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Ohio winters can be brutal, with freezing temperatures, snow, ice, and fluctuating moisture levels that can wreak havoc on a home’s exterior. Choosing the right exterior paint is crucial to ensure your home’s protection and maintain its aesthetic appeal. In this guide, we’ll explore the best exterior paints for harsh Ohio winters, what to look for when selecting paint, and tips to ensure a long-lasting finish.
Why Choosing the Right Exterior Paint Matters
Exterior paint serves as a protective barrier against the elements. In Ohio, where winters bring harsh conditions, the right paint can prevent moisture infiltration, cracking, peeling, and fading. It also contributes to your home’s curb appeal and can increase property value. Selecting high-quality, weather-resistant paint is an investment in your home’s longevity.
Key Features to Look for in Exterior Paint for Cold Climates
When selecting exterior paint for Ohio winters, consider these essential features:
1. Durability and Weather Resistance
Look for paints specifically designed to withstand extreme weather conditions, including freezing temperatures, snow, and ice.
2. Moisture Resistance
Paints with excellent moisture resistance prevent water from seeping into the siding, reducing the risk of mold, mildew, and wood rot.
3. Flexible and Elastic Formulas
Flexible paints expand and contract with temperature fluctuations, reducing the risk of cracking and peeling.
4. Low-Temperature Application
Choose paints that can be applied in lower temperatures (as low as 35°F), ideal for Ohio’s unpredictable fall and early winter weather.
5. UV Resistance
While winter might seem cloudy, UV rays can still cause fading. UV-resistant paints maintain their color longer.
6. Mildew and Mold Resistance
Look for paints with added mildewcides to prevent mold growth during Ohio’s damp winter months.
Top Exterior Paints for Ohio Winters
Here are some of the best exterior paints that hold up well in Ohio’s harsh winter conditions.
1. Sherwin-Williams Duration Exterior Acrylic Latex
Why It’s Great: Sherwin-Williams Duration is known for its exceptional durability and weather resistance. The acrylic latex formula provides a thick, flexible coating that withstands Ohio’s freeze-thaw cycles. It also offers excellent mildew resistance and can be applied in temperatures as low as 35°F.
Key Features:
- Excellent adhesion and flexibility
- Resistant to peeling, cracking, and blistering
- Built-in mildew and dirt resistance
2. Benjamin Moore Aura Exterior Paint
Why It’s Great: Aura is a premium exterior paint with outstanding color retention and resistance to harsh weather. Its advanced technology allows for superior adhesion and flexibility, perfect for Ohio’s cold winters. The mildew-resistant coating helps maintain your home’s appearance through damp conditions.
Key Features:
- Superior color retention and fade resistance
- Mildew-resistant finish
- Can be applied in temperatures as low as 40°F
3. Behr Premium Plus Ultra Exterior Paint and Primer
Why It’s Great: Behr Premium Plus Ultra combines paint and primer in one, providing excellent coverage and durability. The formula is resistant to moisture, mildew, and fading, making it ideal for Ohio’s variable winter weather.
Key Features:
- Stain and dirt-resistant
- Moisture and mildew-resistant
- UV protection for color retention
4. Valspar Duramax Exterior Paint and Primer
Why It’s Great: Valspar Duramax is formulated with FlexShield technology, which allows the paint to expand and contract with temperature changes, reducing the likelihood of cracking. It’s highly resistant to fading, moisture, and mildew, making it a solid choice for Ohio homes.
Key Features:
- FlexShield technology for flexibility
- Superior resistance to cracking, peeling, and fading
- Can be applied in cold temperatures
5. PPG Timeless Exterior Paint and Primer
Why It’s Great: PPG Timeless offers advanced protection against the elements with its durable acrylic latex formula. It’s designed to resist cracking, peeling, and fading while providing a mold and mildew-resistant finish, perfect for Ohio’s wet winters.
Key Features:
- One-coat coverage
- UV and moisture-resistant
- Strong adhesion for long-lasting protection
Tips for Painting Your Home’s Exterior in Cold Weather
Even with the best paint, proper application techniques are crucial for a successful exterior painting project in Ohio’s winter conditions.
1. Check the Weather Forecast
Ensure you have a window of dry weather with temperatures within the paint’s recommended range. Most cold-weather paints can be applied in temperatures as low as 35°F, but it’s best to avoid painting when temperatures are expected to drop below freezing shortly after application.
2. Prepare the Surface Properly
Clean the exterior thoroughly to remove dirt, mildew, and loose paint. A pressure washer can be effective, but ensure the surface is completely dry before painting.
3. Use the Right Tools
High-quality brushes and rollers designed for exterior use will help ensure smooth, even application. If using a sprayer, make sure it’s rated for thicker, exterior paints.
4. Apply During the Warmest Part of the Day
Paint during the late morning to early afternoon when temperatures are warmer, and there’s less dew on surfaces.
5. Allow Sufficient Drying Time
Cold weather can slow drying times. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions and allow extra time between coats to ensure proper adhesion.
Maintaining Your Exterior Paint During Ohio Winters
Once you’ve painted your home, maintenance is key to ensuring the paint job lasts through Ohio’s winters.
1. Regular Inspections
Check for signs of cracking, peeling, or mildew, especially after heavy snow or ice storms. Early detection allows for quick touch-ups.
2. Keep Gutters and Downspouts Clear
Ensure proper drainage around your home to prevent water from seeping into the siding and damaging the paint.
3. Remove Snow and Ice Buildup
Safely remove snow and ice from areas near the foundation and siding to prevent prolonged moisture exposure.
4. Touch Up as Needed
Address any small chips or cracks immediately to prevent moisture from infiltrating the paint and causing more significant damage.
Conclusion
Choosing the right exterior paint is essential for protecting your home from Ohio’s harsh winters. Look for durable, flexible, and moisture-resistant paints like Sherwin-Williams Duration, Benjamin Moore Aura, Behr Premium Plus Ultra, Valspar Duramax, and PPG Timeless. By following proper painting techniques and maintaining your exterior, you can ensure your home remains beautiful and protected year-round.
Views Expressed Disclaimer
The views, opinions, and information presented in this article are for informational purposes only and do not necessarily reflect the official policies or positions of Crocker Home Painting Company. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, Crocker Home Painting Company is not liable for any errors, omissions, or decisions made based on the content provided. Readers are encouraged to consult professionals for specific advice or assistance related to their unique circumstances.