Exterior and interior paint are two types of paint that are applied to the surfaces of buildings. Exterior paint is used to protect the outside of a building from the elements, while interior paint is used to provide a decorative finish for the inside of a building. Although the two types of paint are similar in many ways, there are some key differences between them.
Composition
The main difference between exterior and interior paint is the composition of the paint. Exterior paint is designed to be more durable and weather-resistant than interior paint, which is why it contains higher levels of binders and resins. These binders and resins help the paint adhere better to the surface and provide better protection against the elements. Interior paint, on the other hand, typically contains higher levels of pigments and fillers, which are designed to give the paint a more vibrant color and smoother finish.
Durability
Exterior paint is much more durable than interior paint, as it is designed to withstand the harsher environment of the outdoors. Exterior paint is also typically oil-based, which makes it more resistant to fading and cracking. Interior paint, on the other hand, is usually water-based, which makes it more susceptible to damage from water and sunlight.
Color
Exterior paint is usually available in a wide variety of colors, but the colors tend to be more muted, as the paint needs to be able to withstand the sun and other elements. Interior paint, however, can come in a much wider range of vibrant colors, as it is not exposed to the same level of weathering.
Application
Another key difference between exterior and interior paint is how it is applied. Exterior paint is usually applied with a roller, brush, or sprayer, while interior paint is typically applied with a brush or roller. Exterior paint is usually thicker than interior paint, which makes it more difficult to apply.
In conclusion, exterior and interior paint are two types of paint with different compositions, durability, colors, and applications. Exterior paint is designed to be more durable and weather-resistant, while interior paint is designed to provide a more vibrant color and smoother finish. Understanding the differences between the two types of paint can help you make an informed decision when painting your building.
Difference in Durability
Exterior paint is designed to withstand weather conditions that interior paint is not, such as rain, wind, hail, and sun. Exterior paint must be flexible and able to expand and contract with the building material, such as wood and masonry. It should also protect against mildew, mold, and UV damage. In addition, exterior paint must be able to resist moisture, dirt, and other environmental elements. Interior paint does not need to withstand the same elements as exterior paint, so its durability is usually lower. Interior paint should be able to resist fading, stains, and general wear and tear.
Difference in Viscosity
The viscosity of paint refers to its thickness or thinness. Exterior paint is generally thicker than interior paint since it needs to adhere to the surface and provide better protection against the elements. Exterior paint also needs to be more resistant to wear and tear, so it needs to be more durable. Interior paint is usually thinner than exterior paint, as it does not need to be as durable. Interior paint is also formulated to cover the surface better, so it needs to be able to spread more easily.
Difference in Pigments
The pigments in paint are used to give it color. Exterior paint has more pigment than interior paint, as it needs to be able to withstand the elements. Exterior paint also needs to be able to resist fading from UV light, so it needs to have more pigment. Interior paint does not need to be as strong or as resistant to fading, so it contains fewer pigments. This makes interior paint easier to apply, as it is thinner and more fluid.