When choosing a color for your exterior painting project, take into consideration the architectural details of your house and the character of your neighborhood. If you’re painting wood siding, for example, make sure you let your architect or designer know beforehand. Then, you can get a trial quart of the color you’re considering and change it as necessary. Here are a few tips to help you choose the right color for your home:
The composition of exterior paint is important. While acrylic and latex paints use water as a solvent, oil-based paints use turpentine or mineral spirits. Both types of paint contain pigment, which gives them their color. Pigments are plant or animal-based. Additives make the paint look better and can add a satin or high-gloss finish. Fungicides are also added to some exterior paints.
The durability of exterior paint is another key factor. While a standard exterior paint can last between 10 and 15 years on primed wood, stucco has a much longer lifespan. In order to determine how long paint will last, you can look for independent consumer tests in non-biased magazines. These publications simulate years of exposure to outdoor elements. Moreover, they can be used as a guideline when choosing a paint color.
In addition, you must also consider the season for exterior painting. If you live in an area where the temperature drastically changes, you should avoid exterior painting. Since paint doesn’t dry well in a temperature that fluctuates wildly, it’s better to do it on a warm day than in the middle of winter. In addition, be aware that the daytime temperature is less than ideal during the fall and winter months. In addition to the temperature, you need to be aware of sunlight during those seasons since the paint tends to dry slowly.
When choosing paint for the exterior of your home, make sure that you choose to paint with a low VOC. Many paints on the market are low or no VOC. Exterior paint is typically made of oil-based paint that provides a more durable finish. But most exterior paints these days are water-based and contain more acrylic resins. But they can be risky for the environment. Aside from being potentially hazardous, exterior paint is also prone to mildew and mold growth, which can lead to respiratory problems and even respiratory illnesses.
Once you’ve determined the color of your home, you can choose between two types of paint: flat and eggshell. Flat paint is best applied with a paint sprayer; eggshell requires one or two coats. For eggshell paint, you can use a brush to apply overlapping strokes about eight inches apart. Primer is required for changing the color of your home’s exterior, while eggshell paint is best applied by hand using a brush and drop cloth.
Before painting the exterior of your house, you should consider the cost. An average exterior paint job can cost anywhere from $500 to $1000, depending on the complexity of the project and how much prep work needs to be done. For instance, some surfaces require more than one coat, so it’s better to go with a higher quality brand. You can also get the same quality paint supplies for half the cost. If you’re painting a high-traffic area, you may want to choose high-gloss paint.
After choosing a painter, ask for a written estimate. The estimate should include an itemized breakdown of costs. It should include a clear explanation of the entire project, including materials, labor, and finishing touches. The estimate should not have any hidden charges and should be in writing. Most companies provide an estimate through email and a hard copy to their customers. These estimates are based on standard practices and hourly rates. If you’re unsure, ask the company to provide a written warranty on the work.
