The Ultimate Guide To Choosing The Best Paint For Exterior Wood Columns

Are you a homeowner who takes pride in the appearance of your property? Do you love spending time outdoors, soaking up the sun on your front porch?

If so, you probably realize how crucial it is to preserve the elegance and robustness of your home’s façade, particularly its wooden columns. These columns add aesthetic value to your home and provide structural support and protection against the elements.

However, without proper care and maintenance, they can become weathered, cracked, and even rotted over time. That’s where choosing the best paint for your exterior wood columns comes into play.

In this ultimate guide, we’ll explore the factors to consider when choosing the best paint for exterior wood columns, as well as our top recommendations for achieving long-lasting, beautiful results.

3 Best Paint For Exterior Wood Columns – Product Review

If you’re looking to freshen up your home’s exterior, painting your wood columns can make a big impact.

In this product review, I’ll highlight the 3 best paints for exterior wood columns to help you choose the right one for your project.

Feature	RTG Deck, Porch, & Patio Anti-Slip Paint	Valspar 1505 Interior and Exterior Latex Porch & Floor Enamel	INSL-X Tough Shield Floor and Patio Paint
Finish Type	Textured light sheen	Satin	Satin
Color Options	White, Light Gray, Sand, and Clear/Amber	Clear Base	Gray Pearl, Desert Sand, Light Gray, Saddle Brown, and Tile Red
Size	1 Quart	1 Quart	1 Gallon
Coverage	80-100 sq. ft. per quart	300-400 sq. ft. on smooth surfaces and 200-300 sq. ft. on rough surfaces per quart	350-450 sq. ft. per gallon
Paint Type	Water-based polyurethane	100% Acrylic Latex	Enamel, Acrylic
Usage	Decks, porches, patios, stairs, ramps, and more	Porches, floors, decks, basements, patios, siding, trim, furniture, and trellises	Porch, floors, and patio
Surface Recommendation	Sealed concrete, masonry, and wood without priming	Previously painted or primed surfaces	Wood
Abrasion Resistance	Yes	Yes	Yes
Weather Resistance	Yes	Yes	Yes

RTG Deck, Porch, & Patio Anti-Slip Paint

Features

Enhances the aesthetic appeal of exterior surfaces while providing secure footing, especially in wet conditions.

Suitable for a wide range of outdoor areas, including decks, porches, patios, stairs, ramps, and more.

Incorporates a non-abrasive traction additive that ensures slip resistance without causing damage.

Simple application process using a brush or roller, with recommended roller cover sizes depending on surface texture.

Boasts exceptional durability to withstand heavy foot traffic and endure harsh weather conditions without losing its vibrant color.

Environmentally friendly formulation with low odor and low VOC (volatile organic compounds), as it is water-based and contains polyurethane.

Can be directly applied to properly prepared sealed concrete, masonry, and wood surfaces without the need for priming, saving time and effort.

Cleans up quickly with soap and water.

Available in four neutral colors: White, Light Gray, Sand, and Clear/Amber.

One quart covers 80-100 sq. ft.

Textured light sheen finish for a warm and welcoming look.

Fast-drying DIY-friendly paint that is very easy to apply.

Non-slip texture is softer compared to other anti-slip paints.

Made in the USA, and offers a much better value than other brands.

Pros

Provides anti-slip traction on surfaces that can be slippery when wet or dewy.

Easy to use and apply with a roller.

Can transform an old or dingy patio or deck into a cozy outdoor space.

Works well in warmer climates as it covers well and meets expectations.

Can provide mobility for dogs or other pets with mobility issues.

Cons

The product can be expensive and may require multiple coats or extra quarts to achieve full coverage.

The paint may take longer to cure than expected and may not dry or cure appropriately in cooler climates.

Valspar 1505 Interior and Exterior Latex Porch & Floor Enamel

Features

The Valspar 1505 is an Interior and Exterior Latex Porch & Floor Enamel.

It comes in a 1-quart can and is available in a Clear Base color.

The finish type is Satin, offering a low-luster enamel surface that endures variable weather conditions.

This enamel paint is 100% acrylic latex, making it durable and long-lasting.

The Valspar 1505 is ideal for porches, floors, decks, basements, patios, siding, trim, furniture, and trellises.

It can be used on surfaces that have been properly prepped, primed, and painted.

The paint covers 300–400 square feet on smooth surfaces, while on uneven surfaces, it covers 200–300 square feet.

It is waterproof, making it suitable for exterior applications.

The product is available in a single can.

The product follows Amazon’s Voluntary 30-Day Return Guarantee policy.

Pros

Provides a durable finish that resists chipping and peeling.

Easy to apply with a brush or roller.

Dries quickly.

Offers good coverage and hides imperfections.

Suitable for both interior and exterior use.

Comes in a range of colors.

Affordable price point.

Cons

Can be prone to bubbling or cracking if not applied properly.

Some users have reported a strong odor during application.

May require multiple coats for full coverage.

Not ideal for surfaces with heavy foot traffic or exposure to extreme weather conditions.

INSL-X Tough Shield Floor and Patio Paint

Features

Acrylic enamel that is waterborne and designed for a tough, long-lasting finish with good resistance to abrasion.

resists scrubbing, detergents, oils, and greases.

Excellent wearing properties and resists ponding water.

suitable for outdoor or interior floor paint on masonry, concrete, and wood surfaces.

produces a tough, abrasion- and weather-resistant satin finish.

Ideal for both home and light commercial floor applications.

Not recommended for use on garage floors or car parking surfaces.

Provides 350-450 square feet of coverage per gallon.

Can be applied when surface and air temperatures are above 50 °F (10 °C).

Comes with a 1-gallon can of paint, a stir stick, and a can opener.

Suitable for use on wood surfaces.

Before painting, review the INSL-X Tough Shield label for proper preparation and application tips.

Can be returned within 30 days of delivery, subject to certain conditions.

Pros

Provides a tough and durable finish.

Covers well with one coat, saving time and money.

Comes in a variety of colors, with a nice satin to semi-gloss finish.

Works well on a variety of surfaces, including floors, patios, and decks.

Easy to apply with a roller or sprayer.

Packaging is secure and individually boxed to prevent damage during shipping.

Cons

The acrylic formula can corrode the steel can it comes in, potentially causing leaks and spills.

Can be challenging to paint intricate areas, such as balusters, with a brush.

Some users have reported issues with the finish fading or chipping over time.

A bit more expensive compared to other floor paints on the market.

How To Paint Your Exterior Wood Columns? A Step-By-Step Guide

Painting your exterior wood columns is a great way to spruce up the look of your home’s exterior. With the right tools and techniques, you can easily complete this project independently. Follow these steps to achieve a professional-looking finish:

Step 1: Prepare the Area

Remove any furniture or decorations near the columns to create more space to work.

Lay down a drop cloth or plastic sheeting to protect the ground from paint splatters.

This will help prevent any damage to your property and make cleanup easier.

Use painter’s tape to cover any areas near the columns that you don’t want to get paint on, such as windows, doors, or trim.

This will ensure that the paint only goes where it’s supposed to and will make your job look more professional.

Make sure that the area is well-ventilated to allow for proper drying time and prevent any fumes from building up.

Tools Required

Painter’s tape
Drop cloth or plastic sheeting

Step 2: Clean the Columns

Use a soft-bristled brush to sweep away any dirt or debris from the columns.

Prepare a solution of warm water and mild soap in a bucket.

Dip the brush in soapy water and scrub the columns thoroughly.

Make sure to clean all areas, including crevices and corners.

Rinse the columns with clean water using a hose or pressure washer (if available) to remove any soap residue.

Allow the columns to dry completely before proceeding to the next step.

Tools Required

Soft-bristled brush

Bucket
Mild soap or detergent
Hose or pressure washer (optional)

Step 3: Sand the Columns

Attach the sandpaper to a sanding block to make it easier to hold and control.

Begin sanding the columns, working in the direction of the grain.

Apply even pressure and use long, smooth strokes.

Continue sanding until the surface of the columns is smooth and any rough spots or imperfections are removed.

Use a clean, dry cloth to wipe away any sanding dust from the columns.

Ensure that all the dust is removed, as it can affect the finish of the paint.

Tools Required

120-grit sandpaper
Sanding block
Clean, dry cloth

Step 4: Apply Paint

Stir the paint thoroughly with a stir stick before pouring it into the paint tray.

Using a paintbrush or roller, apply the paint to the columns in smooth, even strokes.

Start at the top and work your way down.

Make sure to cover the entire surface of the column, including any crevices or details.

Allow the first coat to dry completely before applying a second coat.

If you’re using a roller, use a brush to get into any hard-to-reach areas or corners.

Let the final coat dry completely before removing the painter’s tape and drop cloth.

Tools Required

Exterior wood paint
Paintbrush or roller

Paint tray
Stir stick

Step 5: Apply Primer

Once the paint has dried completely, you can apply the primer to the columns.

Use a paintbrush or roller to apply the primer, making sure to cover the entire surface evenly.

Let the primer dry according to the manufacturer’s instructions before applying the next coat of paint.

Depending on the type of primer you use, you may need to sand the surface lightly before applying the next coat of paint.

Tools Required

Paintbrush or roller
Primer

Step 6: Clean Up

Remove the painter’s tape and drop cloths carefully to avoid spreading any leftover paint.

Clean your brushes, rollers, and any other tools used for painting with warm water and soap.

If using oil-based paint, use mineral spirits or paint thinner to clean your tools.

Dispose of any leftover or empty paint cans according to local regulations.

Tools Required

Warm water and soap or mineral spirits/paint thinner
Cleaning rags or paper towels
Trash bag for disposing of paint cans and other waste

By following these steps and taking the time to prepare and prime your exterior wood columns properly, you can achieve a beautiful, long-lasting paint job that will enhance the look of your home.

Additional Maintenance Tips For Your Exterior Paint

Your home’s exterior paint is not only for aesthetic purposes but also serves as protection against weathering and damage. To keep it looking great and functioning well, here are some additional DIY maintenance tips to consider.

Regularly Inspect your Paint

Every six months, take a close look at your exterior paint for any signs of wear and tear. Check for any chipping, peeling, or fading, and address any issues you find as soon as possible.

Wash the Exterior

Dirt and grime can build up on your exterior over time, making your paint look dull and faded. To keep your exterior looking fresh, give it a good wash every year. You can use a pressure washer or a bucket of soapy water and a soft-bristle brush to clean your exterior.

Trim your Landscaping

Trees and bushes can rub up against your exterior and cause damage to your paint. Keep your landscaping trimmed back and away from your exterior to prevent any scratches or scrapes.

Fix any Leaks

Leaks can cause water damage to your exterior paint, leading to peeling and fading. Keep an eye out for any leaks around your home, and address them as soon as possible.

Maintain your Gutters

Clogged gutters can cause water to overflow onto your exterior, which can damage your paint. Ensure your gutters are clear of debris and functioning properly to prevent water damage.

Remove Mildew

Mildew can grow on the surface of your exterior paint, causing it to discolor and deteriorate. Use a mixture of water and bleach to remove mildew, being careful to protect your skin and eyes.

Touch-Up Paint

If you notice any small areas of damage or discoloration, use touch-up paint to address the issue. This will help to prevent further damage and keep your exterior looking fresh.

Bottom Line

In conclusion, choosing the right paint for your exterior wood columns is crucial for maintaining the beauty and durability of your home’s facade.

By considering factors such as weather resistance, color options, and ease of application, you can confidently select the perfect paint for your project.

With the tips and knowledge gained from this ultimate guide, you can now embark on your painting journey with confidence, knowing that you have the tools to make your exterior wood columns a stunning addition to your home’s curb appeal.

Happy painting!

FAQ

What kind of paint do you use on outdoor columns?

When it comes to outdoor columns, both latex- and oil-based paints are suitable for fiberglass columns.

If you’re painting concrete columns, opt for paving paint. A combination of primer and paint products is ideal for wooden porch pillars, which many porch paint products offer.

By choosing the right type of paint, you can ensure that your columns are protected from the elements and look great for years to come.

What is the longest lasting exterior paint?

According to experts, acrylic paint is the longest-lasting exterior paint option available in the market.

It is known to resist damage caused by weather and other natural variables, making it ideal for homes in regions with extreme temperatures.

Additionally, it is great at preventing fading or damage caused by sun exposure.

How do you make wood 100% waterproof?

While it’s not possible to make wood 100% waterproof, there are steps you can take to increase its water resistance significantly.

The best way to do this is by applying a sealant to the wood. Sealants are designed to protect surfaces from a range of damage, including water damage.

Polyurethane sealers are the most common type of wood sealer and can provide excellent protection against moisture. Other sealant options include epoxy sealers, varnishes, and lacquers.

Applying multiple coats of sealant and reapplying it periodically can further improve the wood’s water resistance.

Additionally, you can choose to use pressure-treated wood, which has been chemically treated to resist water and rot.