Giving your home in mid-Missouri a fresh coat of paint is a fantastic way to boost curb appeal and protect your exterior walls. But with so many paint finishes available, selecting the right one can feel overwhelming.
What climate factors should I consider when choosing an exterior paint finish?
Mid-Missouri experiences a humid continental climate with hot, humid summers and cold, snowy winters. Here are the key climate factors to consider when choosing an exterior paint finish:
- Temperature Fluctuations: Mid-Missouri endures significant temperature swings throughout the year. Extreme heat can cause paint to crack and peel, while freezing temperatures can lead to blistering. Choose a paint formulated to withstand these fluctuations.
- Humidity: High humidity levels can promote mildew growth on exterior paint. Opt for a paint with mildew resistance to prevent unsightly stains and potential damage.
- UV Radiation: The sun's ultraviolet (UV) rays can cause paint to fade over time. Select a paint with a high UV resistance rating to maintain your home's vibrant color.
- Precipitation: Mid-Missouri receives a fair amount of rainfall throughout the year. A paint with excellent water resistance is crucial to prevent water damage to your siding.
Exterior paint finishes: properties and benefits
There are four primary exterior paint finishes, each offering unique properties and benefits:
- Flat: This low-sheen finish provides a matte look and excels at hiding imperfections on older siding. However, it's not very durable, susceptible to mildew growth, and difficult to clean.
- Eggshell: The most popular choice for exterior walls, eggshell offers a subtle sheen with good durability and cleanability. It's a versatile option that provides a balance between aesthetics and practicality.
- Satin: This medium-sheen finish provides a soft luster, is easier to clean than eggshell, and offers good durability. It's a great choice for areas that experience occasional contact, like trim or doors.
- Gloss: This high-sheen finish delivers the most shine and is highly durable and easy to clean. However, it can highlight imperfections and is best suited for limited areas like doors or shutters.
Choosing the right finish for your mid-Missouri home
Considering the climate factors and paint properties, here are some recommendations for choosing the right exterior paint finish in mid-Missouri:
- Best Overall: For most homes in mid-Missouri, an eggshell finish is an excellent choice. It offers a balance of durability, cleanability, and aesthetics, making it well-suited for withstanding temperature fluctuations, humidity, and occasional rain.
- High-Moisture Areas: If your home has areas prone to high moisture, like near the foundation or under eaves, consider a satin or even a gloss finish. These finishes provide superior moisture resistance and easier cleaning to prevent mildew growth.
- Accent Areas: For doors, shutters, or other accent areas, a satin or gloss finish can add a touch of sophistication and is easier to maintain.
Ensuring a successful paint job
Choosing the right exterior paint finish is crucial for a long-lasting and beautiful result. By considering your climate and the properties of different finishes, you can select the perfect option for your mid-Missouri home.
For expert advice on choosing the right exterior paint finish and high-quality paint products, visit Dugan's! Our knowledgeable staff can help you navigate the options and ensure you find the perfect solution for your home's needs.
Unleash your home's potential with Dugan's!
Want to transform your mid-Missouri home's exterior? Dugan's showrooms in Sedalia, Laurie, Osage Beach, and Bolivar, MO, are here to help. Our friendly and knowledgeable staff can guide you through the entire process, from selecting the perfect exterior paint finish to recommending high-quality paints and application tools.
We understand the unique challenges of the mid-Missouri climate and can ensure you choose a paint that will withstand the elements and keep your home looking its best for years to come. Contact us today
