Siding vs. Brick vs. Wood: Choosing the Right Paint for Your Home’s Exterior

A fresh coat of paint does more than boost curb appeal—it also protects your home from the elements. But not all surfaces are the same. Whether your home has siding, brick, or wood, choosing the right paint is key to having a long-lasting, great-looking finish. 

Here’s what you need to know about painting each type of exterior material.

Painting Vinyl and Aluminum Siding

Vinyl and aluminum siding are popular for their durability and low maintenance, but the right paint can make all the difference in how well they hold up over time.

Best Paint Types

Use 100% acrylic latex paint designed for vinyl or aluminum. These paints offer excellent adhesion and flexibility to withstand temperature changes. Vinyl siding expands and contracts with temperature shifts, so choosing a high-quality, flexible paint helps prevent cracking and peeling.

Key Considerations

Before painting your siding, there are a few important factors to keep in mind to ensure the best results.

  • Light colors work best for vinyl since darker shades absorb more heat, which can lead to warping.
  • Before painting, clean the siding thoroughly with a power washer or a mixture of water and mild detergent.
  • A bonding primer ensures the paint adheres properly, especially if the existing surface has a chalky residue.

Durability & Maintenance

A professionally applied paint job can last over a decade with proper prep. To maintain the finish, wash the siding regularly with a garden hose or mild soap to prevent dirt buildup. While vinyl is low maintenance, keeping an eye on areas exposed to harsh sunlight can help catch fading before it becomes noticeable.

Painting Brick Exteriors

Brick adds character to a home, but painting it requires careful planning. Unlike siding, brick is porous and can hold moisture, so the right paint and prep are crucial.

Best Paint Types

Masonry paint or mineral-based paint allows the brick to breathe while providing a protective finish. Unlike traditional latex paint, masonry paint penetrates the brick’s surface rather than just coating it, reducing the risk of chipping and peeling.

Key Considerations

Painting brick requires careful preparation and a long-term commitment. Here are some key factors to keep in mind:

  • Once painted, brick is difficult to restore to its original look. Painting is a long-term commitment.
  • Sealing and priming are essential to prevent moisture from getting trapped, which could lead to peeling or even structural damage.
  • Before applying paint, power washing removes dirt and mildew, and a masonry primer ensures the topcoat adheres properly.

Durability & Maintenance

A well-painted brick exterior can last decades but may need touch-ups every few years. While brick is highly durable, it’s still vulnerable to moisture issues. Regular inspections for cracks or signs of water damage are important for long-term durability. If you notice peeling paint, it’s often a sign that water is getting trapped inside the brick, which may require professional repair before repainting.

Painting Wood Siding

Wood siding offers a classic, natural look but requires more maintenance than other materials. The right paint and upkeep help prevent rot and peeling.

Best Paint Types

Acrylic latex or oil-based paint works well, depending on your climate and preference. Acrylic latex is flexible and resistant to cracking, while oil-based paint provides a rich finish but takes longer to dry. In humid areas, oil-based paint may offer better moisture protection, whereas acrylic latex is more environmentally friendly and easier to clean up.

Key Considerations

Proper preparation is crucial for a smooth, long-lasting finish on wood siding. Keep these points in mind:

  • Surface prep is essential. Wood must be scraped, sanded, and primed before painting to ensure a smooth, long-lasting finish.
  • Applying a high-quality primer helps prevent tannin bleed, which can cause stains to seep through the paint, especially with cedar and redwood siding.
  • Wood siding expands and contracts, so using flexible paint that moves with the material helps prevent cracking.

Durability & Maintenance

Expect to repaint wood siding every 5–7 years, depending on weather exposure. Homes in wetter climates may need fresh coats more often, while shaded areas tend to hold up longer. Regular inspections for peeling paint, rot, or insect damage help keep your home looking great. Keeping bushes and trees trimmed away from the siding also helps prevent moisture buildup and mold growth.

Other Factors to Consider

No matter what type of exterior you’re painting, a few additional factors can affect your results.

Climate and Weather Exposure

Homes in areas with intense sun need UV-resistant paint to prevent fading. If you live in a region with high humidity, look for paint with strong mildew resistance to prevent mold growth. In places with fluctuating temperatures, flexible paints that expand and contract with the surface can help prevent cracking.

Color Selection

Lighter colors reflect heat and require less maintenance, while darker colors absorb heat and may fade faster. Your home’s style, neighborhood trends, and even HOA guidelines may influence your decision. Testing a few sample colors on different areas of your home can help you see how they look at different times of day.

Professional vs. DIY Painting

Deciding whether to hire a professional or tackle the job yourself depends on your budget, time, and skill level. Here are some key points to consider:

  • Painting an entire home exterior is time-consuming and physically demanding, requiring ladders, sprayers, and specialized tools.
  • Professionals ensure proper surface prep, high-quality materials, and a flawless finish that lasts longer.
  • DIY painting may seem cost-effective, but mistakes can lead to premature peeling, cracking, or fading.
  • Hiring a professional saves time and effort while helping you avoid common painting issues.
  • Professionals can also spot potential problems, such as hidden rot or moisture damage, before they become costly repairs.

Let Visual Paint Help You Get the Best Results

Painting your home’s exterior is a big investment, and the right approach can make all the difference. Whether you’re painting siding, brick, or wood, choosing the right paint and preparation methods will ensure a long-lasting, beautiful finish.

Not sure where to start? 

Visual Paint’s experienced team can handle every step of the process, from selecting the right paint to applying a professional finish. We take the guesswork out of exterior painting, so you get a stunning, durable result that enhances your home’s curb appeal. Contact us today for a free quote and let’s bring new life to your home’s exterior!