Interior vs Exterior Paint: Understanding their unique applications

Difference Between Exterior and Interior Paint

Here are a few popular differences between exterior and interior paint:

3. Colour and Finish
 

Interior Paint: You will get interior wall paints in a wide range of colours and finishes. Therefore, people can easily create any interior decor style as per their preferences.
 

Exterior Paint: The colour and finish options available for exterior paints are limited when compared to interior wall paints. Exterior paints are formulated keeping in mind that they will face prolonged exposure to sunlight. Some colours and finishes are not appropriate for this. The goal is to preserve the colour and aesthetics under intense weather conditions.

4. Resistance to Mould and Mildew
 

Interior Paint: Although some interior paints have anti-microbial properties, they are not as extensive as exterior paint due to less exposure to moisture. They aim at preventing mildew and mould growth in areas with higher humidity, such as bathrooms and kitchens.
 

Exterior Paint: It contains stronger anti-mold and mildew elements due to greater exposure to damp conditions. This is designed to combat moisture-related issues effectively in various climates.

5. VOC Levels
 

Interior Paint: VOCs are harmful to your health. This is why interior paints always have a low VOC content.
 

Exterior Paint: Exterior paints have a higher concentration of VOCs when compared to interior paint. VOCs make it easier to spread paint and fasten the drying process. This makes the painting task easier.
 

7. Drying
 

Interior Paint: The interiors of your home do not get sufficient sunlight. This is why interior wall paints are designed to dry up quickly so that you do not face a lot of inconvenience.
 

Exterior Paint: The drying time required by exterior paint is comparatively longer. If it does not receive exposure to sunlight, the paint may take a long time to dry up.

How Interior and Exterior Painting Techniques Differ
 

Interior Painting Techniques

Interior and exterior painting techniques are different. If you are not well-informed about them, it is wise to always hire experts for interior and exterior painting jobs.

Exterior Painting Techniques
 

• Surface Preparation and Repair: Exterior surfaces demand extensive prep work to withstand outdoor elements. Power washing removes dirt, mould, and old paint. Repairing surface imperfections and applying a primer helps the paint adhere better and prevents moisture seepage.
  
  
• Paint Application Tools: Depending on the surface's texture and size of the project, painters may use different tools. Sprayers offer efficient coverage for large areas, while brushes and rollers are suitable for smaller areas and detailed work. Consistent paint thickness and proper application techniques are crucial.
  
  
• Drying Time and Weather Considerations: Exterior house paint requires favourable weather to dry quickly. Therefore, an exterior painting job should always be done when the weather is dry and mild.

Factors to Consider when Choosing Interior and Exterior Paint
 

●    Interior Paint:
 

1. Traffic and Use

In spaces prone to high activity, such as hallways, family rooms, or kids' play areas, choosing paints that are durable, washable, and resistant to smudges is beneficial. This is particularly essential for surfaces that encounter frequent contact and the paint requires maintenance to maintain its appearance and integrity for a longer duration.

4. Finish or Sheen

Different paint sheens offer various advantages. For instance, flat or matte finishes are ideal for hiding imperfections and providing a more sophisticated and non-reflective look. They work well in spaces where high traffic is not a concern. However, semi-gloss and gloss finishes are more durable, more washable, and are better suited for high-traffic areas or rooms that require frequent cleaning, like kitchens, bathrooms, or children's bedrooms.

5. Washability and Maintenance

Your kitchen, dining area, or rooms that are exposed to more potential messes might benefit from washable paints. These paints are easier to clean and less prone to staining or absorbing marks. Therefore, maintaining the walls' appearance becomes easy. Also, washable paints are the best paints for interior walls where there is high human interaction.

6. Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)

VOCs are solvents that can evaporate into the air and affect indoor air quality. These compounds pose health risks. Asian Paints low-VOC paints are completely harmless and the best paints to paint your walls.

●    Exterior Paint

1. Weather and Climate Conditions

Considering the climatic factors of your region is pivotal when selecting exterior wall paint. Extreme weather changes, high humidity, or excessive sun exposure can lead to the deterioration of the paint. A weathercoat paint should be chosen so that it is resilient to these conditions. Otherwise, it may crack or peel in a very short period of time.

5. UV Protection

Exterior house paints offering UV protection safeguard the paint film from the damaging effects of UV rays. This protection not only preserves the vibrancy of the paint but also shields the underlying surfaces from premature ageing, peeling, or cracking caused by prolonged exposure to sunlight.

6. Durability and Longevity

The best paints for exterior walls can withstand the test of time and harsh weather conditions. There are many high-quality exterior paints that can resist chalking, fading, or erosion, and ensure an appealing exterior is maintained.

7. Maintenance and Cleanability

Exterior paints that are easy to clean and maintain retain the visual appeal of the home. Stains, dust, or debris can accumulate on outdoor surfaces. Therefore, choosing paints that allow for easy cleaning helps maintain a fresh and appealing appearance.

How can Beautiful Homes Help You with Your Interior and Exterior Painting?

Transforming your home with the perfect coat of paint is an art, and Beautiful Homes is here to make it a masterpiece. Asian Paints has a vast world of interior and exterior paint colours for homes from which we will help you choose the ideal shades and finishes to suit your unique space. Whether you are seeking a vibrant hue to enliven your living room or durable exterior paint to brave the elements, our experts can navigate the options and recommend the best paint to paint your walls. Moreover, our house painting cost is very reasonable. Reach out to us for a 3D consultation call or visit our store. We are located in all major cities including Mumbai, Delhi, Amritsar, Ernakulam, Raipur, Ooty, Pune, Ahmedabad, Hyderabad, Bangalore, Kolkata, and Chennai. Our experts will also share a painting cost per square foot estimate with you.