Paint Color Fading - Causes & Solutions
It takes time to find the perfect shade of paint for your room or house, so once you do, you want to have confidence that your hue of choice stays fresh-looking for years to come. Learn about the most common causes of fading paint and what you can do to prevent them.
Causes
Have you ever walked into a room that looks shabby and old? In many cases, the culprit is paint that has faded. This may show up as a loss in brightness or dingy-looking color. Most rooms get different amounts of light and sun in different areas, so some walls may look different than others because they have faded more quickly. All this makes rooms less beautiful and detracts from the original quality of your paint job.
To understand how to prevent paint fading, the first step is to understand how the process happens. One of the primary causes of fading is sunlight. While rooms that get a lot of direct sunlight are most vulnerable to fading, even rooms with more subtle lighting may show changes over time. Exterior paint jobs get more light and are even more subject to fading.
Choosing paint to last
The type of paint you choose for the job is one of the most important factors in determining the staying power of your paint job. Low-quality paint may appear cheaper, but is more expensive in the long run because you find yourself repainting much earlier than you had hoped. Color is also a factor; brighter colors are more subject to fading.
Prevention beyond paint choice
In addition to the paint, it is also important to choose the right products to work with your paint to keep it looking fresh. Make sure that you understand the surface you are painting on, especially if it is outside, and apply the appropriate primer and sealant, if necessary. While this may cause your painting job to take more time, the effort is sure to pay off in more beautiful, vibrant color for years to come.
Mitigate and prevent paint fading with the right choice of supplies and a good understanding of what causes fading. Before you begin your job, taking some time to think about what the paint may look like in years to come helps to ensure the best outcome.
Primers and Finishes
Masonry primer/sealer is essential and must dry completely before repainting.
Select a top quality exterior paint in the color and sheen of your choice.
Substrates, Primers
Substrate: Various
Primer: Usually None
Finish Coats: 1240 Acry-Shield Exterior Flat Finish
1245 Acry-Velvet Ext. Low Sheen Finish
1250 Acry-Lustre Ext. Semi-Gloss Finish
1235 Seasons Ext. 100% Acrylic Flat
1236 Seasons Ext. 100% Acrylic Low Sheen
