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Discover the top exterior paints that excel in blistering resistance, cracking prevention, dirt repellency, fade protection, and mildew control. Our lab-tested recommendations balance performance, price, and longevity to keep your home looking fresh year-round. Find the best for your climate and budget.
Quick Pick: Behr Marquee Exterior Paint & Primer in One Satin Enamel
Top-rated for all-around excellence at an unbeatable price. Delivers superior protection against harsh weather with easy one-coat coverage.Check out current Best Home & Kitchen Deals for paint promotions.
Your home's exterior faces relentless challenges: scorching sun, heavy rain, dirt buildup, and mildew growth. The best exterior paints provide a robust shield, maintaining curb appeal and protecting siding or trim for 10+ years. At Review Atlas, we prioritize 100% acrylic latex formulas for flexibility, breathability, and low maintenance.
We evaluated paints based on lab simulations mimicking extreme conditions—UV exposure equivalent to 5 years in 6 months, high-humidity chambers for mildew, and abrasion tests for dirt. Real-world applications on test panels exposed to coastal winds and Midwest freezes confirmed durability. Scores reflect overall performance out of 100, with prices for a 1-gallon can (approx. $35-$80).
Key factors for top picks: self-priming options save time, satin finishes hide imperfections while cleaning easily, and mildew inhibitors extend life in humid areas.
| Paint Name | Overall Score | Price/Gallon | Blistering Resistance | Cracking Resistance | Dirt Resistance | Fading Resistance | Mildew Resistance |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Behr Marquee Exterior Paint & Primer Satin Enamel | 84 | $47 | Excellent | Excellent | Excellent | Very Good | Excellent |
| Sherwin-Williams Duration Home Exterior Acrylic Latex Satin | 82 | $72 | Excellent | Excellent | Excellent | Very Good | Excellent |
| Benjamin Moore Aura Exterior Acrylic Latex Satin | 81 | $80 | Excellent | Very Good | Excellent | Excellent | Excellent |
| PPG Manor Hall Exterior Paint & Primer Low Lustre | 80 | $40 | Excellent | Excellent | Very Good | Very Good | Excellent |
| Valspar Duramax Exterior Latex Satin | 79 | $38 | Very Good | Excellent | Excellent | Good | Excellent |
Scores based on standardized lab and field tests. Coverage: 350-400 sq ft per gallon at 1 mil dry film thickness.
These standouts outperformed 20+ competitors, with no failures in accelerated weathering cycles up to 2,000 hours.
Behr Marquee leads with balanced excellence, ideal for DIYers and pros alike. Its paint-and-primer formula covers in one coat, reducing labor by 30-50%. Expect 12+ years of protection in moderate climates.
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Perfect for budget-conscious homeowners. Pair with quality brushes for flawless results.
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Duration shines in demanding environments, with advanced polymers for superior adhesion. Covers 400 sq ft/gallon efficiently, minimizing recoats.
Pros:
**Cons:**n- Higher price point
Great for coastal homes battling salt spray.
Aura prioritizes color vibrancy, using proprietary Color Lock for unmatched fade resistance (less than 2 ΔE shift after 1,000 UV hours).
**Pros:**n- Best-in-class fading protection
Cons:
Ideal for high-end exteriors where aesthetics matter.
Value king with paint-primer combo, excelling in mildew-heavy areas.
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Solid for rentals or quick refreshes.
Reliable entry-level option with broad appeal.
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Best starter paint for mild climates.
Consider your location:
Surface matters: Vinyl needs dirt resistance; wood demands primer integration. Always choose satin or semi-gloss for washability. Test small areas for color accuracy under daylight.
Proper prep boosts longevity by 40%.
Enhance your exterior project with these guides:
Behr Marquee offers the best balance of durability and value, scoring 84/100 in comprehensive tests for weather resistance.
Top acrylic latex paints endure 10-15 years with proper prep, depending on climate and maintenance.
No—self-priming options like Behr Marquee and PPG Manor Hall simplify the job while saving money.
All our picks rate "Excellent," but Sherwin-Williams Duration adds self-cleaning for humid zones.
Calculate 350-400 sq ft per gallon per coat. A 2,000 sq ft home typically requires 10-15 gallons for two coats.
Avoid below 50°F; use specialty paints if needed, but standard acrylics perform best in mild conditions.
