Categories Exterior Painting

The Idaho HOA Law Guide

Idaho HOA Laws

Whether you plan to paint your house white or lime green, if you live in a homeowner’s association (HOA), your options may be limited. Navigating the realm of Idaho HOA laws can be complicated. First, Idaho HOA laws, which are found in Chapter 32 Section 55 of the Idaho Code, regulate what an HOA can and cannot do. Then, within each HOA, there are specific rules for those living in the community. These will vary from HOA to HOA. In order to understand the specific rules and regulations of your HOA, you’ll need to review the HOA’s governing documents. 

So what are the Idaho HOA laws? What powers do Idaho HOAs have? Can you paint your house how you want if you live in an HOA? Read along, and we’ll answer all these questions and more. 

Can HOAs Impose Fines?

Yes, according to Idaho HOA laws, HOAs can impose fines on homeowners who violate the community’s rules and regulations. Some of these rules may be related to home maintenance and appearance, such as painting. For example, if your home needs to be repainted, the HOA can fine you if you fail to repaint the exterior within a certain timeframe. These fines are usually outlined in the CC&R (Covenants, Conditions, and Restrictions) and will vary in amount. 

Idaho HOA Powers

HOAs are granted specific powers through the governing documents or CC&R. Signing these documents is like signing a legally binding contract. Some Idaho HOA powers may include: 

  • Collecting fees and assessments from homeowners to maintain common areas and enforce rules. 
  • Enforcing rules and regulations through fines, warnings, and other means. 
  • Establishing architectural and design standards.
  • Mediating disputes between homeowners. 
  • Hiring vendors and contractors for community maintenance and improvement projects. 

The extent of these powers varies from one HOA to another, so it’s important for you to review the CC&R or other governing documents to understand the specific powers your HOA has.  

What an HOA Can Do

HOAs have the authority to establish and enforce rules and regulations that govern the appearance and maintenance of properties within the community. However, there are limitations, which are usually defined by state laws. Some common things HOAs can regulate include:

  • Exterior paint colors and finishes.
  • Maintenance and repair of exterior surfaces, such as fences, roofs, or sheds.
  • Landscaping and yard maintenance.
  • Architectural modifications and additions.

What an HOA Can’t Do

While HOAs can enforce rules about exterior colors and yard maintenance, they do not have unlimited power. Some of the things HOAs cannot do include:

  • Discriminate based on protected characteristics.
  • Enforce rules that contradict the law. 
  • Impose overly restrictive rules. 
  • Interfere with constitutional rights, such as freedom of speech or religion.
  • Prohibit solar panels, political signs, American flags, satellite dishes, and antennas, or rentals.  

Can HOAs Make You Paint?

Yes, an HOA can require you to maintain your home, which includes repainting when necessary. Depending on your HOA, this might include specific color palettes or requirements for paint quality. Homeowners that do not comply can be fined by the HOA. 

Can You Paint How YOU Want?

The exact rules regarding paint color and finishes usually vary from one HOA to another. Some HOAs may be more lenient, allowing you a degree of flexibility in choosing paint colors. Others have stricter requirements. Make sure you review your HOA’s guidelines and seek approval before making any significant changes to your home’s exterior. 

The Best Exterior House Paints

How to Get HOA Approval for Your Exterior Painting Job

Depending on the HOA you live in, you may need to get approval before starting an exterior paint job. Whether you’re doing it yourself or hiring contractors, such as the professionals at Boise Home Painting, you’ll need to be well-versed in the rules and regulations of your HOA. 

  1. Review the CC&R and relevant exterior guidelines. 
  2. Contact the HOA’s management company. They’ll provide you with the necessary forms to fill out. 
  3. Select paint colors that comply with the HOA’s style guide. 
  4. Some HOAs may require you to pay a fee when applying for approval. 
  5. Once you get approved, you can begin work. Make sure to follow the guidelines and specifications. This might include completing the job within a certain timeline or using specific brands. 
  6. After completing the project, notify the HOA. They may request pictures or proof of the finished job. 

Can They Take Your House?

In certain circumstances, an HOA can foreclose on your house due to unpaid dues or fees. This is usually a last resort. If you become delinquent on paying the HOA dues or assessments, the HOA can place a lien on your property. This means that HOA has a legal claim to the property’s value equivalent to the unpaid dues. If the dues are unpaid for an extended period, the HOA may initiate foreclosure proceedings to recover the amount owed. This is a last resort, and the process is subject to state and local laws. 

It’s important to note that, as the homeowner, you’re entitled to due process and legal protections should your HOA initiate foreclosure proceedings. Typically, they must notify you of the delinquency, give you opportunities to cure the default, and the abilitiy to challenge the foreclosure in court if necessary.  

Can They Enter Your Home?

In most circumstances, HOAs do not have the authority to enter your home without permission. However, there are specific circumstances where they might enter your home legally: 

  • Maintenance: In some cases, an HOA may need to access your property to perform maintenance or repairs on common elements or shared infrastructure. They will typically notify you in advance and obtain consent. 
  • Emergencies: In emergencies that pose a risk to the safety or well-being of the community, such as a fire or water leak originating from your unit, the HOA may enter your home without your consent to prevent further damage. 
  • Rule enforcement: If an HOA believes you are violating the community’s rules or covenants within your home, they may request access to inspect the property. For example, if the HOA has a rule against pets, they might enter if they think you have a dog. However, they generally need your consent or a court-issued warrant to enter your home without your permission.

How You Can Push Back Against Your HOA

If you feel that your HOA’s rules and regulations are too restrictive, you may be wondering what you can do to push back against your HOA. There are a few different approaches you can take to address your concerns. Here are some strategies to consider:

  • If you believe your HOA’s fees are unfair, there are a couple of different places you can submit complaints, such as the Idaho Attorney General’s office, the Federal Trade Commission, or the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau.
  • If you believe you’ve been discriminated against by your HOA, you can file a complaint with the Idaho Human Rights Commission or the U.S. Department of Urban Housing. You can also file a lawsuit against the HOA, as long as it’s within one year of the offense. 
  • If you’re looking to push back in other ways, you might consider getting involved with your HOA. Attend regular HOA meetings to stay informed and voice your concerns. Participate in HOA elections to elect board members who share your concerns. Many HOAs also have committees that focus on different areas. Joining a committee will allow you to influence specific issues. 
  • Sometimes, the only option is to seek legal counsel. If your efforts are unsuccessful, or if you believe your rights have been violated, consult with an attorney who specializes in Idaho HOA laws. 

How to Join an HOA

Joining an HOA typically occurs when you buy a home within a community that is governed by the HOA. There are two types of HOAs: mandatory and voluntary. If the HOA is mandatory, you have to join the HOA when you purchase the home. If the HOA is voluntary, you can join and leave the HOA at will. 

Before joining the HOA, you’ll need to review the CC&R or other governing documents. These can be lengthy, but it’s important to understand the community’s rules and regulations before you sign. Upon purchase of the home, you may have to pay a transfer fee to transfer the membership from the previous homeowner to you. You’ll be required to pay dues, either annually or monthly, depending on the community. 

How to Leave an HOA

Idaho doesn’t have any specific laws about leaving an HOA, so you’ll need to refer to the CC&R of your HOA to understand the steps to take. If you’re in a mandatory HOA, you won’t be able to leave. Stopping payments of your dues and assessments can put you at risk for a lien or other legal action. If you’re in a voluntary HOA, you may be able to leave the HOA simply by stopping your payments. Some HOAs have an exit interview or other procedures required before you can leave. 

Exterior Painting with Boise Home Painting

Whether you’re looking to change the appearance of your home or comply with an HOA mandate to repaint, let the pros and Boise Home Painting transform your exterior. We’re well-versed in working within HOA guidelines. We’ll help you follow the style guide as well as complete the project in a timely manner. We do all the prep and cleanup for a paint job that will last. Get a free quote from our painters today to see how we can refresh your exterior. If you live in the Boise area and you’d like to have the exterior or interior of your home, we can help. We can help you find the right color to be compliant with your HOA. Get your free quote below. We serve the entire area including Meridian, Nampa, and Eagle. 

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Exterior Paint Sheen Guide

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Categories Exterior Painting

What Is the Best Exterior Paint for Houses?

The Best Exterior House Paint

One of the simplest things you can do to up the curb appeal of your house is to paint the exterior. If you’re spending the time and money to paint your house, you want to find the best exterior paint for the job. A carefully chosen paint will freshen up your home as well as protect it against damage from the elements. But what is the best exterior paint for houses? 

If you live in the Boise area and you need someone to paint your home’s exterior, we can help! We’re based in Boise and serve the entire Treasure Valley including Meridian, Nampa, Caldwell, and Kuna. Click the button below to get a free estimate and $500 off!

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Exterior Paint Sheen Guide

What Is the Best Exterior Paint?

There are a lot of exterior paints on the market. So how do you know which one is the best exterior paint for your house? The answer will depend on a number of factors. Here are some things to consider when determining the best exterior paint: 

  1. Identify your needs: Are you painting wood siding, stucco, brick, or some other type of surface? What kind of climate do you live in?
  2. Quality paint: Choosing high-quality paint from a reputable brand may cost more than a cheap brand, but the investment is worth it. Don’t compromise quality to save a few bucks. Low-quality paints can lead to premature peeling, fading, and other issues. 
  3. Paint type: It’s important to choose the appropriate type of paint for your surface. Acrylic latex, oil-based, and water-based paints are some common options. Typically, oil-based paints should be used over oil-based paints, and water-based over water-based paints. However, certain primers can help you transition from one type to another. 
  4. Color selection: The color you choose can affect how long the paint job looks fresh. Darker paints fade faster than lighter colors.
  5. Consult with the pros: Whether you’re DIY’ing the exterior or hiring a pro, it’s always a good idea to talk to someone who knows paint, such as the pros at Boise Home Painting. 

The Best Exterior Paint for Houses

With these tips in mind, here are what we consider to be some of the best exterior paint for houses: 

  • Duration Exterior Acrylic Latex by Sherwin-Williams: Sherwin-Williams is known for its high-quality paints, and Duration certainly fits the bill. Duration is self-priming and requires only one coat of paint over painted surfaces, or two over bare wood. Plus, Duration is resistant to cracking, peeling, and blistering. 
  • Ben Soft Gloss Finish by Benjamin Moore: This acrylic latex-based exterior paint works well for a wide variety of surfaces. With excellent coverage and resistance to mold and mildew, this paint is ready to the elements in two hours or less. 
  • Zinsser Perma-White Exterior Paint by Rust-Oleum: This high-performance exterior paint is self-priming and resistant to mold and moisture. It offers great coverage while also blocking stains from bleeding through. Zinsser Perma-White is very resistant to fading and is tintable in a number of colors. 
  • Emerald Exterior Acrylic Latex Paint by Sherwin Willaims: Emerald Exterior Acrylic Latex Paint prevents blistering and peeling and is resistant to mold and mildew. Emerald Exterior is both a primer and paint in one, ensuring that you can get the coverage you need in fewer coats.  
  • Duramax Flat Masonry Stucco and Masonry Paint by Valspar: This extremely durable paint dries with a flat finish that hides imperfections in stucco and masonry. Duramax also fills in hairline cracks to help prevent further damage from water. It’s an especially great option for areas subject to extreme weather. 
  • Kilz Porch and Patio Latex Floor Paint: Porches, decks, and patios are high-traffic areas that see a lot of wear and tear. Kilz Porch and Patio Latex Floor paint is extremely durable, and resistant to scuffs and dents so that your floors stay looking fresh for longer. 
  • Aura Exterior Paint by Benjamin Moore: Benjamin Moore has a number of high-quality exterior paints. Aura is their best line of exterior paints and comes with color-lock technology to keep paint looking fresh for longer. Plus, it can be applied in temperatures as low as 40 degrees, which is at least 10 degrees less than many other exterior paints.    

How Long Between Coats Of Paint?  

What Is the Longest Lasting Exterior Paint?

When it comes to enduring extreme weather conditions, acrylic paint is hands down the longest-lasting exterior paint. Acrylic paint is exceptionally durable, making it a top choice for a long-lasting exterior finish. 

Acrylic paints are formulated with a unique blend of water, pigment, and acrylic polymer emulsion. Acrylic is incredibly flexible, which allows it to expand and contract with temperature changes without cracking or peeling. Acrylic also forms a strong bond with various surfaces, providing a secure and long-lasting grip. 

Additionally, the acrylic polymer offers an excellent shield against UV rays, preventing color from fading even after years in direct sunlight. Acrylic paints are also resistant to mold and mildew and have a low water absorption rate so that it doesn’t trap moisture. Finally, the smooth surface created by acrylic paint makes it easy to clean so you can keep your exterior looking fresh for years.  

Exterior Paint that Lasts 20 Years

When you’re looking for the best exterior paint, you may be hoping to find a paint that lasts 20-plus years. Under optimal conditions, some high-quality paints could last up to 20 years. Aluminum and vinyl siding can retain paint for up to 20 years, while wood and brick tend to degrade faster. On average, however, acrylic paint lasts between 5-10 years, with latex and oil lasting less than that.

White Exterior Paints

White exterior paint is both classic and sophisticated while also resistant to fading. With its ability to reflect natural light, a white exterior can also contribute to a bright and inviting atmosphere, especially in areas with limited sunlight. 

But there is a huge selection of white paints to choose from, some with cool blue undertones, others with warm, yellow undertones. So how do you find the right white exterior paint? To help make your decision, here are some of the most popular white exterior paint shades for you home: 

  • Snowbound by Sherwin Williams: This white has slight gray undertones and pairs well with other gray-toned shades. Snowbound looks beautiful for the whole exterior or as a trim. 
  • White Duck by Sherwin Williams: Another Sherwin Williams color, White Duck is a warm, creamy color that is a favorite for exteriors.
  • Dover White by Sherwin Williams: Another super popular white for your home exterior is Dover White. This shade is creamy and bright and extremely forgiving of imperfections. 
  • White Dove by Benjamin Moore: One of Benjamin Moore’s best-selling colors, White Dove is a soft and creamy white with slightly yellow undertones. 
  • Oyster White by Sherwin Williams: Oyster White is a soft white with slight green-beige undertones to it. It pops especially well in contrast with wood or black details. 
  • Chantilly Lace by Benjamin Moore: For a crisp, classic white, Chantilly Lace is a beautiful choice that is both simple and versatile.  

Best Exterior Paint for Wood

When painting a wood exterior, it’s crucial to choose the right type of paint. While some experts say that oil-based paint is best for wood, others say that water-based acrylic paint works better. So how do you pick the best exterior paint for wood? 

Well, if your wood is already painted, that’s easy enough to answer. As long as the previous paint was working well, use the same type: water-based over water-based or oil-based over oil-based. 

If your wood is unpainted, it’s likely better to opt for an acyclic latex paint. Acrylic paints offer excellent adhesion and expand and contract with temperature changes, which helps prevent cracking and peeling. They’re also great at protecting wood from damage by moisture, rain, and humidity. 

Here are some of the best exterior paints for wood: 

Best Exterior Paints in Boise

Climate plays a big role in how long your exterior paint lasts, so let’s talk about the best exterior paints for Boise homes. Boise has a semi-arid climate with distinct seasons. The Treasure Valley is often called the “Banana Belt” of Southern Idaho. That’s because it sees milder weather than surrounding areas. Eastern Idaho, for example, experiences more snowfall and colder winters than the Boise area. Still, Boise does have four seasons, with summer highs reaching well above 90 degrees F and winters dropping to  20 degrees F or lower. These fluctuations can cause the expansion and contraction of building materials. A high-quality paint with good flexibility and adhesion, such as acrylic latex paint, will better withstand these temperature changes. 

Another major factor to consider in the best exterior paints in Boise is UV exposure. Boise sees an average of 120 sunny days and 90 partially sunny days, for a total of 210 days of sunshine. This intense UV exposure can cause exterior paints to fade or break down over time. Paints with light colors and UV-resistant properties will better maintain their color and protective qualities. 

If you’re looking to revamp the exterior of your Boise or Treasure Valley home, call Boise Home Painting today. Our experienced painting contractors offer high-quality painting with the best exterior paint to transform your home. 

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How To Paint A Porch

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Categories Exterior Painting

How to Paint a Porch: The Step by Step Guide 

How To Paint A Porch

Most people don’t know the proper way to paint a porch. After all, it isn’t a space you commonly paint such as your bathroom or living room. It can often seem like a very tedious task, but knowing what steps to follow, along with the best paint for your job, can make for a simple project with results you can be proud of. 

If you live in the Boise area and need help with your exterior home painting or porch painting, we’ll give you a free quote! We serve the entire Boise area including Meridian and Eagle.

How to Paint a Porch 

When gearing up to paint your porch, there are some simple steps to follow to get started: 

  1. Remove Everything From Your Porch 

Your very first step should be to remove everything from your porch. This would include any furniture as well as decorations on your floor. Be sure to cover any items you don’t want to be painted but can’t remove, with a drop cloth for paint protection. 

  1. Thoroughly Clean the Area 

Once everything is removed, you’ll want to give your porch a good cleaning. Start by sweeping away any cobwebs or debris. You’ll need a smooth, clean surface before painting for the best results. Next, hose down the area, allowing plenty of time to dry before applying any paint. 

If you have a wooden porch, you’ll want to sweep away all dirt, paying special attention to cleaning between the cracks and crevices of the planks. 

  1. Apply Primer 

Once your porch is clean, it’s a good idea to prime before you start painting. If you’re working with a wood surface, apply two coats of primer with a roller. Allow at least 8 hours to dry. 

For concrete porches, apply only one coat of primer with a roller on an extension pole and also let dry for at least 8 hours. 

  1. Pick a Paint Color

Once you decide which color to go with, be sure to choose an exterior, porch-specific paint that is designed to withstand the wear and tear of foot traffic and can handle the outdoor elements. 

How to Paint a Wooden Porch 

If your porch has a wooden surface, clean and spray it down completely then give it at least 24 hours to dry. Once you’re certain the surface is dry, use a sander to help remove any existing paint. Remember to wear protective eyewear and a mask during sanding. After you’ve finished sanding, sweep away any residual dust from the surface. 

Next comes taping. Use high-quality painters tape to ensure your new paint doesn’t get onto the siding or trim of your home. Now that you have all your edges taped off, it’s time to apply an exterior primer. Pay attention to any debris the wind may blow into your fresh primers so it doesn’t stick to the primer as it dries. Depending on the outside temperature, you’ll need to let your primer dry from 2-8 hours before moving on. 

Now you can apply your paint of choice. Allow around 8 hours to dry before applying a second coat. 

How to Paint a Concrete Porch 

For a concrete porch you’ll still start with cleaning but you’ll want to use concrete chemicals for the best results. Safety needs to be a big concern during this part of the process so wear gloves and a mask for protection. After you’ve thoroughly scrubbed the concrete down with a scrub brush, spray with a hose or pressure washer and let it completely dry. This generally takes around 24 hours but will obviously dry faster on warmer days. 

Tape off any areas you don’t want paint to touch then start applying a concrete primer. After your primer has had a chance to dry, apply your paint of choice. Make sure you go with a concrete exterior paint. Exterior paints are designed to withstand harsh weather conditions and general activity. When finished, allow at least 24 hours for your paint to dry. 

Best Paint for Porches 

When painting a porch floor, you’ll want to choose a porch or deck paint that is designed for your specific porch surface. Concrete porches do well with low-luster acrylic latex paints. This paint is excellent at preventing scuffing, bubbling, cracking, and fading, and hides all those little imperfections. It’s also durable and stain resistant. For a wooden porch, we recommend Premium Advanced Deckover by Behr. It comes in dozens of colors and makes your wood splinter-proof. It may cost a little more but the fact that it’s mildew-resistant and long-lasting makes it well worth your money. Also, be sure to choose an exterior paint specifically made for horizontal surfaces rather than vertical ones for walls and trim. 

Cost to Paint a Porch 

Obviously, the size of your porch and the quality of paint you choose will play a large part in figuring out how much painting your porch will cost. On average, you can expect to pay around $2-$5 per square foot. Porches are usually around 150 square feet in size with a typical cost running around $525. Take the time to accurately measure your porch before purchasing paint so you’ll have a good idea of what you’ll be spending. 

Paint Ideas for Porches 

Because your porch is one of the first things people see when they pull up to your home, it can have a profound overall impact on its appearance. With that said, if your porch is looking run-down and dingy, it puts a negative spin on your curb appeal. And while your front porch can give a powerful first impression, don’t forget about your back porch. A back porch is an extension of your home as well as a place to create memories with friends and family. 

We’ve compiled a few of our favorite porch painting ideas that can add personality and style to the entryway of your home:

  • Go with a Contrasting Paint Color 

Painting your porch a contrasting color from the rest of your home is an excellent way to highlight this unique feature. The color you choose for your porch doesn’t need to match that of your house but needs to be a nice compliment. 

  • Have fun with Patterns 

A bold or playful pattern can be an attention-grabbing asset to any porch. From your classic checkerboard diamonds to stripes or stamped concrete, a pattern can dress up your porch with a fun and inviting element of style. Black and white will always be a popular duo. However, neutral or earthy tones of blue, gray, tan, and brown will always pair well with rock pillars or dark wood doors. 

  • Look to your Landscaping 

Don’t forget that your landscaping is a natural way to compliment your porch. You can draw in the bold floral colors of blossoms to enhance your porch’s beauty or keep a crisp and clean look while contrasting your white porch against crisp green foliage. 

How to Paint a Porch Conclusion 

Painting your porch isn’t a complicated process. Follow the steps focused on above and you’ll be thrilled with the results of your labors. However, if you prefer to leave your porch painting to the professionals, contact Boise Home Painting. Our skilled team of painters has years of experience throughout the entire Treasure Valley. We pay attention to the details and only use the best quality products to ensure our customers are more than satisfied with the finished product. 

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Can You Paint Pressure Treated Wood?

Can you paint pressure treated wood?

Pressure treated wood is used for numerous outdoor projects. Because it’s been treated with chemicals, people often wonder, “Can you paint pressure treated wood?” While you most certainly can paint pressure treated wood, it’s important to be sure it’s had proper time to dry as well as knowing which kind of paint will adhere best. Continue reading to learn the ins and outs of painting pressure treated wood so your next outdoor project will be a success. 

What is Pressure Treated Wood? 

Pressure treated wood is simply wood that’s been treated with chemicals to protect it from moisture and insects. The chemicals it’s treated with don’t necessarily make the wood stronger but prevent it from prematurely rotting. Wood structures that will be constantly exposed to moisture or the elements are often built with pressure treated wood. Fences, playgrounds, decks, railings and playground equipment are typically constructed with pressure treated wood to hold up better over time. 

When to Paint Pressure Treated Wood 

The most important thing to consider when painting pressure treated wood is drying time. It may take up to 3-4 months for it to completely dry out enough to paint. One easy way to test if pressure treated wood is ready to paint is to drop some water on its surface. If the water droplets bead up, you’ll know the treated wood is still too damp. Once the droplets are absorbed into the wood instead of being repelled, it’s ready to be painted.

When Not to Paint Pressure Treated Wood 

Be very aware that if you attempt painting pressure treated wood before it’s fully cured, it can leave you with a disaster. If you paint one side of the wood but it isn’t fully dry, you will most likely deal with some pretty severe warping. The non-painted side will dry faster and when that happens, you’ll end up not only with warped wood but with peeling and cracking paint as well. 

How to Paint Pressure Treated Wood 

Painting pressure treated wood involves steps that you wouldn’t necessarily take when painting regular lumber. Below is a list of step-by-step instructions you’ll need when painting pressure treated wood:

Step 1. Thoroughly Clean the Wood

Making sure the wood you’re working with is clean is the first step you’ll need to take before painting. Using a stiff-bristled brush and a solution of soapy water, scrub the entire surface of the wood. Follow up the cleaning with a good rinse and let dry. 

Step 2. Let the Wood Dry 

If you have an upcoming project that involves pressure treated wood, make sure and plan ahead when considering drying time. Be prepared that it could take as long as a few weeks to a couple of months. If you have a deadline on your project, it may be worth purchasing pressure treated wood that has already been through the drying process. 

Once the wood feels dry, test it out by using the water droplet method mentioned earlier in this article. If water beads up on the surface of the treated wood, it needs more time to dry. If the water absorbs into the wood, it’s dry enough to go forward with your painting. 

Step 3. Apply Primer 

Once you know your wood is completely dry you can begin applying your primer. Make sure and purchase a primer that is designed for exterior pressure-treated wood. A paint sprayer is fast and efficient but also using a brush may be necessary to catch all the detail work. 

Step 4. Apply Paint or Stain 

After you’ve allowed proper time for the primer coat to dry, you can start applying your top coats. We recommend applying two coats for the best protection and coverage. Stick with using latex paints as they tend to work best when dealing with pressure treated wood. Avoid using oil-based paints. 

Can You Paint Pressure Treated Wood Conclusion

Pressure treated wood may need a few extra steps in preparation for painting but other than that it’s a fairly straightforward process. However, if you feel your painting project may be more involved than you would like, and you live in the Boise area, calling in the professionals at Boise Home Painting is always a great option. Our team of experienced painters will be happy to answer all of your questions or give you a free quote. We serve the entire Boise area including Meridian and Eagle. Don’t hesitate to contact our office today!

Categories Exterior Painting

Exterior Paint Sheen & Finish Recommendations For Your Home

Exterior Paint Sheen

When choosing the best exterior paint sheen for your home, there’s more to it than just how it looks. It should be an important component in the paint-selection process as it can make or break the longevity of your paint and exterior surface. Doing your homework on the best sheen for exterior paint can really pay off in the long run. Read on to learn how to choose an exterior paint sheen for your specific climate as well as the benefits of using the correct finish. 

Before we go further, if you live in the Boise, Idaho area and need help painting the exterior of your home, we can help! We’ll give you a free estimate. In fact, we can even help you choose the best color for your home!

What Type of Exterior Paint Finish is Best? 

Paint sheen describes the glossiness or flatness of the paint once it dries. Some are better for painting trim and small details while others work well for siding. You need a finish that will protect your home from destructive UV rays which can cause your paint to peel, fade, or crack prematurely. Boise is known for hot, dry summers, freezing winters, and lots of rain in the fall and spring. For the best long-term results, you’ll need exterior paint made with high-quality resins, additives, and pigments. Finding the best paint sheen for your home will save you from repainting for years to come. Choosing the correct paint sheen has a big impact on how long your paint will last on exterior surfaces such as trim, doors, and siding. There are basically five different types of paint sheens that are used in exterior painting. Let’s go over each one so you’ll know when it’s appropriate to use them and when there’s a better choice. 

  • Flat or Matte Paint Finish 

While flat exterior paint finishes are used quite often, they aren’t the best choice for exterior projects. Because flat paint is porous, it’s more susceptible to fading and rotting from mildew problems. A finish with a shinier sheen is more protective, easier to clean, and aesthetically more pleasing. For this reason, flat or matte paint may be an option to consider for exterior walls only but not trim or doors. Because flat paint has little or no sheen, it’s excellent at concealing imperfections in your siding or wood. 

  • Eggshell Paint Finish 

Eggshell is considered the best sheen for exterior paint when it comes to painting the body of your home. It’s the perfect happy medium, landing between flat and satin finishes. Not too flat or too shiny, eggshell looks great on a variety of siding types. Because it’s easy to clean and provides a

pleasant appearance, it’s the preferred finish for most homeowners. If you’re repainting your house and are looking for a finish that can conceal small imperfections while being durable and looking nice, go with eggshell paint. 

  • Satin Paint Finish 

Satin paint has a bit more sheen than eggshell which makes it more durable, easy to clean, and holds up against abrasion. Satin and eggshell are fairly similar in popularity when it comes to exterior paint and are both excellent options. It’s a great choice for your trim if you want a glossy look without going overboard. Satin is exceptionally nice if you live in a hot, sunny climate like the Treasure Valley. The extra sheen makes a big difference when it comes to protecting your home from the UV rays.

  • Semi-Gloss Paint Finish 

Semi-gloss paint has noticeably more shine to it than the finishes mentioned above. This makes it perfect for surfaces that require frequent cleaning and upkeep. Not only is it easy to clean, but it protects against moisture and is more durable than satin. It’s important to note that the shinier the finish, the more imperfections you will be able to see. Semi-gloss is perfect for trim, shutters, garage doors, railings, and window sills. 

  • High-Gloss Paint Finish 

High gloss is too shiny to use on your exterior siding but is perfect when used to highlight architectural details, doors, and trim. Its beautiful shine can really bring the wow factor to your home when used appropriately. Its durable sheen adds richness to any color. Any part of your exterior that might get touched on a regular basis can benefit from a high-gloss finish. This includes window frames, decorative fixtures, shutters, decorative trim, and more. 

Glossy paint finishes may also be an option if your exterior will need to be washed frequently. For example, if you live in an area where dust can be a problem or have adventurous children. However, the shininess factor has a tendency to spotlight every imperfection which still makes eggshell a better overall choice. 

What Sheen should you Use for Exterior Paint?

Before you determine which paint sheen to use, consider what surface you are painting. Keep in mind that lower sheen paints such as satin or eggshell are often used for the body of the house while higher sheen paints like semi-gloss work best for accents, trim, and doors. Choosing the proper sheen for different outdoor surfaces will help you create a beautiful look and get the most from your paint. 

Satin or Semi-Gloss for Exterior Trim? 

When you’re talking about exterior trim, semi-gloss or high-gloss will always reign supreme. Satin is the preferred choice for exterior siding or walls but lacks the durability for areas like trim, doors, and shutters.

What is the Longest Lasting Exterior Paint? 

Painting the exterior of your home is expensive and time-consuming. Since it’s quite an undertaking, you want your paint job to last as long as possible. You don’t want to have to repeat the process over and over again. The sheen you choose plays a big part in longevity but what kind of exterior paint lasts the longest? 

Acrylic paint is the most durable with its ability to withstand fading from the sun, damage from the elements, and has overall great flexibility. This paint is water-based but has an added acrylic binding agent. Use acrylic paint for wood and aluminum siding, stucco, plaster, and drywall. 

What is the Best Time to Paint Your House Exterior? 

Painting the exterior of your home isn’t the type of job that you can do effectively any time of the year. Weather can play into the success of your paint job quite a bit. With that said, early summer and early fall are the ideal times for exterior painting. It’s always best to aim for a day that’s not too hot or too cold. The paint will dry the best when it’s not too humid. Avoid rainy days and always make sure all the surfaces you’ll be painting are completely dry.

Choosing the Best Exterior Paint Sheen For Your Home Conclusion

If you’re ready to upgrade your home’s exterior paint but still have questions about the best sheen, contact Boise Home Painting. Our professional painters have years of experience helping homeowners choose not only the best colors for their exterior but the best finish as well. We serve the entire Treasure Valley including Meridian, Nampa, and Eagle, and pride ourselves in treating each paint job like it’s our own. Click here to get your free estimate!

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