Self-cleaning paint sounds like something that’s too good to be true, but it is very much a real product.
Self-cleaning paint is a special type of exterior acrylic paint. There is plenty of sophisticated science behind the formula, which was developed by the Singapore Institute of Manufacturing Technology, but as a homeowner, all you really need to know is how it works and the best ways to use it.
The main difference between self-cleaning paint and standard paint is self-cleaning paint contains a thin layer of tiny titanium dioxide particles, which causes water to “bead” when it hits the paint’s surface. The water beads essentially trap dirt and other particles as they hit the surface and can be wiped away easily. This is what makes the paint self-cleaning. It also helps protect the home’s exterior from standard wear-and-tear that can take its toll on standard paint.
Although more expensive than standard paint (a gallon usually costs between $50 to $75), its benefits far outweigh the cost for many homeowners. Besides its aesthetic properties, there are other practical benefits of self-cleaning paint, including:
- Versatility. Self-cleaning paint can be used on a variety of home exterior surfaces, including wood and vinyl. It is also available in different finishes, including flat, satin, and gloss.
- Longevity. The science behind self-cleaning paint is such that this type of paint will typically have a longer life than standard paint. Because it is so durable and long-lasting, is great for hard-to-reach areas that you may only touch up every few years simply because they are hard to reach.
- Requires less maintenance. In the long-term, self-cleaning paint is considerably less work than standard paint. Because of its chemical makeup, self-cleaning paint removes the dirt, grime, and other residue much faster and easier than standard paint, which means less power washing your home’s exterior surfaces and hand-washing the harder-to-reach areas like roof eaves, unusual corners, and small, tight spaces. Less washing means less water usage and a lower water bill. Self-cleaning paint is also less inclined to blistering, peeling, and other headaches that can accompany standard paint.
- Saves time. Self-cleaning paint is easy to apply, so you will spend less time on a paint job. You will also spend less time on touch ups and applying additional coats because this paint simply requires less upkeep.
- Less color fade. Self-cleaning paint is designed to resist moisture as well as other atmospheric elements that wreak havoc on standard paint. For instance, it is ultraviolet (UV) resistant, so it holds up well under the sun’s harsh rays. It fades much less, and at a much slower rate, than standard paint.
If you would like to learn more about self-cleaning paint and how it can extend the life of your home’s exterior, Sovereign Construction Services can help. Owner Steve Rush is well-versed on trends in the home building and remodeling industries and can make the right suggestions to give your home the look and feel you want. He is available to answer any questions you may have on self-cleaning paint and other cutting-edge home improvement technologies. Give him a call at 610-639-2986 or contact him here.