How to Compare Exterior Paints and choose what is right for your project

House paint is made to cover siding and exterior trim.  It is made to be more durable because exterior paint contains additional ingredients that help them last longer and resist moisture better.  This of course does raise the price.  The most important thing to remember…Most painting projects turn out to be bigger than you think.  Make sure you have the time and the will power to finish.  Get all your supplies ready ahead of time, enlist help if you can!  Cover anything that could be ruined by "spilt paint" and turn on some music and get going.

It is necessary to know what kind of paint to buy for the project you are working on. This will ensure even coverage and a long lasting wear.

Here is a list of Exterior paint types, their uses and the application process.

Metal Paint:

1. Metal paint is solvent (or water thinned) and include rust resisting priming ingredients.  Remember that all bare spots should be primed first.
2. To apply: Brush, roll or spray on for a broad range of finish effects.

Vinyl Latex:

1. Easy cleanup
2. Long lasting, durability
3. Fast Drying
4. Perfect for amateurs. 
5. Can be applied over damp surfaces
6. Naturally mildew proof (however it is not compatible with a previous solvent based finish)
7. When applying latex you do not want to "thin" this.  Apply with one stroke of the brush or roller, this will stop thin spots.

Oil Paint:

1. This is very slow drying and takes up to 24 hours to dry
2. Oil paint has a very strong odor
3. Very Messy cleanup
4. Not popular for amateurs.
5. The drying time (because it is so long) can cause marring and bug marks.

Acrylic Latex:

1. This is the highest quality latex paint
2. Has 100 percent acrylic resins (vinyl resins are not as durable.
3. Dries faster than most
4. Covers just about anything, including building material, including masonry and properly primed metal.
5. This application technique is the same as Vinyl latex paint

Primers:

1. Kills stains
2. Use prior to applying latex paint over.
3. Alcohol based primer is the most effective.
4. Application is just like painting but is easier than the actual finishing.

Stain:

1. Provide Transparent, semi transparent or opaque finishes
2. Good for natural wood and trim.
3. Some include preservatives or offer a weathered look
4. Apply with a brush, roll or spray it on almost any project

Buying the correct paint for the job is essential in the outcome of the work.  Base your selection on the material you are using, the skills of the painter and the equipment you plan to use.