Painting Wood Houses – What You Need to Know

Painting wood can be tricky, and it’s different from painting other materials. Wood is a natural material from various types of trees, which means it has different textures and qualities. Here are some things to consider:

• Porosity: Wood absorbs and releases moisture, which makes it expand and shrink.
• Oils: Natural oils in the wood can affect the paint.
• Tannins: These can discolor the paint over time.
• Modern variations: Today’s wood is different from older wood and may present new challenges.

You might wonder, “What should my painter know about painting wood?” or “How can I avoid problems when painting my wooden house?”

What Makes Wood Different?

Unlike other materials, wood can be very different even within the same type. This variability can cause issues when painting. Wood’s porous nature means it absorbs moisture, causing it to swell and shrink. Using a flexible coating like Rhino Shield can help because it moves with the wood without cracking or chipping. This is especially important in places with big temperature changes, like colder areas where heating can make wood move even more.

Local painters who know the climate can help avoid common mistakes. Coatings are tested for flexibility, measured as a percentage. A coating that is 100% flexible is called elastomeric. Rhino Shield can stretch up to 495%, much more than the elastomeric requirement, and it stays flexible over time.

Primers and Coatings

Wood’s natural oils and tannins can cause paint to discolor over time. Using a stain-blocking primer can help keep the paint looking good. Also, sap in the wood can make it hard for the primer to stick, so choosing the right primer is important.

Modern Wood Challenges

Wood used today is different from older wood. Older wood was stronger and had fewer problems with rot and shrinkage because it grew slower. Today’s wood often comes from faster-growing, genetically modified trees, which can make painting harder. Modern wood can have issues with paint sticking and lasting. Hiring professional painters who know how to work with this kind of wood is important to avoid problems.

Different Wood Types

Different types of wood have unique characteristics. Knowing what kind of wood you’re painting is crucial. Rhino Shield uses specific primers for different woods to ensure the best adhesion and durability.

Conclusion

Painting wood involves dealing with its variability, porosity, natural oils, and modern changes. Understanding these factors and using the right primers and coatings is key to a lasting paint job. Whether it’s picking the right flexible coating, using stain-blocking primers, or regular maintenance, paying attention to details is important. For painting modern wooden homes, hiring experienced professionals is highly recommended to get a beautiful, long-lasting finish.

If you want a free, no-obligation quote on our Rhino Shield elastomeric coating, click the “Get My FREE Quote” button.