conditions. Ideally, try to paint on days when it’s not too hot and/or when you’re not expecting sudden showers.
• Protect plants, shrubs, and the ground from paint splatters. Cover them with drop cloths and weigh them down if needed. Do the same thing in case you have outdoor furniture, hoses, or grills too.
• When painting, start at the top and work your way down. This technique can help control streaks and let you work on slight mistakes easily. 

Now that you know more, it’s time to apply these tips on how to make your exterior walls look better and last longer with a fresh coat of paint. Feel free to talk to a professional as well to know more about the surface you currently have and how to work with it better.

Ready to look for high-quality and durable exterior house paint? With Island Premium Paints, you can. Choose from a variety of paints in different colors and finishes that’ll suit your home. Island Paints is the first local brand to have a Product Satisfaction Guarantee, and you’ll find the shade that’s perfect for you.

Check out other home improvement and decoration tips when you visit the Island Premium Paints today and be inspired!

Sources:

https://www.hgtv.com/design/decorating/design-101/how-to-properly-paint-your-homes-exterior 

https://www.hgtv.com/outdoors/outdoor-remodel/essential-prep-for-home-exterior-painting-pictures 

https://islandpaints.wpengine.com/home-decorating-tips/choosing-exterior-paint/ 

https://www.bobvila.com/articles/best-exterior-paint/ 

https://www.paintzen.com/advice/what-is-the-best-exterior-paint-for-rain 

https://www.imageworkspainting.com/blog/the-7-most-important-things-to-consider-when-buying-exterior-paint