Nylon vs. Polyester for an Exterior Paintbrush

Synthetic vs. Natural Fibers

• Both nylon and polyester are synthetic fibers. They tend to have a longer life span and are less expensive than natural products and will wear better as long as proper care and cleaning are provided. Natural fibers are made from sable, squirrel, hog, camel or pony hair and have a flexibility and strength not available in synthetics. These characteristics give the painter a more perfect line for fine detail work, a factor that is unlikely to matter for most outdoor projects. With the wide availability and low cost of synthetic brushes, natural products are reserved more for canvas painting than large outdoor projects.

Nylon vs. Polyester Uses

• Nylon bristles are a bit thicker and stiffer than their polyester counterparts. This means that with either latex or oil-based paints, nylon will hold its shape better and last longer. It is an ideal choice for rough surfaces, including wooden decks, stairs or railings. Polyester bristles will hold more paint and release with a thicker, smoother finish. Cleanup of polyester is easier than with nylon, according to house-painting-info.com. Wood finishes and stains, including polyurethane and other waterproofers, are better applied with a solid polyester brush or one with a combination of nylon and polyester.

Brush Quality

• Brush quality is an essential part of achieving a professional, clean look on an outdoor project. Though good brushes usually cost more, they last longer and will produce fuller coats than lower-quality alternatives. Full nylon brushes are more durable than polyester and work well on outdoor projects, including rough or abrasive surfaces. The material itself is soft and flexible and serves as an excellent tool for cutting in around edges. Polyester provides a stiffer texture that is ideal for smooth, flat surfaces like metal furniture or fencing.

Oil or Alcohol Based Paints

• Oil- and alcohol-based paints and stains are more difficult to clean up than latex paints. They require the use of turpentine for cleaning, and brushes must be cleaned promptly to prevent the brush from being ruined. Oil-based products are primarily used to cover older layers of oil-based products, as latex will flake off. These products are ideal for use outdoors because they weather well and are resistant to extreme temperatures. China or ox-hair brushes are traditional choices for application, but a combination polyester-nylon brush is a better option.

  Oil paints are thicker and heavier than latex, a characteristic that won’t cause damage or misshaping to either nylon or polyester brushes. Additionally, the range of softness and stiffness in synthetic brushes makes working with the paint easier. Softer brushes can be used for stains and sealants, while firmer brushes work better for paint.