Choosing the right paint for your home exterior in Austin is not just about picking a color you like. The Texas sun, humidity, and seasonal storms can chew through cheap paint in just a couple of years. The wrong choice means fading, peeling, and repainting sooner than you expected. The right choice, however, can give your home 10+ years of protection and keep it looking sharp.
This guide breaks down the best exterior paints for Austin’s unique climate, explains the differences in paint types, and compares the most popular brands.
Choosing the Right Exterior Paint for Texas Weather
Painting in Austin is a battle against the elements. The heat, UV rays, and humidity mean the type of paint matters just as much as the brand. Here’s how they stack up:
- Latex Paints (Most Popular in Austin): Flexible and breathable, latex paints expand and contract with Texas weather swings. They resist mildew, dry quickly, and perform well in Austin’s humidity.
- Oil-Based Paints (Good for Trim and Doors): Oil-based paints provide a tough, glossy finish that resists wear on high-contact areas like doors, trim, and shutters. The downside is they don’t breathe as well, making them less ideal for full siding jobs in Austin’s humidity.
- Elastomeric Coatings (Great for Stucco and Masonry): These paints are thick and rubbery, bridging small cracks and creating a waterproof barrier. They’re a top choice for stucco homes around Central Texas and can add years to the life of your paint job.
- UV-Resistant Formulas: Austin sunlight is no joke. UV protection keeps bold colors from fading in just a couple of summers. Investing in fade-resistant paint can double the life of your exterior.
Think of paint in Austin as a shield, not just a style choice. Skimping on quality might save you upfront, but it will cost you in early repainting.
Best Paint Brands for Austin Homes
When it comes to brands, homeowners usually ask, “Sherwin-Williams or Behr—which is better for Austin?” The truth: both can work, but only if you pick the right product line.
- Sherwin-Williams: Known for professional-grade paints like SuperPaint, Duration, and Emerald. These lines hold up especially well against UV rays, making them a strong choice for Austin exteriors. Sherwin-Williams also has multiple locations across Austin (South Lamar, Burnet Rd, Research Blvd), so getting product or advice is easy.
- Behr (Home Depot): Behr Premium Plus Ultra and Marquee lines offer solid durability for the price, making them a common DIY pick. They perform decently in Austin’s climate, but many pros lean toward Sherwin-Williams for longer-lasting results.
- Benjamin Moore: Aura and Regal Select are premium options that handle Austin’s sun and humidity well. Available at specialty paint stores around the city, these are popular for homeowners who want vibrant colors that resist fading.
- Eco-Friendly Options: For homeowners who prefer low-VOC or sustainable paints, brands like Benjamin Moore Natura or Sherwin-Williams Harmony provide greener alternatives while still offering durability.
Paint Lifespan in Austin
On average, exterior painting in Central Texas lasts 7–10 years with premium products. With cheaper paints, you may be looking at repainting in just 4–5 years due to fading and cracking.
| Paint Type | Average Lifespan in Austin | Best Use |
|---|---|---|
| Latex (High-Quality) | 7–10 years | Siding and general exteriors |
| Oil-Based | 5–7 years | Trim, doors, shutters |
| Elastomeric | 10–12 years | Stucco, masonry |
| Budget Paint | 3–5 years | Short-term fixes |
👉 Investing in higher-quality paint is almost always cheaper long-term in Austin’s climate.
Learn More About Paint Types and Brands
Dive deeper into comparisons and brand guides:
- Sherwin-Williams vs. Behr for Texas Climate
- Best Eco-Friendly Exterior Paint Brands in Austin
- Most Durable Paint Finishes for Austin Sun Exposure
- UV-Resistant Paint Options for Austin Homes
Get Expert Paint Selection Help
Choosing the wrong paint in Austin can mean repainting years early. At TruCoat Painters, we’ve tested and used every major brand across hundreds of homes in Central Texas. We’ll help you pick the right formula for your siding, budget, and neighborhood so your home looks great and stays protected.