Exterior paint at Lowe’s offers a wide array of choices for homeowners tackling their next painting project. From selecting the right type of paint – acrylic, latex, or oil-based – to choosing the perfect color scheme and mastering application techniques, Lowe’s provides a comprehensive resource for both DIY enthusiasts and seasoned professionals. This guide navigates the selection process, offering insights into paint types, color trends, surface preparation, application methods, and maintenance tips, ensuring a successful and long-lasting exterior paint job.
This in-depth exploration covers everything from understanding the differences between various paint brands and their price points to navigating the latest color trends and preparing surfaces for optimal paint adhesion. We’ll also delve into the practical aspects of application, providing expert advice on tools and techniques to achieve a flawless finish. Finally, we’ll address long-term maintenance and offer solutions for common problems, ensuring your exterior paint job remains vibrant and protected for years to come.
Lowe’s Exterior Paint Selection
Lowe’s offers a wide variety of exterior paints to suit diverse needs and budgets. Understanding the differences between paint types and brands is crucial for a successful project. This section details Lowe’s exterior paint selection, comparing key features and providing pricing guidance.
Types of Exterior Paint at Lowe’s
Lowe’s stocks several exterior paint types, each with unique properties. Acrylic latex paints are popular for their durability, ease of application, and water-based, low-VOC formulation. Oil-based paints offer superior durability and water resistance but require solvents for cleanup and have stronger odors. Alkyd paints combine some of the benefits of both, offering good durability and relatively easy cleanup.
Comparison of Exterior Paint Brands at Lowe’s
Valspar, Behr, and Benjamin Moore are three prominent brands available at Lowe’s, each catering to different price points and performance expectations. Valspar offers a good balance of quality and affordability. Behr provides a wider range of colors and finishes, while Benjamin Moore is known for its premium quality and long-lasting results, though at a higher price point.
Exterior Paint Price, Coverage, and Durability Comparison
| Brand | Price (per gallon) | Approximate Coverage (sq ft/gallon) | Durability (Years) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Valspar Duramax | $30-$40 | 300-350 | 5-7 |
| Behr Premium Plus Ultra | $40-$50 | 350-400 | 7-10 |
| Benjamin Moore Aura Exterior | $60-$80 | 400-450 | 10-15 |
Note: Prices and coverage may vary depending on the specific product and retailer.
Paint Color Selection and Trends
Choosing the right exterior paint color significantly impacts a home’s curb appeal. Current trends and factors influencing color selection are discussed below, along with visual examples.
Current Exterior Paint Color Trends
Current trends lean towards earthy tones, muted greens, and warm grays. Bold accent colors are used sparingly, often on trim or doors, to complement the main color. However, classic colors like white and navy blue remain consistently popular.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Exterior Paint Colors
House style, climate, and the surrounding environment are key considerations. A Victorian home might suit darker, richer colors, while a contemporary home might benefit from lighter, more neutral shades. Climate influences fade resistance; lighter colors reflect sunlight in hot climates. The surrounding environment, such as landscaping and neighboring houses, should also be considered for harmonious aesthetics.
Exterior Paint Color Schemes, Exterior paint at lowe’s
Scheme 1: Classic Elegance
-A warm, creamy white for the main body, complemented by deep charcoal gray trim and a vibrant red front door. This creates a timeless and sophisticated look.
Scheme 2: Modern Minimalism
– A light gray main body with crisp white trim and a charcoal gray roof. This scheme provides a clean, contemporary aesthetic that complements modern architectural styles.
Scheme 3: Rustic Charm
– A muted sage green for the main body, complemented by warm brown trim and a deep terracotta accent on the porch. This evokes a sense of warmth and tranquility, suitable for homes in natural settings.
Preparing Surfaces for Painting
Proper surface preparation is crucial for achieving a long-lasting and attractive finish. This section Artikels the necessary steps and addresses common issues.
Steps Involved in Preparing Exterior Surfaces for Painting
Thorough cleaning is the first step, removing dirt, mildew, and loose paint. Scraping removes peeling or flaking paint. Priming provides a uniform surface for the new paint to adhere to, improving coverage and longevity. Caulking any gaps or cracks prevents moisture intrusion.
Common Problems During Surface Preparation and Solutions
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Mildew can be removed with a bleach solution. Extensive damage may require wood repair or replacement. Uneven surfaces need sanding or filling before priming. Properly addressing these issues ensures a smooth, even paint application.
Preparing Different Exterior Surfaces
- Wood: Clean, scrape, sand, prime, and caulk.
- Brick: Clean with a pressure washer, repair any cracks, and prime.
- Siding (Vinyl, Aluminum): Clean with soap and water, repair any damage, and prime if necessary.
Application Techniques and Tools
Achieving a professional-looking finish requires proper application techniques and the right tools. This section explores best practices and tool comparisons.
Best Practices for Applying Exterior Paint
For large surfaces, rollers provide efficient coverage. Brushes are ideal for trim, corners, and detailed work. Sprayers offer fast coverage but require careful preparation and cleanup. Multiple thin coats are generally preferred over one thick coat to prevent drips and ensure even coverage. Always follow the paint manufacturer’s instructions for drying times between coats.
Comparison of Painting Tools
Brushes offer precision but are slower. Rollers are faster but may leave streaks if not used properly. Sprayers provide even coverage but require more setup and cleanup, and can be messy if not used correctly. The choice depends on the surface area, desired finish, and personal preference.
Achieving a Smooth, Even Finish
Proper surface preparation is paramount. Use high-quality brushes and rollers. Apply thin, even coats, allowing sufficient drying time between coats. Avoid overworking the paint, which can lead to streaks or uneven texture. Use appropriate back-rolling techniques to ensure even coverage and prevent lap marks.
Maintaining and Protecting Exterior Paint
Proper maintenance extends the life of exterior paint and maintains the home’s aesthetic appeal. This section discusses maintenance practices and common paint problems.
Cleaning and Maintaining Freshly Painted Surfaces
Avoid washing for at least a few weeks to allow the paint to cure properly. Regularly clean the surface with a gentle detergent and water solution to remove dirt and debris. Power washing should be done carefully to avoid damaging the paint.
Factors Affecting the Longevity of Exterior Paint
Weather conditions, especially intense sun exposure, contribute to fading and cracking. Moisture intrusion, caused by poor caulking or damaged surfaces, can lead to peeling and blistering. Regular maintenance helps mitigate these issues.
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Identifying and Addressing Common Exterior Paint Problems
Peeling paint usually indicates poor surface preparation or moisture problems. Cracking suggests the paint is failing due to age, weathering, or improper application. Fading is a natural process accelerated by sun exposure. Addressing these problems often requires repainting or more extensive repairs.
Lowe’s Resources and Services
Lowe’s provides various resources and services to support customers’ exterior painting projects. This section details these offerings and helpful tips.
Resources Available at Lowe’s
Lowe’s offers paint consultations to help customers choose the right paint and colors for their projects. Color matching services allow customers to match existing paint colors. Extensive online resources and in-store displays provide information on paint types, application techniques, and color trends.
Services Offered by Lowe’s
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Lowe’s offers paint mixing services to create custom colors. Delivery services are available for large paint orders. Some Lowe’s locations may offer additional services, such as paint application or professional consultation, but availability varies by location.
Helpful Tips for Successful Exterior Painting Projects
- Choose the right paint for your surface and climate.
- Properly prepare the surface before painting.
- Apply thin, even coats.
- Allow sufficient drying time between coats.
- Clean your brushes and rollers immediately after use.
- Protect surrounding areas from paint splatters.
- Follow the paint manufacturer’s instructions carefully.
Conclusion: Exterior Paint At Lowe’s
Ultimately, a successful exterior paint project at Lowe’s hinges on careful planning and execution. By understanding the nuances of paint selection, surface preparation, application techniques, and maintenance strategies, homeowners can transform their home’s exterior, enhancing curb appeal and protecting their investment. Lowe’s resources, including expert consultations and convenient services, further streamline the process, making the task less daunting and more rewarding.
Remember to consider factors such as climate, house style, and personal preference when making your selections. With the right approach and the right tools, a stunning and long-lasting exterior makeover is within reach.
