Painting the exterior of your home can be a daunting task, but choosing the right exterior paint can make all the difference. A high-quality exterior paint can protect your home from the elements, enhance its curb appeal, and increase its value. With so many options available in the market, finding the best exterior paint can be overwhelming.
When it comes to choosing the best exterior paint, there are several factors to consider. The most critical thing to pay attention to is the type of paint. There are two main types of exterior paint: oil-based and water-based. Oil-based paints are more durable and offer better protection against moisture and harsh weather conditions. However, they can be challenging to clean up and may emit harmful fumes. Water-based paints, on the other hand, are easier to clean up and have lower VOC emissions. They are also more flexible, making them ideal for areas with frequent temperature changes.
Another essential factor to consider when choosing the best exterior paint is the finish. The finish determines the level of gloss or shine the paint will have. There are several finishes available, including flat, satin, semi-gloss, and high-gloss. Flat finishes are ideal for concealing imperfections, while glossy finishes are perfect for highlighting architectural details.
At our testing facility, we spent countless hours researching and testing ten of the best exterior paints on the market to identify the ones that offer the best protection, durability, and aesthetic appeal. We evaluated each paint's coverage, ease of application, resistance to fading, cracking, and peeling, and overall performance.
In this article, we will share our top picks for the best exterior paint, along with our detailed analysis of each product. Whether you're a DIY enthusiast or a professional painter, our recommendations will help you choose the best exterior paint for your home.
Best Exterior Paints
We have researched and tested various exterior paints to bring you the best options available. The right exterior paint can not only improve the appearance of your home, but also protect it from the elements. Our top picks offer superior coverage, durability, and resistance to fading and mildew. Whether you're looking for a classic or modern finish, these paints will help you achieve the look you desire. Here are our top choices for the best exterior paints on the market.
Rust-Oleum PermaWhite Exterior Semi-Gloss
If you're looking for an exterior paint that can resist mold and mildew, then Rust-Oleum PermaWhite Exterior Semi-Gloss is a great choice. We've used this paint on our home's exterior, and we're impressed with its quality and durability.
Pros
- The self-priming formula requires no sanding, making it easy to use.
- The paint film is guaranteed to be mold and mildew-proof for 5 years, which is great for homes in humid climates.
- The product resists cracking, fading, peeling, and blistering for 15 years, ensuring that your home's exterior will look great for years to come.
Cons
- The coverage is only 100 square feet, so you may need to purchase multiple cans for larger projects.
- The paint is quite thin, which means that you may need to apply multiple coats for full coverage.
- The color may not match the swatch perfectly, so it's important to test the paint in a small area before applying it to the entire surface.
We found that Rust-Oleum PermaWhite Exterior Semi-Gloss was easy to apply, and it dried quickly. The paint film is tough and durable, and it has held up well against the elements. We appreciate that it contains a mildewcide to prevent the growth of mold and mildew on the paint film only. Clean up is also easy with soap and water.
Overall, we recommend Rust-Oleum PermaWhite Exterior Semi-Gloss for anyone looking for a high-quality exterior paint that can resist mold and mildew. It's easy to use, durable, and comes with a 5-year guarantee.
DWIL Door Paint For Front Door
If you're looking for an affordable and easy-to-use front door paint, then the DWIL Door Paint For Front Door is an excellent option. It's suitable for both interior and exterior use, making it a versatile option for a wide range of projects.
Pros
- The kit comes with all the necessary tools for a painting project, including a bucket of DWIL Door Paint, hardener, masking tape, masking film, paint roller, sandpaper, gloves, brush, and sitting rod.
- The low-odor formula of the water-based paint emits minimal Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs), making it a perfect option for indoor use, especially in areas like bedrooms and kitchens.
- The fast-drying feature of the paint allows the door to be dry on the surface within two hours of application, making it an excellent option for those who don't have a lot of time to spare.
Cons
- The DWIL metal door paint is not suitable for use on concrete and plastics.
- For darker surfaces, one or two more coats are recommended to achieve better coverage.
- The coverage of the paint is not great, particularly for white paint.
We recently used this paint for a project, and we were impressed with its ease of use and low odor. The kit came with all the necessary tools, including the paint, hardener, and other painting tools. The paint dried quickly, and after one day, it was ready for light use. After seven days, it was completely hardened and ready for full use.
While we were happy with the results, we did notice that the coverage of the paint was not great, particularly for white paint. We needed to apply several coats to achieve the desired coverage. However, this is a minor issue considering the affordable price of the paint kit.
Overall, if you're looking for a budget-friendly and easy-to-use front door paint, the DWIL Door Paint For Front Door is an excellent option. It's versatile, fast-drying, and comes with all the necessary tools for a painting project.
INSL-X Tough Shield Floor and Patio Paint
We highly recommend the INSL-X Tough Shield Floor and Patio Paint for those looking for a durable and long-lasting exterior paint option for their floors. This waterborne, acrylic enamel paint is designed to withstand detergents, oils, greases, and scrubbing, making it perfect for high-traffic areas like patios and porches.
Pros
- Produces a rugged, durable finish that stands up to weather and abrasion
- Resists ponding water and has excellent wearing qualities for interior and exterior floor paint used on surfaces like masonry, concrete, and wood
- Covers 350-450 square feet per gallon, making it a cost-effective option for larger surfaces
Cons
- Cannot be used on garage floors or car parking surfaces
- Requires a surface and air temperature above 50°F (10°C) for proper application
- Proper preparation and application are necessary for optimal results
The INSL-X Tough Shield Floor and Patio Paint is a great option for those looking for a reliable and long-lasting exterior paint. Its durable satin finish provides excellent abrasion resistance, making it perfect for high-traffic areas like patios and porches. The paint resists ponding water, ensuring that it maintains its quality over time. With a coverage of 350-450 square feet per gallon, it is a cost-effective option for larger surfaces.
One thing to note is that the INSL-X Tough Shield Floor and Patio Paint cannot be used on garage floors or car parking surfaces. Additionally, proper preparation and application are necessary for optimal results. The surface and air temperature must be above 50°F (10°C) during application.
Overall, we highly recommend the INSL-X Tough Shield Floor and Patio Paint for those looking for a durable and long-lasting exterior paint option for their floors.
PRESTIGE Paints Exterior Paint and Primer In One, 1-Gallon, Flat, Comparable Match of Sherwin Williams* Sturdy Brown* SW6097-PCM Exterior Flat 1 Gallon (Pack of 1)
If you're looking for a high-quality exterior paint that's easy to apply and provides great coverage, then PRESTIGE Paints Exterior Paint and Primer In One is a great option to consider.
Pros
- This paint is easy to apply with a high-quality brush, roller, or pad painter.
- It provides excellent coverage with a smooth application and high hiding formula.
- The paint is 100% acrylic latex, which makes it easy to clean up with soap and water.
Cons
- Glossy surfaces must be dulled by sanding before application.
- When painting vinyl siding, do not use any color darker than the original siding color as darker colors may cause the siding to warp.
- The paint is not recommended for indoor use.
This paint is perfect for use on exterior surfaces, including properly prepared wood, masonry surfaces, cement board siding, vinyl*, aluminum, and factory primed siding. The paint is easy to apply and provides excellent coverage with a smooth finish. You can easily clean up the paint with soap and water, making it a convenient choice for any outdoor painting project.
The high hiding formula of this paint ensures that you get great coverage with a smooth application. This means that you can achieve a great finish with fewer coats of paint, which can save you time and money. The 100% acrylic latex formula also ensures that the paint dries quickly, so you can apply a second coat after just a few hours.
One thing to keep in mind is that glossy surfaces must be dulled by sanding before application. This will ensure that the paint adheres properly and provides a smooth finish. Additionally, when painting vinyl siding, it's important to use a color that is no darker than the original siding color, as darker colors may cause the siding to warp.
In conclusion, if you're looking for a high-quality exterior paint that's easy to apply and provides great coverage, then PRESTIGE Paints Exterior Paint and Primer In One is a great option to consider. It's easy to clean up with soap and water, and the 100% acrylic latex formula ensures that it dries quickly and provides a smooth finish.
Majic Paints Latex Flat Barn & Fence Paint
If you're looking for an exterior paint that provides excellent weather-resistance and color retention, Majic Paints Latex Flat Barn & Fence Paint could be just what you need.
Pros
- Provides outstanding weather, UV, and fade resistance for exterior applications.
- Dries bug-free within 30 minutes, making it a time-efficient option.
- Superior coverage up to 250 square feet per gallon.
Cons
- Not suitable for use on roofs or floors.
- May require extra preparation for certain surfaces.
- Some users have reported issues with consistency.
We recently tried out this paint on a wooden fence and were impressed with the results. The color was rich and vibrant, and the finish was fade-resistant even after a few months of exposure to the elements. The paint dried quickly, which was a big plus for us since we were working on a hot day and didn't want to spend hours waiting for it to dry.
One thing to keep in mind is that this paint may require some extra preparation to achieve the best results. We found that it worked best on properly prepared surfaces, so be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully. Additionally, it's important to note that this paint is not suitable for use on roofs or floors.
Overall, we would recommend Majic Paints Latex Flat Barn & Fence Paint to anyone looking for a high-quality exterior paint that provides excellent weather-resistance and color retention. It's a great option for anyone who wants to give their fence or other outdoor surfaces a fresh new look that will last for years to come.
Buying Guide
When it comes to choosing the best exterior paint, there are a few key features to consider to ensure you make an informed decision. Here are some factors to keep in mind:
Durability and Weather Resistance
One of the most important features to look for in an exterior paint is durability and weather resistance. The paint should be able to withstand harsh weather conditions, such as rain, snow, and extreme temperatures, without peeling or fading. Look for paints that are specifically designed for exterior use and have a long-lasting formula.
Coverage and Application
Another important factor to consider is the coverage and application of the paint. Look for paints that offer good coverage with fewer coats, as this will save you time and money. The paint should also be easy to apply, with a smooth and even finish.
Color and Finish
Choosing the right color and finish is also important when it comes to exterior paint. Consider the style and color of your home, as well as the surrounding environment. Choose a color and finish that complements your home's architecture and enhances its curb appeal.
VOC Content
Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are harmful chemicals that are released into the air during the paint drying process. Look for paints with low VOC content, as these are better for the environment and your health.
Price
Finally, consider the price of the paint. While it may be tempting to opt for a cheaper option, investing in a high-quality exterior paint will save you money in the long run by lasting longer and requiring fewer touch-ups.
By considering these factors, you can choose the best exterior paint for your home that will provide long-lasting protection and enhance its overall appearance.
