Painting the exterior of your home is one of the most effective ways to elevate its curb appeal, protect it from harsh weather, and increase its overall value. Choosing the right exterior paint is crucial, as it must endure rain, UV rays, temperature fluctuations, and more. To help you make an informed decision, we’ve curated a list of the top 11 high-performance exterior paints. Each option promises superior quality and long-lasting results.
This guide includes a buying guide, FAQs, and detailed reviews of premium exterior paints available online to help you choose the best product for your project.
Contents
- Top 11 Exterior Paints at a Glance
- Detailed Reviews of the Best Exterior Paints
- 1. Sherwin-Williams Duration Exterior Paint
- 2. Benjamin Moore Aura Exterior Paint
- 3. Behr Marquee Exterior Paint
- 4. Valspar Duramax Exterior Paint
- 5. Rust-Oleum Zinsser Perma-White Exterior Paint
- 6. KILZ Exterior Siding, Fence, and Barn Paint
- 7. PPG Timeless Exterior Paint and Primer
- 8. Dunn-Edwards Evershield Exterior Paint
- 9. Farrow & Ball Exterior Eggshell Paint
- 10. Glidden Premium Exterior Paint
- 11. Olympic Assure Exterior Paint
- Buying Guide for Exterior Paints
- FAQs About Exterior Paints
- Conclusion
Top 11 Exterior Paints at a Glance
- Sherwin-Williams Duration Exterior Paint
Premium weather-resistant formula with advanced acrylic technology for ultimate durability. - Benjamin Moore Aura Exterior Paint
Provides rich color and excellent fade resistance, perfect for all climates. - Behr Marquee Exterior Paint
Offers superior stain-blocking and weather resistance for extreme conditions. - Valspar Duramax Exterior Paint
Features FlexShield technology for excellent crack and fade resistance. - Rust-Oleum Zinsser Perma-White Exterior Paint
Mold and mildew-resistant finish ideal for humid climates. - KILZ Exterior Siding, Fence, and Barn Paint
Durable and water-resistant option for wood and masonry surfaces. - PPG Timeless Exterior Paint and Primer
Advanced UV protection and self-priming formula for lasting results. - Dunn-Edwards Evershield Exterior Paint
High-hide formula with exceptional color retention. - Farrow & Ball Exterior Eggshell Paint
Luxurious finish with exceptional breathability for wood and metal. - Glidden Premium Exterior Paint
Budget-friendly option with decent coverage and weather resistance. - Olympic Assure Exterior Paint
Value-focused paint with good adhesion and mildew resistance.
Detailed Reviews of the Best Exterior Paints
1. Sherwin-Williams Duration Exterior Paint
This premium paint is known for its advanced acrylic co-polymer technology, offering unparalleled durability and weather resistance. It creates a breathable film that resists peeling and blistering, even in the most challenging climates.
- Key Features:
- Superior moisture resistance
- Fade-resistant colors
- Low VOC formula
- Best For: Homes in areas with high humidity or frequent rain.
- Pros:
- Exceptional coverage in fewer coats
- Long-lasting finish
- Cons:
- Higher price point
2. Benjamin Moore Aura Exterior Paint
Aura is a top-tier paint that combines deep color saturation with superior fade resistance. Its Color Lock technology ensures vibrant, enduring shades.
- Key Features:
- Excellent coverage
- Low-temperature application capability
- Best For: Homeowners seeking vibrant and fade-resistant colors.
- Pros:
- Mildew-resistant coating
- Smooth application
- Cons:
- Requires careful surface preparation
3. Behr Marquee Exterior Paint
This paint-and-primer combo offers excellent adhesion and resistance to stains and weather. It’s an ideal choice for areas with harsh conditions.
- Key Features:
- Advanced stain-blocking technology
- Superior UV protection
- Best For: Homes in sunny regions with extreme temperature shifts.
- Pros:
- Quick-drying formula
- Available in a wide range of colors
- Cons:
- Slightly thicker consistency
4. Valspar Duramax Exterior Paint
Valspar’s Duramax features FlexShield technology for superior flexibility, making it ideal for surfaces prone to cracking or peeling.
- Key Features:
- All-weather adhesion
- Excellent fade resistance
- Best For: Homes with wood or masonry surfaces prone to cracking.
- Pros:
- Lifetime warranty
- Good coverage
- Cons:
- Limited availability in certain areas
5. Rust-Oleum Zinsser Perma-White Exterior Paint
This self-priming exterior paint offers a mold- and mildew-resistant finish, perfect for humid or rainy environments.
- Key Features:
- Stain- and moisture-resistant
- Self-priming formula
- Best For: Coastal homes or areas with high rainfall.
- Pros:
- Durable satin finish
- Easy to clean
- Cons:
- Limited color range
6. KILZ Exterior Siding, Fence, and Barn Paint
This budget-friendly option offers excellent durability and water resistance for wood and masonry surfaces.
- Key Features:
- UV-resistant finish
- Mildew-resistant coating
- Best For: Large projects like barns, fences, and siding.
- Pros:
- Affordable price
- Excellent adhesion
- Cons:
- Requires multiple coats for vibrant colors
7. PPG Timeless Exterior Paint and Primer
PPG Timeless combines primer and paint in one for superior coverage and protection. It’s resistant to fading, cracking, and peeling.
- Key Features:
- Advanced UV resistance
- Durable finish
- Best For: Homes in sunny or windy locations.
- Pros:
- Available in hundreds of shades
- Self-priming formula
- Cons:
- Drying time is longer than others
8. Dunn-Edwards Evershield Exterior Paint
This paint is formulated to provide outstanding durability and high-hide coverage. It is an excellent choice for both residential and commercial applications.
- Key Features:
- Long-lasting color retention
- Superior weather resistance
- Best For: Homes in extreme climates or areas with frequent weather changes.
- Pros:
- Excellent resistance to cracking and peeling
- Smooth finish
- Cons:
- Limited availability in certain regions
9. Farrow & Ball Exterior Eggshell Paint
Known for its luxury finish, this paint offers a breathable and flexible coating suitable for wood and metal surfaces. It adds a touch of sophistication to any exterior project.
- Key Features:
- Environmentally friendly formula
- Elegant low-sheen finish
- Best For: High-end projects requiring a luxurious finish.
- Pros:
- Easy to apply and maintain
- High durability
- Cons:
- Premium price
10. Glidden Premium Exterior Paint
Glidden’s exterior paint is a budget-friendly option that doesn’t compromise on quality. It provides good coverage and weather resistance, making it suitable for various projects.
- Key Features:
- Decent adhesion
- Easy to clean
- Best For: DIY projects and homeowners on a budget.
- Pros:
- Affordable price point
- Wide availability
- Cons:
- May require additional coats for full coverage
11. Olympic Assure Exterior Paint
Olympic Assure delivers good adhesion and mildew resistance, making it a reliable choice for exterior surfaces. Its value-focused pricing makes it accessible for large projects.
- Key Features:
- Durable and weather-resistant
- Mildew-resistant formula
- Best For: Homes in moderate climates with occasional rainfall.
- Pros:
- Easy application
- Cost-effective
- Cons:
- Limited color selection
Buying Guide for Exterior Paints
When selecting the best exterior paint, consider these factors:
1. Weather Resistance
Choose a paint that can withstand your local climate. Look for paints with UV resistance, moisture protection, and flexibility.
2. Surface Type
Ensure the paint is compatible with your surface, whether it’s wood, brick, stucco, or metal.
3. Coverage and Finish
Premium paints offer better coverage, reducing the number of coats needed. Popular finishes include flat, satin, and gloss.
4. VOC Levels
Opt for low-VOC paints for a safer and more environmentally friendly option.
5. Color Retention
High-quality exterior paints resist fading and maintain their vibrancy longer.
FAQs About Exterior Paints
1. How many coats of paint are needed for exterior surfaces?
Typically, two coats are sufficient for optimal coverage and durability. However, some premium paints require only one coat.
2. What is the best finish for exterior paint?
Satin and semi-gloss finishes are the most popular for exterior applications, offering durability and easy cleaning.
3. How long does exterior paint last?
High-quality exterior paints can last 10-15 years with proper surface preparation and application.
4. Can I use interior paint for exterior surfaces?
No. Exterior paints are specifically formulated to resist weather and UV damage, unlike interior paints.
5. When is the best time to paint the exterior of a house?
Spring and fall are ideal, as moderate temperatures allow for better adhesion and curing.
Conclusion
Choosing the best exterior paint ensures your home not only looks beautiful but also withstands the test of time.
Whether you prioritize vibrant colors, weather resistance, or eco-friendliness, this list offers a variety of premium options to suit your needs.
For superior quality and long-lasting results, any of these top 11 exterior paints is a fantastic investment for your next project.