Exterior paint is not just a touch of color: it acts as a real protective shield for your home. It protects facades against rain, sun, wind, pollution and other factors that deteriorate surfaces over time. By preventing water from penetrating or solar radiation from degrading materials, paint maintains the structural integrity of the building, prevents the appearance of damp, mold and cracks, and contributes to maintaining a healthy and comfortable interior environment. Therefore, choosing the right exterior paint not only improves aesthetics, but also prolongs the life of the facade and reduces future maintenance costs.
Why is it so important to choose the right exterior paint?
Protective function of the exterior paint
Exterior paint has a double essential function. On the one hand, it improves the visual appearance of a house and, on the other hand, it protects the facade against external agents such as rain, sun, humidity, pollution and mold. Ignoring this protective function can lead to serious problems such as cracks, fissures, leaks or detachments.
Impact on home energy efficiency
In addition to protecting, paint can also contribute to energy efficiency. Light colors reflect heat, while dark colors absorb it. Some modern paints incorporate reflective pigments that help reduce the surface temperature of facades.
Climate and location: keys to choosing the right paint
Exterior paints for humid and rainy areas
In areas with high humidity or frequent rainfall, a waterproof paint with anti-mildew and anti-grease preservatives is required. These characteristics ensure greater durability of the coating.
Exterior paints for sunny or arid areas: UV and heat resistance
In very sunny regions, the right choice is a paint with UV protection. Acrylic and siloxane resins offer excellent resistance to solar deterioration.
Exterior paints for regions with temperature changes
In areas with large temperature differences, it is advisable to apply highly flexible acrylic paint, which withstands the expansion of surfaces without cracking.
What type of facade are you going to paint (materials and surface condition)?
Porous, cracked or degraded surfaces
For aged facades, the use of hydropliolite or elastomeric anti-crack coatings, which cover up to 0.5 mm cracks without the need for priming, is recommended.
Wood, brick, concrete or mineral plaster
Each material requires a specific type of paint. Mineral surfaces require silicate paints, while wood needs products that favor transpiration.
Types of exterior paint: advantages and recommended uses
Acrylic paint: perfect balance
Acrylic paint is very versatile, easy to apply and durable. It is weather resistant and maintains its color for years.
Siloxane: maximum protection in extreme climates
Siloxane paints offer high impermeability, breathability and self-cleaning effect. They are ideal for extreme climates.
Hydropliolite: ideal for weathered facades
Thanks to its high adhesion and ability to be applied without primer, hydropliolite paint is perfect for deteriorated substrates.
Plastic and latex: versatile and affordable options
These economical paints are easy to apply and have good water resistance. They are perfect for do-it-yourself projects or tight budgets.
Silicate: for durable mineral substrates
They are chemically bonded to the substrate, offer high breathability and are resistant to UV rays, mildew and contamination.
Technical factors: what you cannot overlook
Coverage and yield (m²/liter)
A paint with good coverage yields more, reduces the number of coats needed and optimizes the budget.
Adhesion and need for priming
If the product has high adhesion, it can be applied directly on the surface without the need of a base coat.
Breathability and waterproofing
Good exterior paint should keep water out, but allow internal moisture to escape.
Choose the finish: matte, satin or glossy?
Matte finish: conceals imperfections
Perfect for rustic facades. It hides flaws, although it is less washable and gets dirty more easily.
Satin finish: more resistance and washability
Ideal for exposed areas. Offers a modern look and increased wear resistance.
How much paint will you need? Quick calculator
Simple formula to calculate liters needed
Measure the width and height of each wall, multiply, subtract doors and windows, and divide by the yield per liter.
Considerations according to the number of layers
Calculate a minimum of two coats for a durable finish. The final result depends on the condition of the wall.
Professional tips for long-lasting results
Preliminary surface preparation
Clean, repair cracks, eliminate humidity and make sure it is dry before painting.
Best times of the day to paint
Paint in hours of less sun or wind. The best times are early morning or late afternoon.
Suitable tools to apply
Use brushes for edges and rollers for large surfaces. On rough walls, choose special rollers.
What is the most durable exterior paint?
Siloxane paints offer the longest durability, with up to 15 years of protection in extreme conditions.
Can I paint the facade if it has recently rained?
Not recommended. The surface must be completely dry before applying the paint to ensure proper adhesion.
What color is best for warm climates?
Light tones are more efficient, as they reflect sunlight and prevent the interior from overheating.
Is it necessary to apply primer on a facade?
It depends on the type of paint and the condition of the surface. Some modern formulas do not require it.
