subject: What Are The Types Of Exterior House Paint [print this page] What Are The Types Of Exterior House Paint
Paint is decorative, but that's not all its for. The paint on your house is a protective covering that keeps the wood or vinyl underneath protected from rain and snow. Its this primary purpose behind paint that makes the number of products available on your hardware store's shelves so complicated.
If it were just all about color and looks, anyone could pick paint easily. Since color isn't all there is, it is important to know the different types of exterior paints available and what they are for. If you want your paint to last, the most important thing after proper surface prep is choosing the right paint for your needs.
The 4 basic parts of exterior paint are: pigments, binders, additives and solvents. Every finish type has a different blend of these things to make up the paint's specific properties. The binder holds the pigments together and keeps them on the surface, reflecting light. The additives and solvents make up the other properties of the paint. Things like mildew resistance, paint hardness, protective qualities, etc. The solvent itself also controls the liquid state of the paint and is what's responsible for how long it takes to dry. This drying time can be a part of what dictates how well the paint sticks and how long it lasts.
The two major types of house paint for exterior are latex and alkyd (water and oil-based). Latex paints are usually the paint of choice for do-it-yourself painters and are more eco-friendly while alkyds are often used by professionals because they go on thicker and are easier to spread.
Most latex paints have a fast drying time and come in a huge variety of color options. They are not always as long-lasting, however, and usually require more labor to apply to avoid marks from brushes, rollers, or over spray.
Alkyds have oil in their base and are thicker. This means they have a longer drying time, but give a better coating. Most quality exterior paints for wood and other common surfaces are alkyd-based.
Some other types of paint are not as common, but can be considered for some circumstances. A growing number of people are using elastomeric paints, which have a flexible, rubber-like quality when applied. These are becoming popular masonry finishes, though they were once mainly only for semi-flexible structures (like bridges) to keep the paint from chipping. The elastomeric is thick and bonds well with surfaces, covering small gaps and holding its finish even if the surface flexes due to weather.
Another popular alternative is urethane. This paint is used on wood floor surfaces like porches. This is a tough, durable paint with a beautiful shine that can set off the wood it covers. Urethane should not be confused with epoxy.
Choosing the right paint means you'll save money over the long run. It makes the job easier and extends the time between paintings.
Check out Naperville Painting if you are in Naperville and want a house painter.
