Full Gloss Enamel Paint Vs. Low Sheen Acrylic Outside Paint

Features of High-Gloss Enamel Paint

• High-gloss enamel paint is highly durable and offers a smooth finish. Higher-end exterior oil paints, such as Sherwin-Williams (a favorite among contractors) SWP exterior gloss, are designed for all exterior wood and metal surfaces when combine with an appropriate primer. They can be applied ideally in temperatures ranging from 50 to 90 degrees. Glossier paints produce a shiny finish which might show imperfections on the surface.

Features of Flat Latex-Acrylic Exterior Paint

• Properties and capabilities of flat latex-acrylic paint vary greatly based on the quality. Higher-end latex-acrylic paints, such as Sherwin Williams Duration and SuperPaint, are durable, cleanable and offer a high level of hideability. These paints should not be applied in temperatures above 90 degrees or below 50 degrees, though some premium latex brands can be applied in temperatures as low as 35 degrees.

Considerations

• High-gloss enamels offer little hideability compared to flatter paints due to their high sheen, but even the cheapest high-gloss enamels are cleanable and durable. Exterior latex-acrylic paints, on the other hand, offer high levels of hideability and produce a nice uniform, but are less cleanable and durable than glossier paints. However, higher-end latex-acrylics can offer the same levels of durability as glossy enamels.

Which is Better?

• Choosing between the paints ultimately comes down to personal preference and environmental considerations. The moderators at house-paintinginfo.com write, "Choosing exterior paint involves a lot of knowledge about regional weather and products best suited for a given surface. This knowledge comes from years of experience using different products." There is no one best answer, so if you have major concerns about the longevity of your paint job, it might be helpful to consult a local professional.

Warnings

• Follow the detailed instructions for paint application and clean-up. Latex paints, while water based, contain a certain percentage of VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds) that can be hazardous to your health. Oil-based paints also contain VOCs and need to be applied in well ventilated areas.