If you’re considering painting your house, there are many types of house paint to choose between, not to mention the variety of house paint colors available. However, most paints fall into two categories: oil-based and water-based.

Oil-based paints are also called “alkyds.” Latex, vinyl and acrylic are all water-based paints.

Choosing Between Types of House Paint

While there are some water-based exterior paints, you’re more than likely going to want to opt for an oil-based paint. Oil-based paints are more durable when it comes to standing up to heat and weather.

While sturdier and longer lasting than water-based paints, oil-based types of house paint do have some drawbacks, including:

• They are more difficult to clean up than water-based paints
• They are slower to dry than water-based paints
• They emit strong fumes, which can cause headaches.

While water-based types of house paint aren’t as shiny or durable as oil-based paints, they’re popular because of their quick drying time and because they’re easy to clean with just water and detergent.

Specialty Types of House Paint

Some specialty paints on the market prevent against damage (mildew, mold, etc.), but these are more likely to be used indoors.

Some specialty types of house paint are best for different house styles:

• Wooden surfaces respond well to 100 percent acrylic paint with a satin sheen.
• For metal components of your home’s exterior, consider direct-to-metal paint.
• Elastomeric paint works particularly well on stucco and some woods.

Paint colors abound in both oil- and water-based products. Whichever house paint color you prefer, a match should be possible regardless of paint type.

Choosing a Primer

Whichever type of house paint you opt for, you will likely want to use a primer. Make sure to get the appropriate primer: oil-based for oil-based paint and water-based for water-based paint. If going over water-based with oil-based paint, you may be able to get by without a primer, but you may want to consider using one anyway for best results.

Price and Quality of Types of House Paint

If you’re attempting a DIY exterior paint job, chances are, budget is a major consideration for you. Experts say that $15 gallons of paint will normally last about four years, while $25 gallons of paint normally last 10 years. While more expensive initially, the $25 gallons can save you money in the long run.

With plenty of paint colors available in stores and through computer software, you can get the house paint colors and quality you want without much effort.