How to Choose the Best Paint for Exterior Wood: Top Picks for Outdoor Paint Wood

Only the right paint will do the job properly. The same goes with a wooden shed, garden fence, or outdoor furniture; the way you paint them dictates the wood’s life cycle and its aesthetics. In this Paintlab guide, we will tell what wood exterior paint options exist and how to choose the right one for exterior woodworking projects. 

Choosing the Right Paint for Exterior Woodwork

Woodwork on the exterior usually includes fences, decks, and siding. Because of the constant exposure to adverse conditions such as wind, rain, and harsh sunlight, these constructions are bound to get damaged as time goes by. 

Choosing the right paint for outside woodwork would minimize the repairs needed. Using proper quality paint will protect the wood from decay giving a lasting facade for years.

Exterior Wood High Gloss Paint

Take your outdoor wood surfaces to the next level by choosing a reflective high-gloss paint. It provides a sleek and smooth finish, fitting for your sophisticated taste. High-sheen outdoor wood paints are exceptional for their durability and moisture resistance, offering a shiny and polished finish. They are also perfect for places where dirt and grime accumulate, including window frames and doors.

Why select high gloss paint? Here are several reasons:

• High resistance to abrasion: Glossy outdoor paint wood looks more beautiful, but also has great resistance to abrasion and scratch marks. 
• Better look: Wood surfaces will not only be glossy, but will also be transformed to look sophisticated with the right choice of paint. 
• Barriers: A high gloss finish will keep your wooden surfaces dry and less prone to rotting. 

For the furniture requiring added protection from sunlight, such exterior paints for wood will be most beneficial.

Satinwood Paint for Exterior Wood

Satinwood exterior woodwork paint is one step below high gloss and one step above matte. While it does give your exterior wood a sheen, it does not polished more than lightly. Satinwood is very popular for window frames, trims, and moderate furniture pieces where you need to strike the best balance. 

Why choose it?

• Elegant finish: Smooth, sophisticated sheen that does not feel too gaudy.
• Easy to clean: Less scrubbing required compared to wiping down matte paints.
• Moisture resistant: Like gloss finishes, satinwood paints give some level of exposure protection. 

It is great for wooden fences, sheds and gates. Provides an understated satinwood finish that is durable.

Barn Paint for Exterior Wood

Sheds, barns, and stables get purposely made barn exterior wood paints as they are more practical compared to average outdoor paint. They are specially designed for outer structures like barns and stables. 

Here are the reasons to choose it:

• Paint with a rustic, non-glossy finish is ideal for older wood that is used for country style houses or farm structures. 
• Barn paints are made for tough weather paints. Thus, protecting wood from the elements is easy for barn paints. 
• Many barn paints are ideal for outdoor moist conditions as they contain mildew inhibitors, which offer long lasting protection. 

This type of paint is best suited for large wooden structures such as barns, garages, and even wooden garden furniture that is left outside.

Paint for Garden Sheds and Fences

The best paints for the fences and sheds are the ones that not only improve the appearance, but also provide the best protection from the weather. Usually, high-quality acrylic or oil paints that are tough and weather-resistant are ideal for sheds and fences as the best paints. 

Reasons for choosing paint for sheds or fences: 

• Long-lasting protection from rain, sun, and windbreaks is ensured. 
• Fading from long-term exposure is prevented. 

For those dealing with wooden outdoor furniture, durable paints that are specifically designed for outdoor wood should be used.

All You Need to Know About Paint Finishes: Gloss, Satin, and Matte

It is vital to comprehend the variety of finishes offered when selecting paint for exterior wood surfaces. Each finish has its advantages, and the right option will depend on your tastes and the demands of the assignment.

• Gloss finish: Provides an elegant, smooth surface while resisting moisture and dirt exceptionally well. 
• Satin finish: Soft sheen finish that provides adequate protection and beauty.
• Matte finish: Lacks gloss and shine, giving it a flat appearance while being less sturdy than gloss makes it the perfect finish for rustic or traditional styles.

Knowing the pros and cons of each finish can effectively astound you in picking the good exterior paint for wood.

How to Prepare Your Exterior Wood For Painting

Achieving long-lasting results requires basic preparation before painting. Here is a basic outline to get your exterior wood ready for paintwork: 

• Clean the surface: Get rid of unwanted dirt, dust, and loose paint from previous work.
• Sand the wood: Remove all the aesthetically displeasing rough edges. 
• Prime the wood: Apply outer wood primer for optimal paint adhesion and longevity.
• Apply the Paint: Paint over your surface completely and cover it in thin coats of your desired color after it's been primed.

Proper preparation increases the longevity of the paint as well as aiding in the smoother, and more professional-looking finish.

What Do Other Decorators Use?

Outdoor paints are popular among professional decorators and for good reason. Some of the brands people trust are: 

• Dulux Weathershield: Provides a massive array of color options without compromising on value, finish, or durability. 
• Farrow & Ball Exterior Eggshell: Offers great satin finish with superior durability. 
• Ronseal Ultimate Protection: Amazing protection from the weather, especially for garden furniture and fences. 

These brands are known for their exceptional exterior wood paints as they are not easily damaged and remain beautiful for long periods of time. 

Final Thoughts

Durability and aesthetic beauty are important factors when considering what paint to use for your outdoor wooden projects. From matte barn paint for that rustic look, to a high gloss finish for window frames, there are too many options to count. 

Always remember to think about the environmental factors such as: exposure to moisture, wind, and sunlight, in order to choose paint that will best preserve your outer woodwork.

FAQ

What is the top paint for exterior wood in Ireland?

In Ireland, the best paint for exterior wood is one that offers reliable protection from the weather while maintaining a long-lasting finish. Popular options include Dulux Weathershield and Ronseal Ultimate Protection. Tikkurila also offers some good options. 

What to consider when choosing paint for exterior woodworks?

Consider the paint’s desired finish (gloss, satin, or matte) as well as the specific weather conditions that the wood will be exposed to (rain, sunlight, etc.) when selecting the paint.

Can exterior wood paints protect against weather damage?

Certainly, good quality exterior wood paints protect against the rain, sun, and wind while also resisting mildew, helping protect the integrity of the wood.

How long does paint for outdoor wood last?

The brand, environmental conditions, and type of finish have an impact, but typically outdoor wood paint will last 5-10 years. 

What is the difference between exterior wood stain and paint for exterior wood?

Paint provides a protective layer for the wood, offering better weather resistance. Stain, on the other hand, penetrates the wood and gives it a more natural look.