Choosing the right Behr exterior paint doesn’t have to be a puzzle. This guide breaks down the best Behr options for your home with clear comparisons, helping you pick a durable, beautiful finish that lasts. We’ll cover key features, pros, and cons for beginners.
Hey there, DIY enthusiasts and homeowners! Md Meraj here, ready to help you tackle your next big project: painting your home’s exterior. Picking the right paint can feel overwhelming, with so many choices and technical terms. You want something that looks great, protects your home from the weather, and lasts for years without peeling or fading. It’s a common frustration, but don’t worry! With a little guidance, you’ll be able to confidently select the perfect Behr exterior paint for your home. Let’s simplify this process together and get your home looking its absolute best.
Why Behr for Your Exterior Project?
Behr is a trusted name in paint for a reason. They’ve been around since 1947, consistently offering quality products that homeowners and professionals can rely on. When it comes to exterior paint, Behr aims to provide solutions that stand up to the elements – think sun, rain, snow, and temperature changes. Their paints are formulated for durability, hiding power, and ease of application, which are all crucial when you’re painting the outside of your house. Whether you’re refreshing a tired facade or giving your home a complete makeover, Behr has a range of options designed to meet different needs and budgets.
Understanding Behr Exterior Paint Lines
Behr offers several distinct lines of exterior paint, each with its own strengths. Knowing the differences will help you make an informed choice. We’ll focus on some of their most popular and accessible lines for DIYers.
Behr Premium Plus®
This is a fantastic all-around choice for many homeowners. Behr Premium Plus is known for its good durability, excellent coverage, and mildew resistance. It’s also a low-VOC (Volatile Organic Compound) paint, which is better for air quality.
Key Features:
Excellent hide and coverage
Mildew-resistant finish
Stain-blocking properties
Good durability and fade resistance
Low VOC
Available in Flat, Satin, Semi-Gloss, and Gloss finishes
Pros:
Great value for the price.
Easy to find at The Home Depot.
Covers well, often meaning fewer coats.
Good for a wide variety of surfaces like wood, vinyl, and stucco.
Cons:
May not be as ultra-durable as their top-tier lines in extreme weather conditions.
Can be a bit thicker, so proper prep and application are key.
Behr Marquee®
Behr Marquee is positioned as a premium option, designed for superior performance and longevity. It boasts excellent one-coat coverage and exceptional durability, making it a great choice if you’re looking for long-lasting results and don’t want to fuss with multiple coats.
Key Features:
Guaranteed one-coat coverage (under specific conditions)
Superior durability and fade resistance
Excellent stain resistance
Enhanced mildew resistance
Low VOC
Advanced color lock technology
Pros:
The one-coat coverage can save significant time and paint.
Exceptional resistance to dirt and stains.
Colors stay true and vibrant for longer.
Ideal for high-traffic areas or homes in challenging climates.
Cons:
Higher price point compared to Premium Plus.
The “one-coat guarantee” has specific conditions, so read the label carefully.
Behr Ultra™
Behr Ultra sits between Premium Plus and Marquee, offering enhanced durability and protection. It’s designed to withstand tough weather and UV exposure, making it a solid choice for homeowners who want a robust finish without the premium price tag of Marquee.
Key Features:
Excellent durability and weather resistance
Stands up to dirt and grime
Good hide and coverage
Mildew and algae resistant
Low VOC
Pros:
A good balance of performance and cost.
Offers better protection than Premium Plus in some areas.
Available in a wide range of colors and finishes.
Cons:
May require two coats for best coverage, especially with drastic color changes.
Not as many “advanced” features as Marquee.
Behr Exterior Paint Comparison Chart
To help you visualize the differences and similarities, here’s a comparison chart. This will highlight the key aspects of each paint line at a glance.
| Feature | Behr Premium Plus® | Behr Ultra™ | Behr Marquee® |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price Point | $$ (Affordable) | $$$ (Mid-Range) | $$$$ (Premium) |
| Coverage | Excellent | Very Good | Superior (One-Coat Guarantee) |
| Durability/Lifespan | Good | Very Good | Excellent |
| Fade Resistance | Good | Very Good | Excellent |
| Mildew Resistance | Good | Very Good | Excellent |
| Stain Resistance | Good | Very Good | Excellent |
| VOC Level | Low | Low | Low |
| Best For | General use, good value | Moderate to high-wear areas | High-impact areas, demanding climates, perfect finish |
| Application Ease | Easy | Easy | Very Easy |
Choosing the Right Finish
Beyond the paint line, the finish (sheen) you choose also plays a big role in how your exterior looks and performs.
Flat/Matte: This finish has no shine. It’s great for hiding imperfections on surfaces like siding or stucco and gives a soft, classic look. It’s less durable and harder to clean than glossier finishes, so it’s often best for less exposed areas or historical homes where that look is desired.
Satin/Eggshell: These offer a slight sheen. They are more durable and easier to clean than flat finishes, making them a popular choice for many exterior applications like siding and trim. They offer a nice balance.
Semi-Gloss: With a noticeable sheen, semi-gloss is very durable and easy to clean. It’s ideal for trim, doors, shutters, and other architectural details that you want to stand out and withstand moisture and cleaning.
Gloss: This is the most reflective finish. It’s extremely durable and washable, perfect for doors, accent pieces, or any area you want to draw attention to. However, it will highlight any surface imperfections.
For most exterior siding, a Satin or Semi-Gloss is a great balance of aesthetics and performance. Semi-Gloss is usually preferred for trim, doors, and window frames due to its durability and washability.
Essential Steps for a Professional Paint Job
No matter which Behr paint you choose, proper preparation and application are key to a beautiful, long-lasting finish. Think of it like building a sturdy workbench – the foundation matters!
Step 1: Planning and Safety First!
Assess Your Surface: What are you painting? Wood, vinyl, stucco, metal? Make sure the paint is suitable for the material. Check the paint can or Behr’s website for specific recommendations.
Check the Weather: Avoid painting in direct, hot sun, high humidity, or when rain is expected. Ideal temperatures are typically between 50°F and 90°F (10°C and 32°C). You can find detailed weather recommendations from sources like the Building Science Information.
Gather Supplies:
Behr exterior paint (your chosen line and finish)
Primer (if needed, especially for drastic color changes or bare surfaces)
High-quality synthetic brushes (for cutting in)
Roller covers appropriate for your surface (e.g., 1/2″ for smooth, 3/4″ for textured)
Roller frame and extension pole
Paint tray and liners
Painter’s tape
Drop cloths or plastic sheeting
Scrapers and wire brushes
Sanding blocks or sandpaper
Caulk and caulk gun
Cleaning supplies (mild detergent, water, rags)
Ladder and safety equipment (gloves, masks, eye protection)
Safety Gear: Always use safety glasses, gloves, and a dust mask, especially when sanding or working at heights. Ensure ladders are stable and on level ground.
Step 2: Surface Preparation is Crucial
This is arguably the most important step. A good paint job starts with a clean, sound surface.
1. Clean the Surface: Wash the entire exterior thoroughly. Use a pressure washer (on a low setting to avoid damage) or a garden hose with a strong detergent solution and a scrub brush. Rinse well and allow it to dry completely. Mildew can be treated with a bleach solution (1 part bleach to 3 parts water – wear protective gear!) – rinse thoroughly.
2. Scrape and Sand: Remove any loose, peeling, or chipping paint. Sand down any rough areas or glossy surfaces to create a better grip for the new paint.
3. Repair: Fill any cracks, holes, or gaps with exterior-grade caulk or wood filler. Allow it to cure according to the product instructions.
4. Prime: If you’re painting over bare wood, metal, or a darker color with a lighter one, or if the surface is chalky, apply a high-quality exterior primer. Behr has excellent primers designed to work with their paints. Let the primer dry completely.
5. Tape: Use painter’s tape to protect any areas you don’t want to paint, like window frames, door edges, or light fixtures.
Step 3: Application Techniques
Once your surface is prepped and dry, it’s time to paint!
1. Stir the Paint: Open your paint can and stir it thoroughly with a paint stirrer. Gently fold the color from the bottom to ensure it’s evenly mixed. Never shake exterior paint.
2. Cut In: Use a synthetic brush to paint the edges and corners, or areas where a roller can’t reach easily (like around trim or windows). Work in small sections.
3. Roll It On: Pour paint into your roller tray. Dip your roller into the paint, making sure it’s evenly coated but not overloaded. Apply the paint to the surface in a “W” or “M” pattern, then even it out with overlapping strokes. Work from top to bottom on each section.
4. Maintain a Wet Edge: Overlap your strokes onto the still-wet section of paint. This helps avoid lap marks and ensures a smooth, uniform finish.
5. Multiple Coats: For most surfaces and colors, two thin, even coats will provide the best durability and appearance. Let the first coat dry completely according to the can’s instructions (usually 4 hours, but check for recoat times) before applying the second.
6. Remove Tape: Carefully remove painter’s tape while the last coat of paint is still slightly wet. Pull it away at a 45-degree angle.
Behr Exterior Paint for Different Surfaces
Behr paints are versatile, but certain surfaces might benefit from specific considerations or product types.
Wood Siding and Trim
Best Choices: Behr Premium Plus, Behr Ultra, Behr Marquee.
Considerations: Wood needs protection from moisture. Ensure all surfaces are well-caulked and primed if necessary. Use a good quality brush for intricate trim work. Satin or semi-gloss finishes are popular for their ability to withstand weather and be cleaned.
Stucco and Masonry
Best Choices: Behr Premium Plus, Behr Ultra, Behr Marquee can all work. Behr also offers specific masonry coatings.
Considerations: Stucco can be porous. A good primer is often essential. Ensure the surface is free from dust and debris. A satin or flat finish often looks best on stucco.
Vinyl Siding
Best Choices: Behr Premium Plus, Behr Ultra, Behr Marquee specifically formulated for vinyl siding. There are also Behr paints with a “vinyl safe” color palette.
Considerations: Vinyl can expand and contract with temperature. Painting with a color that is significantly darker than the original can cause warping. Always check the vinyl safe color guides from manufacturers or Behr. Use a low-sheen finish.
Metal Surfaces (Doors, Gutters, etc.)
Best Choices: Behr Premium Plus, Behr Ultra, Behr Marquee, often with a specific metal primer.
Considerations: Metal needs thorough cleaning and often a rust-inhibiting primer if there’s any sign of corrosion. Semi-gloss or gloss finishes are excellent for metal due to their smooth, washable surface.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What is the most durable Behr exterior paint?
A1: Generally, Behr Marquee® is considered their most durable and long-lasting exterior paint due to its advanced color lock technology and superior resistance to fading, cracking, and peeling. Behr Ultra™ is also a very durable option, sitting just below Marquee in performance.
Q2: Can I paint over old, peeling paint?
A2: No, you should never paint directly over peeling paint. You must scrape away all loose paint, sand the edges smooth, and then prime the area before applying new paint. Proper surface preparation is key to a lasting finish.
Q3: How many coats of Behr exterior paint do I need?
A3: For most projects, two coats are recommended for optimal coverage, durability, and color consistency. Behr Marquee® is guaranteed for one coat under ideal conditions, but even with Marquee, a second coat often enhances the finish and color depth.
Q4: What is the best finish for exterior trim?
A4: Semi-gloss or gloss finishes are typically best for exterior trim, doors, and shutters. They are very durable, resistant to moisture, and easy to clean. They also provide a nice visual contrast to the main house color.
Q5: How long does Behr exterior paint last?
A5: With proper preparation and application on a well-maintained surface, Behr exterior paints can last anywhere from 5 to 15 years. The lifespan depends heavily on the specific paint line used, the climate, the quality of surface preparation, and the amount of wear and tear the surface endures.
Q6: Do I need a special primer for exterior paint?
A6: Yes, it’s often best to use an exterior-specific primer. Primers help with adhesion, block stains, seal porous surfaces, and ensure a more uniform finish and true color. Behr offers a range of primers tailored for exterior use.
Q7: Where can I buy Behr exterior paint?
A7: Behr paints are primarily sold exclusively at The Home Depot and on HomeDepot.com. You can also find some Behr products at other retailers depending on the specific line or region.
Conclusion: Painting with Confidence
Choosing the right Behr exterior paint is a significant step towards beautifying and protecting your home. Whether you opt for the reliable value of Behr Premium Plus, the enhanced durability of Behr Ultra, or the superior performance of Behr Marquee, you’re investing in a quality product. Remember, success lies not just in the can of paint, but in the careful preparation and application.
Take your time with cleaning, scraping, and sanding. A little extra effort upfront will pay dividends in a finish that looks stunning and holds up against the elements for years to come. Don’t be afraid to ask for advice at the store or consult Behr’s website for specific product details. With this guide, you’re now well-equipped to compare Behr exterior paints and make the best choice for your project. Happy painting!