When it comes to painting, many homeowners wonder if they can use interior paint for exterior surfaces. The short answer is no – interior paint is not suitable for outdoor use and will not provide a durable, long-lasting finish.
There are some key differences between interior and exterior paints that make them better suited for their respective environments. Let’s take a closer look at why you should never use interior paint outside.
The Differences Between Interior and Exterior Paints
The main differences between interior and exterior paints lie in their formulations. Exterior paints are designed to withstand the harsh outdoor elements, while interior paints are formulated for the more mild conditions found indoors.
Here’s a breakdown of the key differences:
Pigments
- Exterior paints use more durable pigments that are resistant to fading from UV exposure. The pigments in interior paints are more susceptible to fading over time.
Binders
- Exterior paints have more durable binders that can withstand cracking and peeling from weather conditions like rain, wind, and temperature changes. Interior paint binders are not as hardy.
VOCs
- Exterior paints contain higher levels of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) to provide better weatherproofing. However, these higher VOC levels make exterior paint unsuitable for indoor use.
Consistency
- Exterior paints are thicker and more opaque, requiring fewer coats, while interior paints are thinner and may need multiple coats.
Why You Shouldn’t Use Interior Paint Outside
If you try to use interior paint on exterior surfaces, it simply won’t hold up. The paint job will start to deteriorate much faster than if you had used a proper exterior paint.
Here’s what you can expect to happen:
- Fading: The pigments in interior paint are not designed to withstand UV exposure, so the paint will start to fade and discolor within a year.
- Peeling and Cracking: The less durable binders in interior paint cannot handle the stresses of outdoor weather, leading to peeling, cracking, and bubbling.
- Reduced Lifespan: An exterior paint job using interior paint may only last 1-2 years before needing a complete repaint, compared to the 5-10 year lifespan of a proper exterior paint.
In short, all your hard work will be wasted if you use interior paint outside. The paint simply won’t hold up, and you’ll end up having to repaint much sooner than you would with an exterior-grade paint.
When to Use Exterior Paint
Anytime you’re painting an outdoor surface, you should always use a paint specifically formulated for exterior use. This includes:
- Siding
- Trim
- Fences
- Decks
- Outdoor furniture
- Sheds and other outbuildings
Exterior paints are designed to withstand the elements and provide a durable, long-lasting finish. They contain the right pigments, binders, and VOC levels to protect against:
- UV radiation
- Rain and moisture
- Temperature fluctuations
- Wind and other weather conditions
Using the right exterior paint will ensure your paint job lasts for years to come, saving you time and money in the long run.
How to Choose the Right Exterior Paint
When selecting an exterior paint, there are a few key factors to consider:
- Sheen Level: Exterior paints come in a range of sheens, from flat to high-gloss. Flat and eggshell sheens are best for siding, while semi-gloss and high-gloss work well for trim and doors.
- Paint Type: The two main types of exterior paint are latex (water-based) and oil-based. Latex paints are more popular today due to their easier cleanup and lower VOCs, but oil-based paints provide a harder, more durable finish.
- Climate Considerations: If you live in an area with extreme temperatures, heavy rain, or high humidity, you may want to choose a paint specifically formulated for those conditions.
- Substrate: Make sure the paint you select is compatible with the material you’re painting, whether it’s wood, metal, vinyl, or something else.
By taking the time to choose the right exterior paint for your project, you can ensure a beautiful, long-lasting finish that will protect your home for years to come.
Preparing the Surface for Exterior Painting
Proper surface preparation is key when painting exterior surfaces. This helps the paint adhere properly and maximizes its lifespan. Some essential prep steps include:
- Cleaning the surface to remove dirt, grease, and other contaminants
- Sanding or scraping away any loose or peeling paint
- Priming bare or porous surfaces
- Caulking and sealing any cracks or gaps
Taking the time to properly prepare the surface will pay off in the long run, helping your exterior paint job last as long as possible.
Applying Exterior Paint Correctly
Once you’ve selected the right exterior paint and prepped the surface, it’s time to start painting. Here are some tips for applying exterior paint correctly:
- Use high-quality brushes and rollers designed for exterior use
- Apply paint in thin, even coats, allowing proper drying time between coats
- Pay close attention to edges, corners, and other hard-to-reach areas
- Consider using a paint sprayer for larger, open areas
- Apply paint in the right weather conditions (not too hot, cold, or humid)
Proper application techniques will ensure the paint adheres well and provides maximum protection for your home’s exterior.
Maintaining Exterior Paint
Even the best exterior paint job won’t last forever. Over time, the elements will take their toll, and you’ll need to repaint. Here are some tips for maintaining your exterior paint:
- Inspect the paint regularly for signs of wear, such as fading, peeling, or cracking
- Clean the painted surfaces annually to remove dirt and debris
- Repair any damage, such as cracks or holes, as soon as possible
- Repaint every 5-10 years, depending on the condition of the existing paint
By staying on top of maintenance, you can extend the life of your exterior paint job and keep your home looking its best.
Professional Paintiners
Painters Milwaukee Pro is a reputable painting company in southeastern Wisconsin, offering top-notch residential and commercial painting services. Their work process is meticulous, starting with in-depth consultations to understand clients’ needs and style preferences. With a focus on professionalism and durability, their experienced team uses eco-friendly materials to deliver precise and lasting paint applications. Open communication throughout the process ensures customer satisfaction, and their commitment to quality shines through in every project they undertake.
Conclusion
In summary, you should never use interior paint on exterior surfaces. Interior paint is simply not designed to withstand the harsh outdoor elements, and using it outside will result in a paint job that fades, peels, and cracks much faster than a proper exterior paint.
Always choose a paint specifically formulated for exterior use when painting outdoor surfaces. Exterior paints are engineered to provide a durable, long-lasting finish that can protect your home from the elements for years to come.
By understanding the differences between interior and exterior paints, and following best practices for surface preparation and application, you can ensure a beautiful, high-quality exterior paint job that will stand the test of time.