There are a variety of
paints to choose from for the exteriors of your house.
Depending on the type of finish you desire you can
choose paints for the exteriors. The information given
below gives you a brief idea of the types and the best
exterior paints available in the market and gives you
important characteristics of each type.
Latex paint is durable, dries fast and easy
to cleanup. As it is mildew proof it can be applied over damp
exterior as well. It has to be applied without using a thinner
as it is. Do not spread too thin while applying.
Acrylic paint is a type of latex paint. This
paint is thinned with water and can be applied on any kind of
surface including primer-applied metal. This too dries
rapidly.
Alkyd paint is a synthetic paint that has to
be diluted with solvent. This paint is a little like oil based
paints but dries quickly. Can be used over old oil based paint
or alkyd based paint as it covers and hides perfectly.
Oil paint takes a long time to dry up and it
quite messy. But is extremely durable. As it takes a long time
to dry, using it for exteriors can be a problem due to insects
and rain.
Primers are used to seal fresh wood and
metal. Use only one coat of primer. The same applies for
finish use only one coat. Primer cannot be used as finish and
vice versa. Applying primer is easier than applying finish,
but as the surface is fresh a lot of paint is required.
Stains can be solvent thinned or water
thinned and produce a transparent, semitransparent or solid
finish for original wood siding and trim. Some stains have
preservatives and other give wood an antique finish.
