• Exterior House Painthouse detail image by Alexey Stiop from Fotolia.com
  
  Choosing the correct type of paint for an outdoor project will not only add to the appearance of your home, but will also provide the surface with protection from the sun, moisture and environmental hazards. The type of paint you choose should be based on the type of surface to be painted, if you will be painting over existing paint and personal preference. Regardless of the type of paint you choose, keep in mind that purchasing a high-quality paint will require fewer applications and offer greater durability.
  
  

Latex

• Latex is the most popular and easiest to use paint for exterior surfaces. Latex paints dry quickly, provide easy soap and water clean-up, have no odor and are environmentally friendly. Latex paints do not become brittle as they age, and they allow the surface below to "breathe" making it less likely to blister or crack than an oil based paint. It is important to prime the surface thoroughly if you will be applying a latex paint over a pre-existing oil based paint; failure to do so will result in the latex paint peeling or flaking.
  
  

Alkyd

• Alkyd paint, commonly referred to as oil-based resin, consists of naturally drying oils mixed with paint thinner or solvents. Alkyd paint provides exceptional durability and stain resistance and are easy to clean. They require less surface preparation and adhere better to most surfaces than latex paint. Because of their slow drying time, they go on smooth and show very little brush strokes which leads to a smoother finish. Alkyd paints may yellow or become brittle with age, they have a strong odor and require solvent for clean-up.
  
  

Specialty Formulas

• Paints that are applied to porches, decks, masonry, gutters and pool surfaces require special formulations and specific surface preparation to ensure coverage and durability.
  
  When painting decks, floors and porches it is recommended to use a 100 percent acrylic latex for best results because of it weather-resistant properties. Power-wash surfaces prior to painting to remove cracked or chipped paint.
  
  For the best results when painting the gutters on your home use an oil-based paint as they adhere better to tin, steel and aluminum. To ensure the best results, apply a galvanized steel primer to the surface before painting.
  
  Latex is the paint of choice for masonry; it adheres well to concrete, stucco, cement and shingles. Most surfaces will require a bonding primer prior to applying paint.
  
  A polymerized cement-based paint should be used for concrete and gunite pool surfaces. You will need to check the label carefully to ensure compatibility with your pool. Look for a paint that is stain and abrasion resistant.
  
  When choosing a paint for your roof, look for one that is mildew and algae proof. An acrylic-latex blend works well and can be dyed to match the color of your roof. Remember that paint should not be relied on for waterproofing.