A fresh coat of paint can make a home feel new again. It can also increase the value of your property.
Paint protects surfaces from moisture, stains, mold and mildew growth, and extreme temperatures. It can even seal small cracks that could eventually damage the structural integrity of a building.
What’s the Difference?
While all paint contains the same basic ingredients, the binders and additives give each type of paint its specific properties. Exterior paints use heavier binders and additives to withstand harsh weather conditions and prevent chipping and cracking. Interior paints prioritize factors like scrubbability and resistance to stains, and they typically contain low-odor or low VOC (volatile organic compound) content to ensure safe indoor air quality.
It’s important to note that using the wrong type of paint can void most manufacturer warranties and lead to premature wear or damage. For example, interior latex can be used on some outdoor surfaces, but exterior latex would not hold up to 90-degree heat or freezing sleet. It also wouldn’t stand up to abrasion from rubbing and scraping, as well as the repeated cleaning required to scuff and mark walls. This is because the resins used in each type of paint are different.
The Environment
A fresh coat of paint can transform a home’s interior. It protects surfaces from mold, mildew and other harmful substances, keeps them in better condition for longer, and enhances resale value.
Exterior paints must be able to withstand many climate conditions, from moisture caused by rain and snow to the UV radiation produced by sunlight. They are made of binding resins and additives that help them resist discoloration, fading and fungal growth.
As a result, it is crucial to pick the right type of paint and ensure that it is used correctly. For example, it is best to apply an exterior paint during the warmer months when the chances of rainfall are minimal. Also, to avoid wasting materials and labor, the surface needs to be cleaned, sanded and scraped prior to painting. To make your painting project easier and more efficient, choose a ladder that is tall enough to allow you to reach all areas of the house.
Safety
Painting is a popular home project, and it’s a great way to freshen up rooms and furniture. However, it can be dangerous when improper safety measures are not taken.
Paint fumes can cause a variety of health problems, including allergic skin reactions, fatigue, and dizziness. These side effects are especially common in individuals who work around paint for extended periods of time without proper ventilation.
For these reasons, painters should always use personal protective equipment (PPE), including face masks and respirators. They should also follow strict safety procedures when working on ladders and other elevated platforms.
Exterior painting is best performed during dry weather conditions. Rain and humidity can interfere with the application process, and can lead to a poor finish. This can be costly for both homeowners and contractors, as it eats into the time and money they have set aside for the project.
Cost
Interior paints tend to be cheaper than exterior paints. However, the quality of interior paints also varies. Typically, high-quality paint is more durable and will last longer than low-quality paint. This may mean that you’ll need to repaint your home less often, which saves money in the long run.
Exterior painting, especially on more textured surfaces like pebbledash or cement renders, is more expensive than painting flat walls. It can also cost more to hire a decorator with experience working with these types of materials.
A large part of the cost of exterior painting is associated with the weather. If your planned project is rained out, you’ll lose the time and money you invested in planning and preparing for the job. This is why many painting companies choose to work during the winter when the weather is usually less extreme. This also allows them to offer more competitive prices.
