To prevent peeling and cracking, paint exterior surfaces with the proper paint.
Exterior paints are designed to withstand harsh outdoor conditions. Although both water-based and oil-based finishes are durable, one exterior paint finish will not paint all types of material. Some surfaces bond better with alkyds, while others require the flexibility of latex paints. Make sure you have the right paint for the exterior surface you're covering.
Oil or Latex
Latex, or water-based finishes are fade-resistant, breathable and fast-drying. Alkyd, or oil-based paints have a strong bond to most surfaces and can penetrate chalky surfaces. The breath-ability of a latex paint makes it ideal for surfaces where moisture may be an issue because it won't peel or crack when the moisture is drawn out to the surface. On previously painted exterior surfaces, your decision will rest in what type of paint was used initially. Oil-based paints will not always cover latex because of latex paint's higher flexibility.
Primer
Check the label to be sure what you're buying is suitable for the surface you're priming. Typically, alkyd, or oil-based, primers are recommended, but latex primers work better on surfaces like vinyl. Before priming any exterior surface remove old paint first. A dirty or poorly prepared surface can lead to blistering or peeling, which has nothing to do with the quality of the paint.
Siding
Vinyl siding expands and contracts more than other building materials, so latex paint is ideal because it is flexible. With quality paint, you won't have to prime flat finishes, but for glossy finishes, prepare the area with a latex bonding primer to ensure the paint will adhere. Latex paints are also ideal for wood siding because they're more resistant to humidity and fading than alkyd paints. Aluminum siding can be painted with oil-based paint, but must be primed first.
Masonry
Exterior paints designed for masonry surfaces like stucco or concrete are typically water-based. Oil-based exterior paint is not recommended because of the residue that alkyds leave in the masonry. When painting masonry, a special primer must be applied first to bond the dust and old chalk that can be on the surface to the masonry.
Steel
Galvanized steel and aluminum surfaces like gutters can be painted with latex or oil-based paints. For tin, oil-based is better. Don't apply oil-based paint directly to unpainted galvanized metal. Prime with a primer intended for galvanized metal .
Wood
For wood doors, although latex is fine, alkyd is more resistant to friction and will hold up better to scuffs and constant movement. Untreated window sills, siding and frames require a preservative treatment before painting or staining to protect the wood from rot.
Floors
Exterior paints designed for floors must withstand constant foot traffic. This type of exterior paint is available in both oil and latex finishes. Oil finishes have a medium or high gloss which makes them easier to clean and latex dries to a flat finish. On concrete floors, specifically those in contact with constant moisture, such as a patio, oil paints will not properly adhere to a wet surface. The alkali present in concrete surfaces can also mix with the oil in the paint to form a soap. This leads to peeling, lifting and poor adhesion.
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