Best Exterior Paints for Harsh Winters: Top 7 Brands Compared

Understanding the Challenges of Winter Weather on Exterior Paint

Winter weather presents a unique set of challenges for exterior paints. The constant freeze-thaw cycles can cause paint to expand and contract, leading to cracking and peeling. Moisture, in the form of snow and ice, can penetrate the paint film and cause blistering. Furthermore, sunlight, even in winter, can fade the color and degrade the paint’s protective properties. Understanding these challenges is the first step in choosing the right paint.

Key Considerations When Choosing Exterior Paint for Winter

Before diving into the top brands, let’s outline some key factors to consider:

• Durability: Look for paints that are specifically formulated for exterior use and are known for their long-lasting performance.
• Flexibility: Paints with good flexibility can withstand temperature fluctuations without cracking.
• Water Resistance: Excellent water resistance is crucial to prevent moisture damage.
• Adhesion: The paint must adhere well to the surface to prevent peeling.
• Low-Temperature Application: Some paints can be applied in colder temperatures, which can be beneficial for late-season projects.
• UV Resistance: Protects against fading and degradation from sunlight.

Paint Sheen and Its Impact on Winter Performance

The sheen of your paint also plays a role in its winter performance. Higher sheen paints (gloss or semi-gloss) are more durable and resistant to moisture, but they can also highlight imperfections. Lower sheen paints (matte or eggshell) are more forgiving of imperfections but may be less resistant to moisture. Satin is a good compromise, offering a balance of durability and aesthetics.

Best Exterior Paints for Harsh Winters: Top 7 Brands Compared

Here’s a detailed comparison of seven top brands known for their ability to withstand harsh winter conditions:

1. Benjamin Moore Aura Exterior: Known for its exceptional durability, color retention, and resistance to fading.
2. Sherwin-Williams Duration Exterior Coating: Provides excellent protection against cracking, peeling, and blistering. Its Permalast Technology ensures long-lasting performance even in extreme weather.
3. Behr Premium Plus Exterior: A budget-friendly option that still offers good durability and weather resistance.
4. Valspar Duramax Exterior: Formulated with a flexible formula to prevent cracking and peeling.
5. Kilz Exterior Siding, Fence, and Barn Paint: An Acrylic Latex Paint – Good for use on wood, brick, stucco and masonry surfaces.
6. PPG Manor Hall Timeless Exterior: Offers excellent adhesion and resistance to mildew and algae.
7. Rust-Oleum Zinsser AllCoat Exterior (Solvent-Based): Excellent adhesion even to glossy surfaces and good stain-blocking properties. Especially effective on difficult-to-adhere-to substrates.

Detailed Analysis of Top Brands

Let’s delve deeper into a few of these top contenders:

Sherwin-Williams Duration Exterior Coating: The Durability Champion

Sherwin-Williams Duration Exterior Coating consistently ranks highly for its exceptional durability. Its Permalast Technology creates a thick, durable film that resists cracking, peeling, and blistering, even in the face of extreme temperature fluctuations and moisture. It also boasts excellent color retention, ensuring your home looks beautiful for years to come. It’s a premium option, but the long-term protection it provides makes it a worthwhile investment.

Benjamin Moore Aura Exterior: Unmatched Color Retention

Benjamin Moore Aura Exterior stands out for its superior color retention. Its proprietary Color Lock Technology ensures that colors stay vibrant and resist fading, even after years of exposure to sunlight and harsh weather. The paint also offers excellent durability and water resistance, making it a top choice for homeowners who prioritize aesthetics and long-lasting performance.

Comparing Application and Dry Time

When comparing application, both Sherwin-Williams Duration and Benjamin Moore Aura are relatively easy to apply, offering good flow and leveling properties. However, Benjamin Moore Aura typically has a slightly faster dry time. Always refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for specific recommendations on application and dry times.

Considering the Cost Factor

Both Sherwin-Williams Duration and Benjamin Moore Aura are premium paints and come with a higher price tag than some other options. However, their superior performance and longevity can offset the higher initial cost in the long run. Behr Premium Plus Exterior offers a more budget-friendly alternative.

Preparing Your Home’s Exterior for Painting

Proper preparation is crucial for a successful paint job, especially when preparing for winter weather.

1. Clean the surface: Remove any dirt, debris, mildew, or loose paint.
2. Repair any damage: Fill cracks, holes, and other imperfections.
3. Prime the surface: Primer helps the paint adhere better and provides a uniform surface.
4. Choose the right weather conditions: Avoid painting in extreme temperatures or when rain is expected.

Conclusion

Choosing the best exterior paints for harsh winters: Top 7 brands compared involves carefully considering the unique challenges of your climate and your individual needs and preferences. By understanding the key factors that contribute to a paint’s durability and weather resistance, and by carefully preparing your home’s exterior, you can ensure a long-lasting and beautiful finish that protects your investment for years to come. Ultimately, the best paint for your home will depend on your budget, aesthetic preferences, and the specific challenges of your local climate. Research, compare, and choose wisely.