Have you ever wondered if you can use interior paint outside? Paint can be expensive, and no one likes to waste paint. However, using interior paint outdoors, especially in hot and dry climates like Arizona, isn’t recommended if you want durable and long-lasting results.
Interior paints are formulated for indoor conditions and aren’t made to withstand outdoor elements such as direct sunlight, temperature fluctuations, and moisture. If you need a painting company in Tucson, Arizona, click the button below to get your free quote. We serve the entire area including Marana, Oro Valley, Catalina Foothills, and more.
What Is The Difference Between Interior and Exterior Paint?
There are six main differences between interior and exterior paints that affect the results of each:
Formulation: Interior paint typically contains fewer volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and is formulated for low odor. It’s designed for easy cleaning and durability against typical indoor conditions. Interior paints are made using organic pigments which are known to fade significantly when exposed to harsh sun and light. Exterior paint contains additives to help it be resistant to fading, mildew, and harsh outdoor weather conditions. The pigment used in exterior paint is designed to withstand direct sunlight so that the color doesn’t fade as quickly as interior paint would. It typically has a higher VOC content because of the need for durability.
Durability: Interior paint is designed to withstand normal wear and tear like cleaning and scrubbing. However, it’s not designed to withstand exposure to the outdoor elements. Exterior paint, on the other hand, is built to endure UV rays, moisture, temperature changes, and other outdoor stresses—all of which make it more resilient.
Consistency: Interior paint is typically much thinner than exterior paint. If you were to use interior paint outside, you would need more coats of paint to cover your surface. Exterior paint tends to be thick which allows you to fully cover a surface with only a few coats.
Finish: Interior paint is available in a wide variety of finishes such as matte, satin, gloss, and eggshell which are suitable for indoor surfaces. Exterior paint typically has a flatter finish in order to minimize glare and improve adhesion. However, exterior paint does come in a satin or gloss finish for certain applications.
Application: Interior paint is typically applied with brushes or rollers and is designed to dry in indoor environments. Exterior paint may require different application techniques such as the use of sprayers, and is formulated to dry in varying outdoor temperatures.
Longevity: Interior paint generally has a shorter lifespan compared to exterior paint, and usually requires touch-ups more often. Exterior paint is formulated for a longer-lasting appearance under outdoor conditions.
What Happens If You Use Interior Paint Outside?
We highly recommend that interior paint not be used for exterior projects. However, some people may choose to try it anyway. If you choose to use interior paint outside, you can expect it to lead to issues like fading, peeling, bubbling, cracking, and even mold growth.
Can You Use Exterior Paint Inside?
Just as we recommend that you use only interior paint for interior projects, we also recommend that you use only exterior paint for exterior projects. As we stated earlier, exterior paints typically contain higher levels of VOCs, which can release strong odors and potentially harmful fumes indoors which may cause poor air quality inside. Exterior paint is also formulated to withstand harsh weather conditions and sunlight, making it thicker and less suitable for indoor surfaces. Chances are it won’t adhere well to indoor surfaces which could lead to bubbling and peeling. Since exterior paints have different finishes, they may not be visually appealing or appropriate for indoor settings.
Best Types Of Paint For Interior Projects
When choosing paint for your interior projects, we recommend that you consider the specific needs of the room, including traffic levels, type of surface, and your desired aesthetic. Here are some paints that work well with interior projects:
Acrylic Latex Paint: This is a water-based paint that works great on walls and ceilings. It dries quickly, has low VOCs, and is easy to clean up just using soap and water.
Matte/Flat Finish: This paint is ideal for low-traffic areas and ceilings. It hides imperfections well but may not be as washable or durable as acrylic.
Eggshell Finish: Eggshell finish is a good choice for living rooms and bedrooms because it has a slight sheen to it, is more durable than matte, and can easily be wiped clean.
Satin Finish: This paint is a wonderful choice for high-traffic areas like hallways or kids’ rooms. It is durable, versatile, and easy to clean.
Semi-Gloss Finish: Semi-gloss is often used for doors, trim, and moldings because it offers durability and washability, making it resistant to stains and easier to maintain.
Gloss Finish: This paint is best for surfaces that require a very durable finish, such as furniture and cabinets. Gloss paint provides a nice sheen and superb washability.
Best Types Of Paint for Exterior Projects
When you are choosing paint for your exterior projects, it is a good idea to look for options with durability, UV resistance, and low VOCs for better environmental impact. The following types are well-suited for outdoor conditions:
Acrylic Latex Paint: This is a water-based paint that is flexible, durable, and resistant to cracking, fading, and mildew. It’s ideal for most exterior surfaces, including vinyl, stucco, and wood.
Oil-Based Paint: Oil-based paints are a little less common these days, but they provide a durable, hard finish and excellent adhesion. They’re suitable for metal surfaces and some types of wood. It is important to note that oil-based paints have higher VOCs and longer drying times.
Elastomeric Paint: This is a flexible, thick paint designed for surfaces prone to cracking. It is excellent for concrete, stucco, and masonry. It also creates a waterproof barrier.
Primer: A good exterior primer is essential for bare or new surfaces because it enhances adhesion and prevents peeling. We recommend choosing a primer that is compatible with your topcoat (either latex or oil-based).
Specialty Paints: For specific applications, we recommend specialty paints like anti-mold or anti-fungal for humid environments or high-heat paints for surfaces exposed to hot climates.
Can You Use Interior Paint Outside Conclusion
Choosing the right type of paint is one of the most important steps in any painting project. We at Spahr’s Painting can help remove all of the guesswork for you and guarantee results you’ll be happy with. Our team of skilled professionals has years of experience and can help you get the results you are hoping for with all of your painting needs. Give us a call today! We service Tucson and surrounding areas.
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