Difference between interior and exterior paint.

Choosing the right paint for your home is essential for achieving the desired aesthetic and protecting your walls from wear and tear. However, not all paint is created equal, and there are significant differences between interior and exterior paint. In this article, we will explore the differences between interior and exterior paint and help you make an informed decision when choosing the right paint for your home.

Composition

The primary difference between interior and exterior paint is their composition. Interior paint is designed to be used indoors, where there is less exposure to harsh weather and environmental conditions. As a result, interior paint is made with different ingredients than exterior paint. It contains fewer additives and resins, which makes it less durable than exterior paint.

Exterior paint, on the other hand, is specifically designed to withstand harsh weather conditions such as rain, snow, wind, and UV rays. It is made with a higher concentration of resins, which makes it more durable and resistant to cracking, chalking, and peeling.

Durability

Another significant difference between interior and exterior paint is their durability. Interior paint is formulated to withstand normal wear and tear, such as scuffing and staining. However, it is not designed to withstand exposure to the elements or harsh weather conditions. This means that if you use interior paint on the exterior of your home, it will not hold up well and will start to peel and fade quickly.

Exterior paint, on the other hand, is formulated to withstand exposure to the elements and harsh weather conditions. It is designed to be waterproof and resistant to fading, peeling, and cracking. This makes it a much more durable option for the exterior of your home.

Sheen

The sheen of a paint refers to its level of glossiness or shine. Interior and exterior paints come in different sheen levels, and it's essential to choose the right one for the job. In general, interior paints come in a wider range of sheens than exterior paints.

For interior paint, you can choose from flat, eggshell, satin, semi-gloss, or high-gloss sheens. Flat sheen is the least shiny and is best for hiding imperfections on walls and ceilings. Eggshell and satin sheens are slightly shinier than flat sheen and are suitable for walls in high-traffic areas. Semi-gloss and high-gloss sheens are the shiniest and are best for trim and molding.

Exterior paint, on the other hand, typically comes in flat, satin, or semi-gloss sheens. Flat sheen is best for hiding imperfections on the exterior of your home, while satin and semi-gloss sheens are more durable and easier to clean.

Colorfastness

Another significant difference between interior and exterior paint is their colorfastness. Interior paint is less prone to fading, as it is not exposed to the sun and weather like exterior paint. This means that interior paint colors will generally stay truer over time.

Exterior paint, on the other hand, is exposed to the sun and weather, which can cause it to fade over time. This is why it's essential to choose an exterior paint that is specifically formulated to resist fading.

In conclusion, choosing the right paint for your home is crucial for achieving the desired aesthetic and protecting your walls from wear and tear. Interior and exterior paints are formulated differently, with different compositions, sheens, durability, and colorfastness. By understanding these differences, you can make an informed decision when choosing the right paint for your home. If you're not sure which paint to use, consult with a professional painter or paint supplier for expert advice.