What is Exterior Latex Paint?

Exterior latex paint refers to certain types of paint suitable for painting many home exteriors. Though the name latex is used, ingredients in the paint usually don’t contain any material from rubber trees. Instead they may be a combination of plastic resin or other manufactured chemicals and water.

Would be painters may be interested in specific ingredients in exterior latex paint, and here there will be some variance depending upon brand and color. Some common ingredients are relatively benign like calcium carbonate, which is often used in antacids, and aluminum silicate or kaolin. Others main ingredients may include things like quartz or sand which helps add volume to the paint, and of course water.

In many instances latex paint is preferred because it can be cleaned up easily and it doesn’t usually require the use of paint thinners or removers that can pose a fire hazard. A person who gets latex paint on clothing or hair will have a relatively easy time removing it, especially if the paint is still damp. This type of paint is also preferred because it is relatively durable and quick-drying as compared to oil-based or alkyd paints.

There can be numerous advantages to using exterior latex paint for things like the outside of homes. In addition to easy cleanup, these paints are called opaque because they will cover others colors completely. People will note that any paint designated as exterior tends to be more expensive than interior paints. This is because they must contain more of the resin than do interior types. This additional resin keeps them moisture resistant when dry and makes them more durable in various types of weather conditions.

Even though exterior latex paint has numerous advantages, it isn’t suitable for all exteriors. If the paint is being applied over alkyd paint, the results may not be as desirable. Experts on painting recommend covering the existing paint with the same type for best finish and look.

Certain surfaces should not be painted with exterior latex paint because it is water based. Rusting may occur if the paint is used on steel. Anyone who may be painting a whole house or building with various types of material should determine the type of paint that works best on a variety of surfaces. This may very well be exterior latex paint, but other paint choices may be more suitable in some circumstances.

Thrifty folks who’d like to paint some interiors may wonder if they can use exterior latex paint for this purpose. This is generally not recommended because odors will be stronger and the paint won’t dry as quickly. The practice isn’t unheard of though, and people who do plan to use an exterior paint indoors should make sure the home is adequately ventilated, and should also plan for extended drying time. Final results may not be as visually appealing as when interior paint is used instead.