There’s no question that the exterior of a home can take a beating from inclement weather conditions. This can change from region to region. Northern climates can be brutally cold, along with the wind and snow can wreak havoc on the exterior paint. Homes in the southern and warmer regions of the states have to have exterior painting that can withstand high humidity and extreme heat. Extreme temperatures, moisture and overexposure to sunlight can be destructive on the exterior portion of the home. Exterior painting in warmer climates needs special care and certain types of paint are preferable over others.
Best Exterior Paint for Summer
A good paint to use in the hotter regions will keep the severe and extreme weather on the outside but also allows the surface to breathe. This will allow moisture vapor to escape. If paint retains moisture it can damage the surfaces it is covering as well as create an environment which is conducive to the growth of mold or mildew. One option is to purchase special paints which have a professional grade mildewcide additive which will inhibit the growth of mildew. In warmer regions where the climate is conducive to the growth of mold and mildew, homeowners can choose the right type of paint which will be more resistant to mildew. In general, premium quality exterior latex paints are more resistant to mildew than alkyd based paints. Choosing a 100% acrylic latex paint instead of a vinyl acrylic paint will help provide resistance to the growth of mold and mildew.
Overexposure to the Elements
One of the harshest elements that warmer climates can provide as far as exterior paint goes is sunlight. UV rays can cause paint to fade or chalk. Latex paint will help resist the effects of extreme sunlight. Oil-based paints are not as resistant. Another problem is exterior painting that is done on wooden surfaces. When wood is exposed to elements such as moist or wet conditions it will expand and contract. This can cause many paints to flake or crack. It is essential to use a breathable latex paint which will allow moisture to escape without damaging the wood it is protecting. Latex paint has a little bit of elasticity which allows it to contract and expand even after it has cured. It will not blister or crack like other paint types will.
Another factor that can wreak havoc on an exterior painting project is drastic temperature changes. Many regions in the heart of the nation have extreme temperatures sometimes in a matter of a few hours. These drastic temperature changes can also cause wood and siding to contract and expand. Using an acrylic latex paint will help the home deal with the harshness of seasonal changes. It is the best type of exterior paint to use in areas where there is real active freeze – thaw cycles.
Preparing the Surface
Bubbling, cracking, peeling or mildew can many times be totally avoided by properly preparing the surface before doing any exterior painting. Once the surface is properly prepared, applying the paint that is appropriate for the climate will help protect the exterior portions of the home. Good paints will help keep severe and extreme weather from affecting the outside of the house.