How to Choose Exterior Paint
Choosing the Right Exterior Paint
The best results start with high-quality paint. Water-based latex paints are preferable to oil-based paints for most exterior applications. These formulas are flexible enough to expand and contract with the siding on a house. They’re also breathable (so they won't trap moisture and crack or peel), dry significantly faster than oil-based paints and are easy to clean with soap and water.
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| Water-based paint can be applied over oil-based paint, but oil-based paint shouldn't be applied over water-based. |
Exterior Paint Sheens
Here are things to consider when choosing an exterior paint finish:
Colour Selection
When selecting a colour, keep your home’s surroundings in mind. Do you want your home to stand out or blend in? Also consider the amount of light your home receives during the day. For shady areas, you may want a lighter colour to reflect more natural light, whereas sunny areas can handle a darker shade.
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| To make your colour choices easier, visit the Behr® Colour Solutions Centre at The Home Depot to explore exterior colour options. Behr® 8 oz. sample jars let you test your colour selection on your home's exterior surfaces with minimal investment. |
Behr Exterior Paints
Formula Types
Exterior paints have to contend with extreme weather conditions and are therefore designed to meet the specific requirements of your substrate. Paint types include: floor/porch, gutter, house/siding, masonry, pool/marine and roof.
| Outdoor Surface |
What You Should Know |
|---|---|
| Floor/Porch |
Oil and latex paints available; 100% acrylic latex lends the best results Provides weather-resistant coverage for garages, porches, decks and concrete surfaces |
| Gutter Paint |
Oil and latex paints are both available; oil is better for tin gutters Adheres well to galvanized steel and aluminum A galvanized metal primer must be applied before painting |
| House/Siding |
Oil and latex paints available, with latex a more popular choice due to its quick drying time and scrubbability Withstands wear and exposure to severe weather conditions |
| Masonry |
Usually latex paint formulas Ideal for stucco, concrete, cement and shingles May require a special pretreatment or bonding primer |
| Pool/Marine |
Look for a polymerized cement-based product for concrete pools Look for paints that provide stain and abrasion-resistance Be sure to check for compatibility with your surface (pool, concrete deck or spa) |
| Roof |
Look for an acrylic-latex blend of paint Most are mildew and algae-proof Should not be used for waterproofing or to repair roof leaks Can be tinted to match roof colour |
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| Direct sunlight and wind may cause paint to dry too quickly and create lap marks. In addition, strong winds may cause settled dirt to become airborne and adhere to the painted surface. Most exterior paints will not dry at temperatures cooler than 10°C, so check the label for temperature ranges before starting. |