Outdoor work: how to choose a paint for wood?

For outdoor work, the selection of materials is more rigorous. Indeed, certain materials such as wood require specific treatment.

Faced with bad weather, sun rays or insects, this material can deteriorate quickly. Wood paint helps protect it. It also gives it aesthetics. With this in mind, the paint chosen must meet these criteria.

Why choose exterior paint for wood?

Exterior wood paint has a dual function. With its composition, it helps preserve and beautify this material. Among other things, it can act as a fungicide and an insecticide. It can be applied to all wooden surfaces as well as outdoor furniture. It prevents deformation, swelling, or even deterioration of this element.

In other words, using exterior wood paint gives the possibility of making it more resistant and durable. Choosing the wrong equipment is a waste of time, because the color can crack or flake. It may also not adhere to the wood. Therefore, choosing a specific paint helps to avoid these incidents.

The different types of special wood paints

The paint’s performance, its drying time and the type of surface to be painted must be taken into account before choosing the exterior wood paint. It can be acrylic, alkyd or glycero. The first is microporous and allows the wood to breathe. Respectful of the environment as well as the material, it dries quickly.

The second is suitable for temperate regions, because it is more resistant. It is also microporous and offers a satin finish on the painted surface. However, this two-coat paint takes longer to dry. The third is an oil paint, it is composed of polyloxane resin and anti-UV agents. It allows the wood to breathe. However, it is difficult to strip.

Steps to Properly Painting Exterior Wood

Carrying out an inventory allows you to choose the right exterior wood paint for this work. This process involves thinking about the rendering of the paint and its final appearance. It also involves checking the appearance of the wood: is it resinous and does it require sanding.

Cleaning the surface to be painted

In the case of cracked paint or a color renewal, sanding the wood is often necessary. It allows the wood to be restored to its original state. However, if the material is new or has never been painted, a light sanding is sufficient.

A brush or compressor can be used to remove dust. The use of water or other cleaning products is prohibited for this step, as a chemical reaction with the paint can be caused.

In some cases, the holed parts must be filled with a paste made from wood powder to make it smoother.

Applying the paint

In order to prevent the wood from absorbing too much paint, the use of a primer is essential. In addition, it facilitates the adhesion of the color to the material.

For best results, the paint should be applied evenly on a dry surface. It should follow the grain of the wood. One or two coats can be applied to the surface. The use of varnish also helps to give more shine to the woodwork.

Using different brushes helps to achieve a smoother surface. The brush gives the possibility to cover large areas of the wood, while flat or fine brushes allow to reach corners and edges.