What’s the Difference Between Interior & Exterior Paint?

There are countless factors to consider while picking out paint for a project, like its sheen, whether it’s oil or latex, or even exterior or interior paint. When you know the ins-and-outs of paint, you can easily determine which of these factors you need to consider and why. For now, let’s start with the difference between exterior and interior paint, because you have to begin somewhere! Read on to learn the difference between these two types of paint and how to determine which one is best for your needs.

The Difference Between Exterior & Interior Paint

One of the most basic divides between types of paints is whether you’re searching for interior or exterior. The name gives away the key difference, which is the intent for which each of these paints is meant to be used—one for the outside of your home to stand up against weathering, and the other for the inside, to resist scuffs and look flawless for years to come.

Exterior Paints

Exterior paints are made to hold up against rough weathering, so they’re durable and in it for the long-run. They’re considered flexible, which means that they expand and contract seasonally, whether its hot or cold outside, preventing them from cracking or peeling away. They also have fade and mildew-resistant additives so they continue looking great and protecting the outside of your home.

Interior Paints

Interior paints that a professional house painter would recommend for your living room or kitchen are designed to resist scuffs and scrapes caused by everyday use of a room. Many are even specially made to easily be cleaned occasionally, depending on your needs. Each of these traits of interior paint makes the coating more rigid, which is the opposite as exterior paint and would lead to cracking and peeling if you put it outdoors.

Determining Which Option Would Be Best For Your Needs

The easiest way to determine which type of paint is best for your needs is to ask yourself whether the area that you’re painting will need to withstand weathering and temperature changes. If not, interior paint is the choice for you. Otherwise, you would need to go with exterior paint.

Getting Help By Consulting a Pro

At the end of the day, the best thing that you can do to see your project through to the finish line and get the results you’re hoping for is to consult with a professional painter. They know the ins-and-outs of paint like nobody’s business and will make sure that the new coating you’re putting on or in your home continues looking fantastic for years to come. After all, there’s nothing worse than having to turn around right after you finish a project and having to redo it because the paint has already begun cracking a month later.

About Platinum Painting of Dallas

At Platinum Painting of Dallas, we take pride in helping homeowners achieve the best and longest-lasting results possible. Our team of professionals sticks with them along every step of the way to help choose the best type and color of paint to fit their needs. For questions or to schedule a free in-home estimate, visit our website or call 214-347-7269.