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5 Best Exterior House Paints of 2024 – Expert Recommendations

Are you seeking a durable and visually appealing exterior for your home? The top-rated exterior house paints of 2024 may just hold the key to transforming your property. From satin finishes to eco-friendly formulas and superior fade resistance, these expert-recommended options offer a diverse range of features to ponder. Intrigued? Let’s dive deeper into the details of these exceptional paints and uncover which one could be the perfect match for your home’s unique needs and aesthetic goals.

qt Modern Masters 275270 Calm Front Door Paint Water-Based Exterior Enamel

qt Modern Masters 275270 Calm Front Door Paint Water-Based Exterior Enamel

The qt Modern Masters 275270 Calm Front Door Paint Water-Based Exterior Enamel is an excellent choice for homeowners seeking a durable and fade-resistant finish for their front doors. This satin-finish paint is water-based, making it easy to apply and quick-drying. With its UV-resistant properties, you can expect the color to maintain its vibrant hue over time, even when exposed to direct sunlight. The paint is suitable for both indoor and outdoor use, making it a versatile option for your home’s entryway. Customers praise its user-friendly application, great coverage, and the stunning results it produces on fiberglass doors and shutters. Plus, with a 1-hour full cure time, you can enjoy your beautifully painted front door in no time.

Best For: Homeowners looking for a durable, fade-resistant, and easy-to-apply water-based exterior paint for their front doors.

Pros:

  • Satin finish provides a beautiful, subtle sheen
  • UV-resistant to maintain color vibrancy over time
  • Dries quickly with a 1-hour full cure time

Cons:

  • May require multiple coats for optimal coverage
  • Limited color options compared to other paint brands
  • More expensive than some other exterior door paints
  Get it now on Amazon.com

Montage Signature Interior/Exterior Eco-Friendly Paint, Mustard Seed, Low Sheen, 5 Gallon

Montage Signature Interior/Exterior Eco-Friendly Paint, Mustard Seed, Low Sheen, 5 Gallon

If you’re looking for an eco-friendly, high-quality paint for your exterior or interior projects, Montage Signature’s Mustard Seed low sheen paint is an excellent choice. This 5-gallon can covers up to 1,500 square feet, making it versatile for various painting needs. The water-based, low sheen formula provides superior coverage and protection, while the eco-friendly materials guarantee a pollutant-free application. Reviewers praise the easy application and smooth finish, though some note issues with color accuracy and fumes. Nevertheless, the 10-year premium warranty and Made in the USA quality make this paint a reliable option. With a 4.4-star rating and positive feedback on coverage and ease of use, the Montage Signature Mustard Seed paint is worth considering for your next interior or exterior painting project.

Best For: Homeowners and DIYers looking for an eco-friendly, high-quality interior/exterior paint with a low sheen finish.

Pros:

  • Excellent coverage and protection
  • Easy application and smooth finish
  • Eco-friendly and pollutant-free materials

Cons:

  • Some issues reported with color accuracy
  • Potential for strong fumes during application
  • Not suitable for every painting need
  Get it now on Amazon.com

PRESTIGE Exterior Paint and Primer In One, 1-Gallon, Satin, White

PRESTIGE Exterior Paint and Primer In One, 1-Gallon, Satin, White

For homeowners seeking a high-quality, durable exterior paint, the PRESTIGE Exterior Paint and Primer In One, 1-Gallon, Satin, White is an excellent choice. This 100% acrylic latex paint offers superior fade, UV, and stain resistance, ensuring long-lasting beauty for your home’s exterior. The satin finish adds an elegant sheen while enhancing both light and dark colors. With an average coverage of 250-400 square feet per gallon, this paint is efficient and easy to apply, even on surfaces like wood, masonry, and vinyl. While it’s not meant for indoor use, the PRESTIGE paint delivers reliable performance outdoors, drying in just 1-2 hours. With a 4.6-star rating and positive customer reviews, this paint is a smart pick for your next exterior painting project.

Best For: Homeowners seeking a high-quality, durable exterior paint for their home’s exterior surfaces such as wood, masonry, and vinyl.

Pros:

  • Superior fade, UV, and stain resistance for long-lasting beauty
  • Satin finish adds an elegant sheen and enhances both light and dark colors
  • Efficient coverage of 250-400 square feet per gallon

Cons:

  • Not suitable for indoor use
  • Requires at least two coats for best performance
  • Longer drying time in low temperatures or high humidity
  Get it now on Amazon.com

Rust-Oleum 3104 Zinsser 1-Qt. PermaWhite Exterior Satin

Rust-Oleum 3104 Zinsser 1-Qt. PermaWhite Exterior Satin

Homeowners seeking a long-lasting, durable exterior paint will find the Rust-Oleum 3104 Zinsser 1-Qt. PermaWhite Exterior Satin a compelling option. This acrylic paint boasts a low-odor formula and a satin finish, perfect for coating exterior walls, trim, doors, and more. It dries quickly, covers up to 100 square feet, and is self-priming, eliminating the need for sanding. Rust-Oleum backs its product with a 5-year guarantee against cracking, fading, peeling, and blistering, and a 15-year warranty on the paint’s performance. While some customers report issues with the paint’s consistency, the majority praise its quality and long-lasting durability. At $32.99 per quart, the Rust-Oleum 3104 Zinsser 1-Qt. PermaWhite Exterior Satin offers excellent value for homeowners seeking a reliable and washable exterior paint.

Best For: The Rust-Oleum 3104 Zinsser 1-Qt. PermaWhite Exterior Satin is best for homeowners seeking a long-lasting, durable, and washable exterior paint for their home.

Pros:

  • Long-lasting durability with a 5-year guarantee against cracking, fading, peeling, and blistering
  • Self-priming formula that eliminates the need for sanding
  • Quick-drying and covers up to 100 square feet per quart

Cons:

  • Some customers reported issues with the paint’s consistency, such as hard chunks in the can
  • May be considered more expensive than other exterior paint options
  • Minimal negative reviews, but a few customers had issues with the product arriving damaged
  Get it now on Amazon.com

THE ONE Paint & Primer: Most Durable All-in-One Furniture, Cabinet, Door, Wall, Bathroom & Kitchen Paint (Grey, Gloss, 1 Liter)

THE ONE Paint & Primer: Most Durable All-in-One Furniture, Cabinet, Door, Wall, Bathroom & Kitchen Paint (Grey, Gloss, 1 Liter)

The “THE ONE Paint & Primer” offers a versatile all-in-one solution for homeowners looking to transform their interior and exterior surfaces. Boasting a durable, non-toxic, and fast-drying formula, this paint can cover a wide range of materials, including furniture, cabinets, doors, walls, and even bathrooms and kitchens. With excellent coverage, you can save time and money while achieving a stunning gloss finish. The advanced formula is water-based, low-odor, and ultra-low VOC, making it a safe and eco-friendly choice. While some users report difficulty achieving a perfectly smooth finish, the overall positive reviews highlight the paint’s outstanding durability and ease of use. Whether you’re tackling a small project or a whole-home renovation, the “THE ONE Paint & Primer” is a versatile and reliable option to weigh.

Best For: Homeowners looking to transform a variety of indoor and outdoor surfaces, including furniture, cabinets, doors, walls, bathrooms, and kitchens, with a durable, non-toxic, and fast-drying paint.

Pros:

  • Versatile 2-in-1 paint and primer formula
  • Excellent coverage and long-lasting durability
  • Safe and eco-friendly water-based, low-odor, and ultra-low VOC formula

Cons:

  • Some users report difficulty achieving a perfectly smooth finish
  • Thicker paint consistency may require more effort to apply evenly
  • Limited color selection compared to other paint brands
  Get it now on Amazon.com

Factors to Consider When Choosing Exterior House Paints

When selecting exterior house paints, consider the surface preparation required, the paint’s durability and longevity, the desired finish and sheen, the environmental impact and odor, and the application ease and cleanup. These factors can substantially impact the long-term performance and appearance of your home’s exterior. Take the time to evaluate each of these elements to guarantee you choose the best paint for your needs.

Surface Preparation Requirements

Proper surface preparation is crucial when applying exterior house paints, as the condition of the underlying surface can substantially impact the paint’s performance and longevity. The required preparation varies based on the material – wood surfaces need sanding, while metal surfaces require rust removal. New wood may need an oil-based primer, and metal often requires a rust-inhibiting primer.

Glossy areas must be dulled through sanding to guarantee proper paint adhesion. Additionally, you must remove any dirt, grease, wax, or soap residue from the surface before painting to create a strong bond between the paint and the surface.

Paint Durability and Longevity

Choosing exterior house paints with high-quality resins and UV-resistant pigments can guarantee they last up to 15 years without fading or cracking. Paints with a high level of acrylic polymer offer excellent durability and resistance to wear and tear. But a paint’s longevity also depends on its adhesion to the surface, which can be affected by factors like surface preparation and primer usage.

Many exterior paints come with a warranty or guarantee, ensuring their durability and long-lasting performance. However, environmental factors like climate, sunlight exposure, and humidity can influence a paint’s lifespan. To maximize your investment, research paints that balance quality, protection, and value. Consider the climate in your area and choose an exterior paint designed to withstand those conditions. With the right preparation and quality paint, you can enjoy a beautiful, long-lasting finish for your home.

Paint Finish and Sheen

The paint’s sheen, or level of shine, is a crucial consideration when selecting exterior house paints. Flat or matte finishes have no sheen, making them ideal for low-traffic areas or surfaces with imperfections, providing a subtle, non-reflective appearance. Eggshell finishes offer a slight sheen, suitable for high-traffic areas and providing a soft, warm glow, while also resisting stains and scratches. Satin finishes have a medium sheen, balancing durability and appearance, making them suitable for most exterior painting projects, including trim, doors, and walls. On the other hand, high-gloss finishes have an extremely high sheen, ideal for accentuating architectural details, such as shutters, railings, and doors, while also providing excellent durability and washability. The right sheen can enhance the overall aesthetic of your home’s exterior, so carefully consider the level of shine that best suits your needs and preferences.

Environmental Impact and Odor

When selecting exterior house paints, the environmental impact and odor are also important factors to ponder. Low-VOC paints are an eco-friendly choice, releasing fewer harmful chemicals into the air. Some brands offer VOC levels as low as 50 g/L. Water-based paints typically have lower VOC levels and less odor compared to oil-based alternatives, making them a popular pick for exterior painting projects.

Look for paints labeled as “eco-friendly” or “green,” which usually meet standards for low VOC, biodegradability, and non-toxicity. Certifications from organizations like Greenguard Gold or California Air Resources Board (CARB) indicate strict adherence to these criteria. Even with low-VOC options, follow safety precautions like wearing masks and working in well-ventilated areas to minimize exposure to fumes and odors.

Application Ease and Cleanup

Opting for a water-based exterior house paint can simplify the application process and cleanup. These paints are easier to work with, as they don’t require harsh solvents or paint thinners for cleanup. Instead, you can rely on soap and water, reducing the risk of spills and the need for specialized cleaning products.

Additionally, look for paints with a high-build formula, which can be applied in a single coat, saving you time and effort. Self-priming paints are another convenient option, as they eliminate the need for a separate primer application, streamlining the overall painting process.

When selecting an exterior paint, prioritize low-VOC formulas to minimize strong fumes and odors during application. These eco-friendly options create a more comfortable and safer working environment, making the project more enjoyable. Ultimately, choosing the right exterior paint with application ease and cleanup in mind can optimize your time and effort, leading to a successful and satisfying painting experience.

Color Selection and Matching

Choosing the right exterior house paint color is crucial in enhancing your home’s curb appeal. When selecting a hue, consider your home’s natural surroundings, including the color of neighboring houses, landscaping, and even the sky. This confirms the chosen color complements the environment. It’s also essential to test the paint color on a small, inconspicuous area before committing to a specific shade, as the color may appear different under various lighting conditions.

Fortunately, color matching technology can help you find the perfect exterior paint color. By analyzing a photo of your house, these tools provide a matching color palette that can elevate your home’s aesthetic. Additionally, many paint manufacturers offer online color selection tools and apps that allow you to virtually “try on” different exterior paint colors, making the decision-making process more seamless.

Coverage and Opacity

One critical factor to ponder when selecting exterior house paints is their coverage and opacity. Most exterior paints cover between 250-400 square feet per gallon, but this can vary based on factors like surface porosity, texture, and color. Opacity, or hiding power, refers to the paint’s ability to completely conceal the underlying surface, and higher opacity paints require fewer coats.

To guarantee adequate coverage, you’ll need to carefully calculate the surface area to be painted and select a paint with suitable opacity for your project. Some exterior paints feature specialized formulas designed for specific surfaces like stucco or wood, offering improved coverage and opacity. By understanding these key factors, you can choose the right exterior paint to efficiently and effectively transform the look of your home.

Warranties and Guarantees

A manufacturer’s warranty or guarantee can provide valuable assurance of a paint’s quality and durability. Many manufacturers offer coverage ranging from 5 to 15 years, protecting against defects and performance issues. Some even provide a limited lifetime warranty, giving you long-term peace of mind against fading, cracking, and peeling.

Be sure to review the fine print, as the terms and conditions can vary. Maintaining validity may require following specific application and surface preparation guidelines, such as using the manufacturer’s recommended primer. Look for retailers that offer their own return or satisfaction guarantees, which can provide an extra layer of protection if you’re unsatisfied with the paint’s performance.

A robust warranty or guarantee can give you confidence that your exterior paint investment will withstand the elements and continue looking great for years to come. Consider this carefully as you evaluate your options and select the best paint for your home.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Recommended Lifespan of Exterior House Paints?

Exterior house paints generally last 5-10 years, but their lifespan can vary. High-quality paints tend to last longer, while factors like climate and surface preparation impact durability. Proper maintenance is key to getting the most from your exterior paint job.

Can I Use Interior Paint for Exterior Surfaces?

You shouldn’t use interior paint for exterior surfaces – it won’t last. In fact, exterior paints are formulated to withstand harsh weather, with a typical lifespan of 5-10 years, much longer than interior paints.

How Do I Properly Prepare the Surface Before Painting?

Before painting the exterior, you’ll need to thoroughly prepare the surface. This includes cleaning, sanding, and priming any trouble spots to guarantee the new paint adheres properly and lasts.

What Are the Benefits of Using Low-Voc or Eco-Friendly Paints?

Using low-VOC or eco-friendly paints offers several advantages. They’re better for the environment, healthier for your family, and can even improve indoor air quality compared to traditional paint options. Plus, they often last just as long and perform just as well.

How Do I Determine the Right Amount of Paint to Purchase?

To determine the right amount of paint to purchase, measure the surface area you need to cover and factor in the paint’s coverage rate. This’ll guarantee you buy enough without wasting extra. Check the product details to estimate the right quantity.

Conclusion

When choosing an exterior house paint, go for one that’s built to last. The top-rated options offer satin finishes, UV resistance, eco-friendly formulas, and long-lasting guarantees. These paints won’t let you down, ensuring your home’s facade stays looking its best for years to come. With a wealth of high-performing choices, you’re sure to find the perfect paint to spruce up your abode.