If you’re wondering what the differences are between the two paint types barn vs exterior, this complete guide can help you out.
Barn paint and exterior dye have many of the same uses, but there are key differences you need to know. Find out everything you need to know below!
Barn Paint Vs Exterior House Paint - Key Differences
1. Types of Paint (water-based or oil-based)
Both paint come in either water based or oil based varieties. Water based barn paints or interior paint sheens have less peeling and cracking than oil based barn paints. Despite less cracking, water-based paint is still considered to be weaker than oil-based barn paint.
Oil-based paints are more durable and more impermeable and are considered to be some of the most heavy-duty paints.
A professional painter can recommend what kind of paint to use or choose one for you if you allow them. However, most people choose oil-based paint film even though it’s a little more expensive.
2. Surfaces
Barn paint was originally created for barns, so it's primarily used on bare wood surfaces and surface temperature. Raw and vulnerable, the bare wood exposed yearns for the protection of a nurturing touch.
If loose wood fibers are pulled onto the tape, the wood surface is not sound and additional preparation. Remove mill glaze and/or loose wood fibers, dirt and other debris.
Proper surface preparation is required Remove stains caused by mold and mildew with a mold and mildew stain removing product. Previously painted, stained or clear sealed wood Sand all glossy surfaces. You can use it on other surfaces depending on the kind and the brand you use.
Always check the can or the manufacturer label to see if they recommend certain surfaces for it to be painted on or if it can be used on surfaces other than wood surface. Exterior painting efforts can be used on metal roofs, plastic, or other materials that are commonly used to build homes.
3. Viscosity
Both paints have high viscosity and are generally the right thickness they need to be for the painting on exterior walls or interior walls of exterior outdoor living homes and barns. This means you can use it right from the can without needing to make changes.
If you want thinner coats of paint, though, you might need to use mineral oil or another method to make the paint thinner. In general, most people don't choose to thin the paint unless they have experience with this and they know how or why they need to thin the paint.
4. Coverage
A gallon of exterior dye will usually cover about 250 to 400 square feet of surface area with one coat. Barn paint will cover about 250 square feet per gallon. A 5-gallon container of paint will cover 1250 square feet.
The exact amount of coverage will depend on the brand you are using and how you apply the paint. Darker colors may need more coats to make them look smooth surfaces.
5. Durability
Both types of paints have greater exterior surfaces durability because they are meant to be used outside where they are facing environmental elements. In general, though, exterior dye lasts longer if you buy a good brand and use oil-based rather than water-based. This paint also has to be redone less often.
The exact exterior furniture durability will depend on where you live, though, and the environmental elements that come into play around your home or barn.
The BEHR Process Corporation guarantees satisfaction with this paint's performance when applied to a well-prepared surface and cared for according to the directions on the label.
Behr Paint or Behr premium paint reserves the right to inspect any and all application of the product prior to processing your claim made under this warranty.
6. Weather Resistance
Both paints have similar qualities when it comes to weather resistance. Both paints are meant to be used outdoors, facing weather elements and harsh environmental conditions.
Barn paints are cheaper, though, so many people choose to use barn paints to save costs when repainting their home or barn.
Exterior siding paint is a little more weather resistant than barn paint, though, and might be a better choice if you want fewer touch-ups or if you want the paint job to last longer.
7. Colors
When you think of painting a barn, some traditional colors probably come to mind. Most people choose to paint their barns in red, black, or brown.
Barn paint usually comes in these colors, but you might be able to find other colors in some stores. You can always choose something non-traditional if you want.
Advanced exterior paint combining many more colors like white and pastel colours than barn fence paint (barn and fence), and you are free to paint the house in any color you want unless your neighborhood or city requires specific colors. Keep a wet edge to reduce lapping and help control colour uniformity.

8. Finish
The finish will depend on whether you are using water-based or oil-based. Oil-based paints generally have a glossier and smoother finish.
Exterior paints come in a larger variety of finishes, though, because you can get matte, satin, eggshell, semi gloss enamel sheen, and glossy surfaces. Flat sheen has a non-reflective finish that touches up well and hides minor surface imperfections.
Barn paints don't come in these finishes; you will usually only be able to find glossy and matte. The finish you choose will depend on where you live and how discrete or non-discrete you want your home or barn to be. It also depends on whether you are using high quality airless sprayer or not.
9. Toxicity
Most barn paints are made to be non-toxic to animals since they are used on barns where animals are being kept.
Some exterior pigments are non-toxic, but it depends on the brand and the type you have. If you want to apply exteriorglaze on a barn or where animals are going to be located, make sure you check the ingredients and ensure none of them are toxic.
10. Price
Barn paint is usually cheaper than exterior dye, partly because the quality is inferior. Barn paints can be less durable than exterior pigment, but many people choose to use them because they are cheaper and come in basic colors that look nice at homes.
They also have better clarity and vibrancy, which can make your barn or home look beautiful. You can also apply them to wood without needing to use a primer.
Remember to check fence paint warranty before buying. Any consequential or incidental damages, whether as a result of a breach of express or implied warranty, strict liability, negligence, or any other legal theory.
Barn Paint Overview
Barn paint can be water-based or oiled based. It can be used on exterior wooden surfaces or metal and plastic cladded buildings.
Despite its name, it does not have to be used solely on barns or on wood. You can also apply barn paint to surfaces that have been painted before, which makes this paint very versatile.
This type of paint is tough and durable and uses a protective coating that makes sure the color is retained for years and years to come.

Exterior House Paint Overview
Exterior paint is different than interior paint because it’s specially formulated to withstand environmental factors like mildew and fading. This type of paint can be water-based or oil-based. You might also need to use a paint primer when you are painting the outside of your house.
Exterior dye is meant to last because it needs to stay intact even through rain and snow. Many people choose to use acrylic latex exterior paint sheens set because it is flexible and breathable. A medium satin enamel sheen and medium eggshell enamel sheen creates a pearl-like finish that's durable and dirt-resistant.

Can You Use Barn Paint On A House?
Yes, you can paint a house with barn paints. You can use this paint to paint a number of exterior surfaces, including homes, garages, barns, and barn fence paint red.
Many people choose to use barn paint rather than exterior dye because it is much cheaper. However, you will find that your solid color wood stain will be significantly reduced to become transparent wood stain.
Using this paint can be a much more economical way to paint your home or another outdoor surface you have that needs painting.
Barn Vs Exterior Paints FAQs
How long does barn paint last?
How long paint lasts depends on different factors, however, latex and acrylic barn paints typically last about 5 years. Oil-based paints last about 10 years. Some of the newer brands have pure linseed oil barn paint, which can last 15 years or more, but they are more expensive.
How long will a good exterior dye job last?
A good exterior dye job will last about 5-10 years. The exact time frame depends on what company you use for the painting, though, and what kind of paint you use.
Do you need a primer with barn paint?
If you are applying barn paint to wood, you do not need to use a primer since the paint is meant to go on wood. If you are using it on a surface other than wood, you might need a primer to achieve the desired results.
Conclusion
Barn and exterior dye are great outdoor paints to use when you have a new exterior project siding or wood stain project you want to complete.
They can be used in many similar ways and are both durable and weather resistant.