Choosing the Right Paint for Different Exterior Surfaces: Wood, Brick, and Stucco
Different surfaces have unique properties that require specific paint formulations. This article will help you determine the best paint for three common exterior surfaces in Wilmington, NC: wood, brick, and stucco.
Why Select Surface-Appropriate Paint?
Exterior paint comes in various types, finishes, and colors. With seemingly endless options, selecting the right product can be a challenge. There are many factors to consider, including the surface you’re painting.
Paint must be suitable for the specific material of the exterior walls or outdoor features you’re painting. Otherwise, your residential exterior painting project will face both aesthetic and durability issues. For instance, applying oil-based paint on a highly alkaline surface like concrete can cause saponification. Saponification causes the paint to bubble and lose adhesion. Another example is using waterproof paint on a brick surface. Waterproof paint will trap moisture, causing mold growth, cracking, and spalling.
In addition, it is important to ensure the paint is meant for exterior use. Do not use interior paints outside your structure because they are not made to resist harsh outdoor conditions. This type of paint job will not last very long! Paint labels usually include information about the product’s best application(s). Read them in full to identify and choose the paint that’s most suitable for your project.
Better yet, hire a trustworthy residential painting company in Wilmington, NC like Anderson Painting for assistance in choosing exterior paint.
Choosing the Right Paint for Wood, Brick, and Stucco Surfaces
The right paint depends, at least in part, on the material it is being applied to.
Painting Wood Surfaces
UV rays, moisture, temperature fluctuations, and even fungus can significantly damage outdoor wood structures. The wood may rot, crack, and fade. Painting is a great way to protect a wood surface from these problems, but you should use the right paint for maximum protection.
Acrylic latex paint is a popular wood paint option because of its flexibility and durability. However, this paint will cover the natural grain of the wood. If you don’t want that, staining is a great alternative. Stain (except for solid types) protects the wood while allowing its natural grain and patterns to show through. A Wilmington painting contractor at Anderson Painting can help you determine the best treatment to protect your outdoor wooden features.
Painting Brick Exteriors
Brick is a beautiful, timeless construction material prized for its durability and low maintenance requirements. You don’t need to paint your brick exterior unless you want to give it a facelift or hide any surface imperfections. If you decide to paint brick, properly prep the surface and use the right paint. Brick is a porous material. It naturally “breathes” moisture in and out. The wrong type of paint will trap moisture, causing problems such as mold and mildew growth, deteriorating the surface of the brick. The paint will also likely blister and peel.
Avoid oil-based paints, as they create a barrier that traps moisture within the brick. Find breathable paints instead. Breathable paint allows water vapor to pass through the paint film rather than gathering underneath. Breathability is a common feature of masonry paints. Consider investing in high-quality, breathable masonry paint to prevent problems due to moisture ingress.
Painting Stucco Exteriors
Like brick, stucco is porous and will need breathable paint to prevent moisture damage. The material is also prone to cracking due to constant expansion and contraction, so choose a flexible paint. Your best option is a breathable exterior acrylic latex paint specially formulated for masonry.
Painting a stucco exterior can be difficult because of its rough texture. Surface prep will also be extensive. You will most likely have to do a lot of patching because stucco is prone to cracks. For quality results without all the hard work, consider getting residential painting services from a trusted contractor.
Get a Quality, Lasting Paint Job for Your Exterior Surfaces
Besides using the right paint, proper and thorough exterior paint prep is critical for achieving a lasting, flawless finish. Anderson Painting understands the significance of surface preparation. Our Wilmington painters never cut corners and use only the best materials. We work hard to deliver a paint job worthy of your trust, time, and investment.
Request a free estimate to start your project or call 919-610-1855 for more information.
