New Latex-Based
Gloss Paints Outperform Oil on Exteriors
If
you're in the market for an exterior gloss paint that will last
for years, experts recommend that you consider a top quality
latex gloss paint that is made especially for use outdoors,
rather than an oil-based or alkyd product. According
to the Paint Quality Institute, the performance of latex gloss
paints -- which was always good -- has been significantly
improved in recent years through advances in latex technology.
They now offer some significant advantages.
For
example, right after application, oil-based paints may look
slightly glossier, but latex gloss paints stand the test of
time, retaining their gloss much longer. In addition, latex
gloss paints resist fading and maintain color better than
oil paints.
When
it comes to good looks, top quality latex gloss paints offer
other benefits when compared to their oil-based counterparts,
including better resistance to mildew, dirt collection, and
cracking.
The
organic binders used in oil-based and alkyd paints actually
provide nutrients for mildew. Latex paints have a much more
inert binder, which is unappealing to mildew.
And,
because they remain more flexible than oil-based paints over
time, top quality latex gloss paints have better resistance
to cracking. You'll also appreciate some of the recent improvements
in the workability of top quality latex gloss paints. They
go on easily, forming a thick paint film, and "level" well
to form a smooth, uniform surface on which brush or roller
marks are barely noticeable.
Another
area of improvement: The latest top quality acrylic latex
gloss paints have a longer "wet-edge time" than do older counterparts.
This tendency to dry a little slower makes it easier to smoothly
blend one section of paint into another, which is especially
important when painting walls and other large surfaces, or
complex surfaces such as paneled doors.
To
get the full benefit of these improvements in exterior gloss
paints, the Paint Quality Institute recommends the use of
only top quality latex gloss paints. They'll cost a little
more than ordinary paints but, according to the experts, they
offer the best value for your paint dollar.
For
more advice on paints and painting, visit www.paintquality.com
.
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