Choosing Exterior House Paint and Stain

Every house will need painting some day and someone will have to choose what type of paint to use. There isn’t a simple answer such as “use this brand and it will last forever”. The type of finish you choose depends on many factors.

Type of surface affects the type of paint to use. Example, wood trim and siding expand and contract with the seasons plus can split over time. The paint needs to expand and contract with the wood without cracking. A good elastic paint is 100% Acrylic with a satin sheen – or stain with flat finish 100% acrylic.

The environment also affects the paint and the surface it’s applied to. Regional weather extremes need to be taken into account. Every region has specific needs as to the best possible house paint to use.

UV exposure is another factor that affects the finish paint. Most alkyd finishes degrade faster when exposed to UV light.

Where you purchase your paint also affects the choices you make. It is my belief that paint should be purchased from a paint store not from a home improvement center. A paint store offers regional specific knowledge and products that are best suited for your particular needs.

Choosing exterior paint or stain involves a lot of knowledge about regional weather and products best suited for a given surface. This knowledge comes from years of experience using different products.

Painting companies come and go faster than phone books can be printed. Getting your home painted can be frustrating enough without dealing with issues of poor quality.

If done correctly, a quality exterior paint job can maintain its beauty and durability for many, many years. Interiors even longer!

About The Author
Nick Dunse is a US Army Veteran who began his painting career in 1974 and works with his crew onsite.
ThinkPainting has been servicing and refinishing decks for our customers for many years. Call us for a free estimate or consultation at: (508) 740-7001 or visit their Rhode Island painting site.