One size does not fit all when it comes to exterior paint
Whether you’re painting your home, a fence, or a deck, it’s easy to get caught up contemplating which type of exterior paint is best. The answer depends on your preferences—and it goes a lot further than simply choosing the best paint color in the prettiest finish. While that is important, it’s all (well, mostly) about the paint’s binder.
All paints are made from three different substances: solvents, pigments, and binders. Exterior paints are traditionally labeled by their binder—whether it’s acrylic resin, polyvinyl resin, or some type of oil. This gives them their texture, durability, water resistance, and all the other qualities you’d want in paint. So, how do you choose the best outdoor paint for any surface? Here’s what you need to know.
With all the different types of exterior paints on the market, it can be challenging to know which exterior paint is right for your home. Let's break down some of the biggest factors to consider when choosing outdoor paint to help narrow down your options.
The type of surface you're painting
Drying time
Paint durability
Weather resistance qualities
Color longevity
Amount of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in the paint
Lowest and highest temperatures for applying the paint
Your climate zone and humidity levels
The application method you choose, like sprayers, rollers, or brushes
Latex paint, which is made from synthetic binders like acrylic resin and polyvinyl acetate, is one of the most popular types of paint for a reason. This water-based paint is budget-friendly and can significantly save you on the cost to paint your house. It also expands and contracts as temperature fluctuates, making it a good choice for temperature-sensitive materials like vinyl siding (though you still should choose a latex acrylic paint specifically formulated for vinyl siding). Since it’s not always the most durable, you should choose a latex paint specifically formulated for outdoor use.
Budget-friendly
Easy to apply and clean
Flexible, breathable, and mildew resistant
Non-flammable and low VOCs
Many color and finish options
Ideal for siding of all types, porches, and patios
Poor durability in harsh weather
Can look streaky on metal without multiple coats
Can cause wood to swell
Requires prep and primer before painting
Hard to avoid brush marks since it dries so fast
Sherwin-Williams Duration Exterior Acrylic Latex: It is a premier, mildew-resistance paint propelled by innovative acrylic copolymers that assure longevity. Its water-based formulation minimizes harmful fumes during application and drying. Another big win is that the paint has exceptional self-priming; one coat will often do fine. This efficient feature saves time and reduces the need for additional coats, curbing paint expenses. Plus, over 100 color options means Sherwin-Williams can cater to diverse aesthetic preferences.
Acrylic paint is another water-based paint made with acrylic resin. This is similar to latex paint, and you can use either on pretty much any exterior surface. Just be aware that it’s not as durable as oil-based exterior paints, and it can get expensive in large quantities.
Nonetheless, acrylic paint is porous and allows water to escape, which makes it one of the best paints for exterior walls made from porous materials like stucco, concrete, or brick. It won’t bubble and resists mildew because it won’t trap water. Just make sure to choose an acrylic paint made specifically for masonry and concrete in those applications.
Easy to apply and clean
Flexible, breathable, and mildew resistant
Non-flammable and low VOCs
Ideal for siding of all types, porches, and patios
Poor durability in harsh weather
Can look streaky on metal without multiple coats
Can cause wood to swell
Hard to avoid brush marks since it dries so fast
Expensive in large quantities
Not as many finish options as latex paint
Sherwin-Williams Emerald Exterior Acrylic Latex Paint: Who doesn't love an all-inclusive premium paint and primer? Resisting blistering, peeling, fading, and dirt accumulation, this paint boasts a resilient, mildew-resistant coating, delivering a seamless, uniform appearance with a self-priming advantage. Notably compliant with stringent volatile organic compounds (VOCs) regulations and fortified by a limited lifetime warranty, this is an excellent choice for those looking for something water-based with an enduring finish.
Oil-based paint is largely regarded as one of the best exterior paint types because of its astounding durability. This paint is made to withstand the elements. It’s water-resistant and scratch-resistant and dries down to create a smooth, hard surface. That makes it a great option for high-traffic areas like doors and floors. Unfortunately, because it’s impermeable, it can trap water, causing bubbling, mold, and mildew. Make sure you apply oil-based paint only to a dry surface.
High durability
Scratch resistant
Covers more smoothly and thoroughly in one coat
Water resistant
Ideal for metal, wood, and high-traffic surfaces
High levels of VOCs
Prone to cracking and bubbling
Slow drying
More difficult to clean
Flammable before drying
Rust-Oleum® Professional High-Performance Protective Enamel: This industrial-grade coating ensures steadfast, corrosion-resistant color regardless of outdoor challenges. For optimal outcomes, apply a Rust-Oleum® Professional primer beforehand, particularly on untreated wood or metal surfaces. Doing so will enhance the durability of the protective coating. Remember, oil-based paints are typically high in VOCs. When inhaled, they pose potential health risks, causing respiratory tract irritation, so don't forget to wear an R95-rated mask when applying.
Most commercially available exterior paints that are categorized as oil-based aren’t actually oil-based at all. Rather, they’re alkyd paint, which you’ll notice if you look closely at the label. So, how does alkyd paint differ? Instead of pigment suspended in oil, it’s dissolved in an alkyd resin that’s cut with a thinner. This makes it perform like traditional oil-based paint, but it’s a bit easier to apply, like water-based paint.
Alkyd paint is beloved for its durability, but if you thought you’d get an extra bang for your buck by using this type of exterior paint inside your home, it’s not always the best option. Alkyd paint gives off high levels of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which are carcinogens that can cause headaches, eye irritation, and other adverse health effects. Unless it’s a low-VOC formula, mind your ventilation.
Extremely durable
Can withstand temperature fluctuations
Quick drying compared to oil-based paint
Temperature resistant
Can use on unfinished wood or over latex paint
Ideal for metal, wood, and high-traffic surfaces
Highest levels of VOCs
Easier to splatter and drip
Prone to cracking and bubbling
Flammable before drying
Benjamin Moore's Aura Exterior Paint: This paint is great at keeping its shine and color after daily exposure to punishing sunlight. It also promises a smooth finish after the first coat, making the painting job faster while using less product. Plus, you can expect a finish that resists scratches and won't feel sticky once dry. Even better, it is breathable, making it less likely to bubble, so it stays tough and protective for a long time. Remember to wear an R95-rated mask before you start applying.
Epoxy paint is an acrylic latex product, but it’s not the same as acrylic latex paint. This exterior paint includes a small amount of epoxy, which makes it stronger and more durable than traditional paint. Basically, you get the benefits of acrylic paint and an epoxy coating without having to apply two different products.
Extremely durable
Resistant to gasoline and oil stains
Waterproof
Ideal for garage floors, driveways, and pools
Slippery when wet
More expensive than latex paint
Can crack, chip, or bubble
Difficult to apply and remove
Few options
FixALL Skid Grip Coating: This is an exceptional choice for virtually all outdoor applications due to its versatile qualities—but remember that epoxy coatings are not for vertical use. With an array of options encompassing color, design, and texture, this coating provides enduring vibrancy and aesthetic allure. Skid and UV resistance are two noteworthy advantages that make it appropriate for high-traffic zones outdoors. For maximum efficiency, a base coat is a must before applying.
Elastomeric paint is basically liquid rubber, so it’s extremely weather resistant. If you hire a local exterior painter, they will typically recommend this type of paint for swimming pools or exterior masonry (think: stucco, brick, concrete, etc.). Despite its high durability, the application can be a bit tricky. Elastomeric paint doesn’t have the coverage of other exterior paint types. You’ll need around three times as much as acrylic, and it can take up to 72 hours to cure.
Flexible
Water resistant
Can conceal tiny cracks in surfaces
Ideal for exterior masonry and pools
Few options
Slow drying
Expensive since you’ll need larger quantities
Heavy, so multiple coats can peel away from walls
BehrⓇ Premium Elastomeric Masonry Stucco and Brick Exterior Paint: This is the paint for you if you're looking for a tough and flexible coating perfect for masonry. It is amazingly made to stretch and move with exterior walls, even with tiny cracks. And get this: It withstands 98 mph wind-driven rain and holds its own against mold and dirt. When it comes to finding the perfect color, there is no problem. An authorized dealer can match any shade.
When choosing the best exterior paint for your home, you need to think about a little bit more than just the formula. There are also different finishes that can completely change the look of your finished product. Not every type of paint is available in every type of paint finish, so be mindful if you’re married to a certain look. Here are the five main types of finish, which are widely available in water-based or oil-based formulas.
"Marlon did color matching and had me review a few different areas. The matching was tricky because the surrounding framework was 80 years old and looked very different everywhere you looked. He found a base that would work in all areas and then tweaked it here and there with different stain colors."
Flat or matte paint has no sheen or gloss. It has an almost chalky appearance. This type of paint is prone to scratches and chips, so it’s not as common of a sheen for exterior paint.
Eggshell has a slight sheen, which makes it easier to clean and more scratch resistant than matte finishes. This finish excels at hiding surface imperfections, so it’s one of the most popular paints for exterior walls.
Satin paint is a little bit more glossy than eggshell, making it more durable. It reflects light giving a surface a brighter appearance—but unfortunately, that can reveal imperfections.
Semi-gloss paint is typically used on trim, where a shiny appearance isn’t distracting. It’s easy to clean, moisture-resistant, and scratch-resistant.
High gloss is extremely shiny, which makes it highly durable and dirt-resistant. You can just wipe it clean without worrying about dirt sinking into cracks. The only problems are that it will highlight surface imperfections and it’s difficult to evenly apply. High gloss paint is typically used on doors, railings, and shutters to add vibrancy and durability, but it can look too intense across a large surface.
Mariel Loveland and Deirdre Sullivan contributed to this piece.
Enamel-based, or oil-based, paint is one of the most durable options available. Acrylic paint is another option for long-lasting exterior paint. Latex paint tends to come in with a slightly shorter lifespan compared to acrylic and oil-based paints. You also have to look at the type of finish. The higher the gloss, the higher the durability. Therefore, choosing a high-gloss acrylic or oil-based paint may be one of the longest-lasting combinations.
The best paint for full sun exposure is high-quality acrylic paint that contains many natural earth pigments, which are better suited for resisting sun damage. You'll also want to go for a neutral color like gray, beige, or white, as these colors absorb less heat compared to darker or more vivid colors.
Acrylic paint is one of the best types of paint to use on your home's exterior. It's a durable paint that is also heat- and cold-resistant. While oil-based paint is also durable, it's prone to fading, making it not as good of an option if you live someplace with extremely high heat. In colder regions, oil-based and alkyd paints become more viscous, which makes it harder to apply the paint.
Just like how acrylic paint is one of the best options for full sun exposure, it is also the winner when it comes to the best paint types for homes that experience extreme heat. Again, you'll want to choose neutral, lighter-colored paints for the best results. These paint colors stand the best chance against scorching summer heat.
