Yet an additional factor needs to be considered: paint sheen or gloss.
Paint sheen is related to the paint’s strength and its ability to hold up against these stresses.
The recommended paint sheens for the exterior are satin/eggshell, semi-gloss, and gloss.
The Spruce / Nelly Cuanalo
Most homeowners are familiar with the shineor lack of shinethat paint exhibits.
A mirror-like paint sheen is glossy; light reflects off of it.
A flat or matte paint sheen is dull; it absorbs light.
Between those two extremes are a few other degrees of sheen, including eggshell and satin.
A paint’s performance also hinges on its sheen.
High-gloss paint is best for high-impact or wet applications.
Paint sheens on the dull end of the spectrum are less durable and tend to attract dirt.
Generally speaking, glossier paints are more durable, while flatter paints are less resilient but cover better.
The ratio of resins/binders to pigments increases with each level.
For large areas of the home covered by siding, less glossy paints are a better choice.
The choice, then, is between a flat (matte) paint or a satin/eggshell paint.
On the positive side, flat paint produces no overlap marks, whether brushed or rolled.
But the surface may become chalky due to weather, requiring more frequent repainting.
Also, flat paint may flake off or chip more easily than glossier paint.
To the touch, they still have the chalky feel of flat finishes but with a slight waxy smoothness.
Because of the hint of shine, satin paints have a somewhat more luxurious appearance than flat paints.
Sheen can be uneven unless the paint is mixed thoroughly.
Stored paint should be thoroughly re-mixed at the store before painting.
Boxing the paint (mixing several cans together) can also solve the problem of uneven sheens.
Satin paints require a bit more care during app to make it avoid lap marks.
As with interior painting, it is important to keep a wet edgeduring app.
Satin paints should be mixed just before every painting session, even within the same painting project.
All things being equal, satin or eggshell finish is preferable for the exterior of a home.
For a more skilled do-it-yourselfer, either flat or satin paint is suitable.
If they make an error, they are accountable and can be expected to fix the issue.
Condition of the Siding
Is your exterior riddled with texture-related blemishes?
If so, then flat paint will help hide such defects.
Do you have children, pets, and a lot of outdoor activities?
Bikes get laid against houses.
Mud and snowballs land on the sides of the house.
Just as you would choose a wipeable finish for the interior, so too with your exterior.
