Why You Shouldn’t Use Interior Paint on Property Exteriors
“Can you use interior paint outside?” Many property owners have found themselves asking this question when they get tempted to use leftover interior paint for an outdoor project. It might seem like a thrifty move, but in reality, applying interior paint on exterior surfaces is a recipe for trouble. Interior paints are formulated with different considerations than exterior paints, making them unsuitable for outdoor use. Knowing why can save you from future headaches and ensure that your property remains protected and beautiful.
Interior vs Exterior Paints: What’s the Difference?
The concerns that arise from using interior paint on exteriors center around durability and resistance. Interior paints are crafted to resist scrubbing and allow for easy cleaning, focusing less on withstanding harsh weather conditions. Exterior paints, conversely, are made with flexibility in mind to cope with expansion and contraction due to temperature changes, as well as containing additives that protect against fading, mildew, moisture, and more.
The Drawbacks of Using Interior Paint Outdoors
The inappropriate use of interior paints outside can lead to several issues:
- Peeling and cracking due to a lack of flexibility in extreme temperatures.
- Fading and color distortion because of insufficient UV protection.
- Overall diminished longevity of the paint job compared to the correct type of paint.
These problems ultimately mean needing repainting sooner than expected, which can become costly both in materials and labor over time. To avoid this potential extra expense and effort, it’s essential always to choose the correct type of paint for the job at hand.
A Professional Approach to Painting
To maintain exterior beauty and integrity, professional interior painting services strongly advise using products designed specifically for outdoor use. These services possess extensive knowledge about which products perform best under various environmental conditions and can guide homeowners toward making informed choices. Professional painters also understand the necessary steps for surface preparation — an aspect critical to a successful coat’s adhesion and longevity outdoors.
Can You Use Interior Paint Outside? Let Our Team Provide the Answer
EZ Renovations offers expert advice and application ensuring your property’s exteriors are coated correctly. If you find yourself wondering, “Can you use interior paint outside?”, or if you’re ready to book an appointment with our painting experts in Tacoma, WA, call us today at (253) 340-2432!