It’s no secret that exterior paint can be expensive. If you’re looking to save a little money on your next painting project, you might be wondering if you can use interior paint for the job. After all, it’s much cheaper and easier to find than exterior paint.
You can use interior paint outside, but it is not recommended. Interior paint is not made to withstand the elements like exterior paint. Also, if you use interior paint on the outside of your house, it will start to chip and peel within a few months.
This article will cover the benefits and drawbacks of using interior paint outside and why you should not use it. To know more, read till the end.
Why You Should Not Use Interior Paint Outside?
Interior paints are formulated differently than exterior paints and will degrade more quickly. They aren’t made to withstand freeze-thaw, rain, snow, mold, and mildew, so they are more prone to flaking and cracking.
Still, if you want to use interior paint outside, it should be protected with one or two coats of exterior-grade clear coat sealer. Doing so might prolong the time and improve your paint, but sealer coating also can’t prevent fading. If you use too much exposure to the sealer, that might turns yellow over time.
Interior paint is not formulated for exterior use and will fail quickly when used outside. Exterior paint is made to withstand the elements and will last much longer than interior paint when used on an exterior surface.
In addition, if interior paints are used with sealer for outdoor that will require more labor and result in a less expensive finish. Also, you will be unable to claim the interior paint’s warranty.
How Long Can Interior Paint last Outside?
Interior paint can last quite a while when applied to an exterior surface. However, several factors will affect how long your paint job will last. Here are the facts:
Sealer Coat
Sealer coat is essential if you apply interior paint outside. Creating a barrier against the elements will help the paint last one and a half years to two years.
Paints Quality
Higher-quality paints will usually last a little longer than lower-quality paints. Using good quality interior paints with a sealer coat might last for two years, and without a sealer coat, that can survive One or less than one year. Also, smooth surfaces usually allow the paint to last longer than rough surfaces.
Weather Condition
The last factor is the weather conditions in your area. If you live in an area with high humidity, your paint job may not last as long as it would in a drier climate.
Additionally, how well you prepare the surface before painting and how carefully you apply the paint will also affect its longevity.
Considering all these factors, you can expect that your interior painting that is applied outside can last anywhere from 1-2 years. Of course, if you want your paint job to last even longer, consider using higher-quality exterior paints and taking extra care when applying them.
The Benefits Of Using Interior Paint Outside
Interior paint is not just for indoor use; it won’t last long if you use them outside. Here are the benefits and drawbacks of using them:
Save Money
Interior paints are typically cheaper than exterior paints, making them a budget-friendly option for painting projects outside your home. However, when selecting paint for an outer surface, check the product label for durability and weather resistance to ensure your paint job will last.
Is Less Toxic
Paints used in the Interior are generally less toxic than exterior paint, making it a safer choice for areas where children and pets play. However, all paints contain some level of toxins, so it’s essential to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the proper use and ventilation to minimize exposure.
Easy To Remove Stains
Interior paint is generally easier to clean than exterior paint. So any accidental stain can be removed easily. It is a hassle-free option. Exterior paint does not so stain removal friendly, but you can paint over them.
The Drawbacks of Using Interior Paint Outside
It’s no secret that a lot of people use interior paint for their exterior walls. After all, it’s cheaper, and it’s easy to find. However, there are some drawbacks to using interior paint outside. Here are a few things to consider before using interior paint on your exterior walls:
1. It is not made to withstand the elements.
Interior paint is designed to be used inside your home, where it’s protected from the sun, rain, and other weather conditions. Unfortunately, when you use it on your exterior walls, it won’t be able to withstand the elements as well. Over time, the sun and rain will damage the paint, causing it to peel and fade.
2. It Doesn’t have the same color retention as exterior paint.
Exterior paint is specially formulated to retain its color in spite of the sun and other weather conditions. Interior paint, on the other hand, is not. So, the color will likely fade over time if you use interior paint on your exterior walls.
3. Unable to protect against mold and mildew.
Mold and mildew can be a problem for any type of paint, but it’s mainly an issue for interior paint. That’s because it’s not designed to withstand the same moisture level as exterior paint. As a result, if you use interior paint on your exterior walls, it’s more likely that mold and mildew will grow on the paint.
4. Interior paint is more likely to trap moisture.
One of the biggest problems with using interior paint on exterior walls is that it can trap moisture. This is because interior paint is not as breathable as exterior paint. So, if your walls are exposed to moisture, the interior paint will trap them, which can lead to mold and mildew growth.
5. Interior paint is more likely to crack and flake.
Another problem with using interior paint on exterior walls is that it’s more likely to crack and flake. This is because the paint is not as flexible as exterior paint. So, if your walls are exposed to temperature changes, the paint will likely crack and flake.
Overall, there are several drawbacks to using interior paint on your exterior walls. While it may be cheaper and easier to find, it’s not the best option for your home. If you want your paint job to last, you’re better off using exterior paint.
How To Paint Outside Of Your House?
Conclusion
In conclusion, you can use interior paint outside, but that is not an ideal option. The main difference between exterior and interior paint is that exterior paint is designed to withstand the elements, while interior paint is not. That means using exterior paint on your walls will be more durable and last longer.
However, it also means that the color won’t be as rich or vibrant as it would be with interior paint. However, it also means that the color won’t be as rich or vibrant as it would be with interior paint. If you don’t want to spend frequently on repainting your home exterior, using quality exterior paint is a must.