What type of paint holds up best on exterior wood siding here in Vancouver with all the rain?

For Vancouver's relentless rain and high humidity, a 100% acrylic latex paint is the best choice for exterior wood siding. Acrylic latex excels in our climate because it forms a flexible, breathable film that expands and contracts with temperature changes without cracking. This breathability is crucial — it allows trapped moisture to escape from within the wood rather than blistering the paint from underneath, which is the number one cause of exterior paint failure in the Lower Mainland.

Avoid oil-based exterior paints on siding in our climate. While they were once the standard, they become brittle over time and do not flex with the wood as it absorbs and releases moisture through our wet and dry seasons. They also tend to chalk and fade faster under our conditions.

A flat or matte finish hides surface imperfections on older siding, while a satin finish offers better washability and moisture resistance. For Vancouver homes, satin is often the best compromise between appearance and performance. Expect to pay $55 to $95 per gallon for a premium exterior acrylic paint.

Prep work is everything with exterior wood. Scrape and sand any loose or peeling paint, fill cracks and nail holes, and apply a quality exterior wood primer to any bare wood. If your siding has cedar bleed — those dark tannin stains common on BC cedar — use a stain-blocking primer before your topcoat.

Consider scheduling a consultation with a local painter who can assess your siding condition and recommend the best prep and paint system for your home's specific exposure to weather.

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