If you are left with extra gallons of interior paint after a project, you might be thinking about using it for an exterior job or searching ‘how to make interior paint into exterior paint?’ While the idea of repurposing leftover paint can seem like a smart, budget-friendly choice, it’s essential to understand the pros and cons of this approach. Keep reading to learn if you can turn interior paint into exterior.
Can You Make Interior Paint Into Exterior Paint?
- Interior paints are formulated for indoor durability, not to withstand the elements. That means making them work for outdoor surfaces comes with challenges and potential drawbacks. While it is technically possible to modify interior paint to mimic some exterior properties, it’s not always the best practice.
Let’s explore how this can be done, what to consider, and why investing in the right exterior paint might save you time and effort in the long run.
Differences Between Interior and Exterior Paint
- Interior paint is designed specifically for indoor spaces. Its features, such as washability and stain resistance, keep rooms looking clean and fresh. However, exterior paint is built to endure outdoor conditions, withstanding rain, sun, wind, and other elements while protecting surfaces from damage.
The key distinction lies in the ingredients. Exterior paints include additives that resist mold, enhance durability, and extend their lifespan under harsh conditions. These additives are absent in interior paint, which is why extra steps are needed to modify interior paint for outdoor use, ensuring it can better withstand the environment.
Tips to Make Interior Paint Weatherproof
- To prepare interior paint for outdoor use, you’ll need to add weatherproofing additives. These additives help the paint resist water, block harmful UV rays, and create a durable protective layer against harsh weather conditions. Using a high-quality exterior primer is equally important.
An exterior primer improves paint adhesion, enhances durability, and reinforces the paint’s ability to withstand outdoor elements. Applying a strong primer is a cost-effective way to enhance the longevity of your interior paint when repurposed for outdoor use. However, it’s worth noting that even with these adjustments, interior paint may not perform as well as true exterior paint over time.
Making Interior Paint into Exterior Paint
- Follow these steps to repurpose interior paint for exterior surfaces:
Check the Paint
- Ensure the paint is fresh and free of clumps or damage. For the best results, avoid using old or degraded paint.
Add Weatherproofing Agents
- Purchase weatherproofing additives and mix them into the paint as directed. These agents improve resistance to water, UV rays, and other outdoor elements.
Prepare the Surface
- Clean the surface thoroughly to remove dirt, grease, and loose paint. Apply a high-quality exterior primer to create a strong base for the paint. Let the primer dry completely.
Apply the Paint
- Use high-quality brushes or rollers to apply the paint evenly. Cover every section thoroughly to ensure consistent protection.
Seal for Extra Durability
- Finish with a clear sealant to provide an extra layer of protection. This helps to extend the paint’s lifespan under harsh outdoor conditions.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Painting over dirty, greasy, or peeling surfaces can cause the paint to fail. Always clean and prime the area before applying paint.
- Not all weatherproofing additives are compatible with every paint. Double-check that the product you choose is suitable for your specific interior paint.
- Even weatherproofed paint requires periodic inspections and touch-ups. Ignoring maintenance can lead to cracking or peeling over time.
- While converting interior paint can work temporarily, opting for professional exterior painting ensures a durable, weather-resistant finish that provides long-lasting results.
Give your home the professional treatment it deserves with our exterior painting services. Experience Neat, Efficient, and Professional service with Miles Makarowski Painting! Call us today at (603) 489-8802 for a complimentary estimate. We are located in Atkinson, NH.