How to Choose the Right Exterior Paint for Your Home (PNW Edition)

How to Choose the Right Exterior Paint for Your Home (PNW Edition)

🏡 The Right Paint = Long-Lasting Protection

Choosing the right exterior paint isn’t just about looks—it’s about durability, maintenance, and protecting your home from the Pacific Northwest’s harsh weather. With constant moisture, occasional sun exposure, and the risk of mildew, homeowners in Chehalis, Centralia, and throughout Lewis County need to be strategic in their paint selection.

Here’s everything you need to know before picking your next exterior paint!

1️⃣ Understanding Paint Types: Latex vs. Oil-Based

Not all paints are created equal, and for PNW homes, choosing the right one can mean the difference between a paint job that lasts five years or twenty.

✔ Latex Paint (Water-Based) – The best choice for most homes in the Pacific Northwest. It dries faster, resists cracking, and allows for better breathability, preventing trapped moisture.
✔ Oil-Based Paint – More durable in some cases, but takes longer to dry and can become brittle over time. It also has higher VOCs.

💡 Best choice for the PNW? High-quality latex paint that resists moisture, fading, and mildew growth.

2️⃣ Invest in High-Quality Paint for Longevity

When it comes to exterior paint, cheaper is NOT better. A high-quality product resists the harsh weather conditions of Western Washington and lasts significantly longer.

At Gullard Painting, we work with trusted brands like Rodda Paint and Sherwin-Williams, both of which offer professional-grade exterior paints designed to withstand the PNW’s high moisture levels, frequent temperature changes, and exposure to UV rays.

✔ Our go-to choice is Rodda Paint’s CoverCoat XL & Protector XL, which are formulated specifically for Western Washington’s wet climate. These paints provide exceptional durability, moisture resistance, and long-lasting color retention.
✔ We also work with Sherwin-Williams’ premium exterior lines, such as Duration® and Emerald®, which many homeowners, contractors, and professional painters trust for their proven durability and extensive color selection.

🚫 Why avoid budget paints? Lower-quality paints fade quickly, peel under constant moisture exposure, and require frequent repainting—costing more in the long run.

3️⃣ Choosing the Right Paint Finish

The finish of your paint affects durability, appearance, and maintenance. Here’s what works best in our area:

✔ Satin Finish for Siding – The best balance of durability and appearance. Resists moisture and mildew while hiding small surface imperfections.
✔ Satin Finish for Trim & Doors – Many painters use semi-gloss, but in our area, satin is the standard choice for both siding and trim. It offers durability without looking overly shiny.

4️⃣ Best Exterior Paint Colors for PNW Homes

Western Washington’s weather and lighting conditions play a big role in how colors appear. Here’s what to consider:

✔ Earthy, Natural Tones Work Well – Muted greens, deep grays, rich browns, and classic whites complement the region’s landscape and look great in overcast lighting.
✔ Darker Colors Fade Faster – While deep blues and charcoals are popular, they will show signs of fading faster due to UV exposure.
✔ Light Colors Help with Maintenance – Lighter shades tend to hide dirt and wear better, making upkeep easier.

🚀 Pro Tip: Always test your colors in natural daylight and view them in both dry and wet conditions before committing.

5️⃣ Additional Factors to Consider

✔ Priming is Key – We always spot prime raw wood before painting. If a home is in rough condition, we may apply a full primer coat before two coats of finish for added protection.
✔ Moisture Resistance is Crucial – Our climate encourages mildew and mold growth. Using high-quality paint and keeping up with regular maintenance can prevent premature damage.
✔ When to Paint – While we can paint in temperatures as low as 38°F (as long as the paint dries before it drops below that), the best time for exterior painting is spring and summer when conditions are dry and warm.

⏳ How Often Should You Repaint?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Most homes in the PNW need exterior repainting every 5-20 years, depending on:
✔ The quality of the last paint job (materials & prep work)
✔ Exposure to direct rain, sun, and wind
✔ The type of siding (wood vs. fiber cement vs. stucco)

To keep your home protected, routine inspections for peeling, cracking, or fading paint will help determine when it’s time for a refresh.

🎯 The Bottom Line

Choosing the right exterior paint for your home in Chehalis, Centralia, and the surrounding areas means picking high-quality products, using the right finish, and planning for PNW weather conditions. With the right prep and materials, your paint job can last well over a decade, keeping your home looking beautiful and well-protected.

Need help selecting the perfect paint for your home? Trust the professionals at Gullard Painting to get the job done right. Contact us today!