When it comes to painting exteriors, choosing the best exterior paint products can make a significant difference in both the look and durability of the finished product. Different types of exterior primers and paints are formulated to perform under specific conditions and to achieve various effects. Understanding the different types can help you make the best choice for your project. 

Let’s start with primers.

The Different Types of Exterior Primers

Oil-based Primer

First on the list are oil-based primers. Oil-based primers are a popular choice for exterior surfaces such as wood, metal, and masonry. They provide excellent adhesion and penetration into the surface, creating a strong base for the paint to adhere to. Oil-based primers are also highly effective at blocking stains and bleed-through from wood surfaces.

Latex Primer

In contrast to oil-based primers, latex primers are water-based and dry quickly. They are one of the best exterior paint products for exterior surfaces such as stucco, brick, and concrete. Latex primers are also highly resistant to mildew and fading, making them a great choice for areas with high humidity or prolonged exposure to the sun.

Acrylic Primer

Acrylic primers are quite similar to latex primers but have a higher solid content and offer superior adhesion and durability. They are an excellent choice for exterior surfaces such as metal, masonry, and previously painted surfaces. 

Rust-inhibiting Primer

Rust-inhibiting primers are specially formulated to prevent the formation of rust on metal surfaces. They contain special additives that create a protective barrier against moisture and oxygen, which are the primary causes of rust. Rust-inhibiting primers are a good choice for exterior metal surfaces, such as wrought iron fences, railings, and gates.

High-Build Primer

Last on the list of best exterior paint products are high-build primers. This type of primer is thicker than other types of primers, which makes them ideal for covering rough surfaces. They are primarily used on exterior surfaces such as masonry, stucco, and concrete to create a smooth and uniform base for paint. High-build primers also effectively fill small cracks and imperfections in the surface, which is why they work well on uneven surfaces.

The Different Types of Exterior Paints

Latex Paint

Latex paint is probably the most popular type of exterior paint. It is water-based and dries quickly. It also resists fading, cracking, and peeling. 

Latex paint is easy to clean up with soap and water, making it a popular choice for DIY projects. It is most suitable for use on a wide variety of exterior surfaces, including wood, stucco, brick, and concrete.

Oil-based Paint

Oil-based paint is also known as alkyd paint. It is a popular exterior paint product for painting exterior trim, doors, and shutters. It has a long-lasting finish, and it is highly resistant to damage from moisture, fading, and weathering. Oil-based paint takes longer to dry than latex paint and requires solvents such as mineral spirits or turpentine for cleanup.

Acrylic Paint

Acrylic paint is water-based and dries quickly, just like latex paint. It is highly resistant to damage from sunlight, moisture, and weathering. Acrylic paint is suitable for most exterior surfaces and is an excellent choice for painting siding, trim, and doors. It also offers excellent adhesion and durability.

Elastomeric Paint

Elastomeric paint is a specialized type of acrylic paint. It is highly flexible and can stretch up to 600% of its original size without cracking. Elastomeric paint is suitable for use on surfaces that experience significant expansion and contraction, such as stucco or masonry. It is also highly resistant to water, fading, and cracking, making it a popular choice for coastal and high-moisture areas.

Epoxy Paint

Epoxy paint is a two-part paint system that creates a highly durable and chemical-resistant finish. It is suitable for use on concrete surfaces, such as garage floors, driveways, and walkways. Epoxy paint is highly resistant to damage from chemicals, abrasion, and moisture. However, it can be challenging to apply and requires careful preparation of the surface.

Choosing the right type of exterior products can help you achieve a beautiful and durable finish that will last for years. Consider the surface you are painting, the environmental conditions, and the desired finish when selecting your products. If you’ll be doing this yourself, make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure the best results. Or, if you need help and want to guarantee a professional finish, contact your trusted local painting company to get your exteriors painted efficiently.

Choose Kieser’s Painting for your Exterior Painting Needs

With over 40 years of combined team experience, our team of exterior painters at Kieser’s Painting provides top-quality exterior painting services to transform the look of your home. 

Our team uses only the best exterior paint products and materials to ensure a beautiful and long-lasting finish. From prep work to the final cleanup, we pay attention to every detail to ensure that the end result exceeds your expectations

At Kieser’s Painting, we offer free estimates, a flexible schedule, and a warranty on workmanship. 

So what are you waiting for? Choose Kieser’s Painting for all your exterior painting needs! You can reach us at 402-866-8260 for a FREE estimate.