Several families will have to review their plans for the birth of their child: the Mimosa birth center, in Lévis, will no longer be able to accommodate deliveries from 1st January due to the non-compliance of its century-old building.Benjamin Hasty will soon be a father for the fourth time. His wife’s first three births took place in the same room, nicknamed the Dahlia, at the Mimosa birth center.
“It’s been our little cocoon for the last three births, but finally we got the news that it won’t be possible,” he explains in an interview with TVA Nouvelles.
The birth center will no longer be able to give births from 1st January,due to non-compliance of the building. This is why the owner was unable to extend his insurance.
“The expected due date is January 8, then we found out about it around December 20 […] we’re getting a bit of a hangover in this situation,” continues the father.
For the region’s CISSS facilities coordinator, Stéphane Landry, it was obvious that the 150-year-old building presented compliance issues.”We had received notice from the region about the
Understanding and Choosing the Right Exterior Paint
Table of Contents
Your home’s exterior paint isn’t just about curb appeal; it’s a crucial layer of protection against the elements. Choosing the right paint can substantially extend the life of your siding, prevent moisture damage, and save you money in the long run. But with so many options available, where do you start? This guide breaks down everything you need to know about exterior paint, from types and finishes to preparation and application.
Types of Exterior Paint
The two main types of exterior paint are oil-based and water-based (latex). here’s a comparison:
Oil-Based Paint
- Pros: Excellent adhesion, durability, and a smooth, hard finish. resistant to mildew and staining.
- Cons: Longer drying time, requires mineral spirits for cleanup, emits higher levels of VOCs (volatile organic compounds), and can become brittle over time, leading to cracking and peeling.
Water-Based (Latex) Paint
- Pros: Faster drying time, easy soap-and-water cleanup, lower VOCs, more flexible (less prone to cracking), and better color retention.
- Cons: Generally less durable than oil-based paint, though modern latex formulas have significantly improved. May require more coats for full coverage.
Modern Recommendation: while oil-based paints were once the standard, high-quality 100% acrylic latex paints now often outperform them in many applications, especially regarding longevity and ease of use. They are the preferred choice for most homeowners.
paint Finishes Explained
The finish of your paint affects its appearance, durability, and how easy it is to clean. Here’s a breakdown of common exterior paint finishes:
- flat/Matte: Non-reflective, hides imperfections well. Less durable and harder to clean. Best for siding where you want to minimize shine.
- Satin/Eggshell: Slight sheen, more durable and easier to clean than flat. A good all-around choice for siding and trim.
- Semi-gloss: More sheen, very durable and easy to clean. Ideal for trim, doors, and shutters.
- Gloss: Highest sheen, extremely durable and easy to clean. Often used for front doors and decorative elements.
Preparing Your Exterior for Painting
Proper preparation is 80% of a successful paint job. Don’t skip these steps:
- Clean the Surface: Remove dirt, mildew, and loose paint with a pressure washer or scrub brush and a suitable cleaning solution.
- Scrape Loose Paint: Remove any peeling or flaking paint with a scraper.
- Sand: Smooth rough areas and feather edges of scraped paint.
- Repair Damage: Fill cracks and holes with exterior-grade caulk or wood filler.
- Prime: Apply a primer to bare wood, repaired areas, and surfaces with stains. Primer improves adhesion and ensures uniform color.
- Protect Surroundings: Cover plants, windows, and othre surfaces with drop cloths and painter’s tape.
Application Tips
- Choose the Right Tools: Use high-quality brushes, rollers, or a paint sprayer.
- Apply Thin Coats: Multiple thin coats are better than one thick coat.
- Paint in the Right Conditions: Avoid painting in direct sunlight, extreme temperatures, or when rain is expected.
- Follow the Manufacturer’s Instructions: Pay attention to drying times and recommended application methods.
FAQ
Q: How often should I paint my house exterior?
A: Generally, every 10-15 years, but this depends on the climate, paint quality, and the condition of the existing paint.
Q: What is the best time of year to paint my house exterior?
A: Spring and fall offer the most favorable temperatures and humidity levels.
Q: Can I paint over existing oil-based paint with latex paint?
A: Yes, but proper preparation is crucial. You must thoroughly clean, sand, and prime the surface with a bonding primer designed for this purpose.
Key takeaways
- 100% acrylic latex paint is generally the best choice for most exterior painting projects.
- Proper surface preparation is essential for a long-lasting paint job.
- Choose the right finish based on the surface and desired appearance.
- Pay attention to whether conditions during application.
Publication Date: 2025/12/31 07:29:08
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