Making Positive Business Choices

Painting the exterior of your home probably isn't a task that you want to repeat too often, especially with the expense and the labor involved. Yet, all too often, exterior paints begin to crumble and flake after just a year or two. The key to avoiding this is to select paint products that last and combine them with the best application methods. The following are a few ways you can do this.

Check the warranty

Many quality paint products come with a warranty. Checking the warranty can give you clues to how well the paint is expected to stand the test of time. For example, a paint that is only warrantied against peeling or bubbling but not against color fading may not have a very long color life, whereas the one with the long-term warranty against both damage and fading may provide more longevity. As a general rule, inorganic pigments last longer and remain brighter compared to organic pigments, so they generally have a longer warranty. Also, a warranty is no guarantee against damage, but it can help offset the cost if premature damage does occur.

Opt for coatings instead of paint

Many homeowners choose their exterior paint and call it good, but if you want the most longevity, you should opt for an architectural coating instead. These paints are designed to last longer than standard exterior paint because they contain elements to help them withstand specific weathering issues. For example, in hot, dry, and sunny climates, a coating that contains a UV light blocker is more likely to remain bright and in good condition compared to one without. In wet climates, you may want a coating that is naturally mildew resistant.

Consider a clear coat

Clear coatings applied over your paint, whether it's a standard exterior paint or a specialty coating, can also help prolong its life. This is especially true in marine environments or regions with harsh winters. The clear coat is effectively a protective layer that cuts down on damage exposure for the paint underneath. One benefit of a clear coat is that it can increase your color options since you can help increase the durability of any type of paint with the addition of the clear coat. You can even get clear coats with some architectural coating benefits, such as UV blockers.

As you can see, the key to saving money and time is to choose the correct paint or architectural coating. Spending a little more here can result in major savings in the long run. Contact an architectural coating service like Top Gun Powder Coating for more help.