Living in Utah means dealing with some extreme weather conditions. Scorching summer heat, freezing winters, and that high elevation UV radiation can really take a toll on a home’s exterior paint job. If you want your paint to last, you need to choose paints specifically formulated to withstand Utah’s climate. Here’s a guide to the best exterior paints to use for lasting protection and beauty.
The Brutal Summer Sun
Utah summers bring relentless sunshine and heat that can quickly fade and degrade exterior paints not designed for the conditions. To combat this, look for paints with superior UV resistance and fade protection. Some good options:
- Elastomeric Paints – These flexible paints can stretch and contract with temperature changes without cracking or peeling. The elasticity helps prevent sun damage.
- 100% Acrylic Latex Paints – Acrylics resist chalking and fading better than other paint types when exposed to intense UV rays.
- Paints with UV Absorbers – Many exterior paints now add UV absorbing pigments to help prevent sun damage and color fading.
Frigid, Dry Winters
On the flip side, Utah’s winters can be brutally cold and dry. Exterior paints need excellent flexibility to expand and contract through freezing temperatures without cracking. They also need superior moisture resistance. Some top cold-weather picks:
- Elastomeric Paints – Again, their flexibility helps prevent winter weather damage.
- Siliconized Acrylic Latex – Silicone additives increase a paint’s elasticity and moisture resistance for cold climates.
- Paints with Ceramic Microspheres – The microscopic ceramic beads help insulate the paint film to prevent winter cracking.
When painting in late fall, consider using a paint conditioner to help the paint better withstand winter’s arrival.
High Elevation Sun Exposure
Another factor to consider in Utah is the higher elevation UV exposure. If you live in alpine areas like Park City, UV damage is amplified. For high elevation projects, look for exterior paints specifically labeled as UV-resistant or UV-blocking. As a general rule in Santaquin and other higher elevation communities, a top quality 100% acrylic latex paint from a reputable brand like Benjamin Moore or Sherwin-Williams is your best defense against premature fading and sun damage.
The Role of a Residential & Commercial Painter in Santaquin
Of course, even the best paints will fail prematurely if not applied correctly. Proper preparation, priming, and application techniques are crucial for maximizing a paint job’s longevity, which is where the skills of a professional Residential & Commercial Painter in Santaquin become invaluable. An experienced local painter understands Utah’s climate demands and the necessary steps for creating a lasting exterior finish.
Maintenance Matters
In addition to choosing the right exterior paint, proper maintenance is vital for preserving your home’s beauty through Utah’s climate extremes. Plan on repainting every 5-8 years, depending on your home’s exposure levels. Regularly clean surfaces, check for cracks or peeling, and address any issues quickly before damage spreads. With the right paint and some basic upkeep, you can keep your home looking vibrant for years.
Utah’s varied climate pressures can quickly degrade inferior exterior paints. But when you choose specialized UV-resistant, flexible, and moisture-blocking formulas designed for the job, you’ll have beautiful, long-lasting protection from nature’s harshest conditions.