If you’re considering painting the exterior of your house, you’re probably facing a range of questions. What’s the best type of paint? Which one will last the longest? If you live in an area with heavy rainfall or near a forest where bird droppings accumulate, you might be wondering which paint can handle these challenges. With so many options available in the market, it can be overwhelming to make the right choice. Today, I’ll help you make an informed decision, especially focusing on Asian Paints’ various products that cater to different needs and budgets.
Understanding Exterior Paint Options
As we kick off this series on Asian Paints, I’ll address all your concerns, from cost to life expectancy, weather resistance, and finish quality. By the end of this guide, you’ll have a clearer understanding of which paint works best for your home’s exterior. Let’s begin!
1. Ace Series (Affordable Option)
First up is the Ace Series, a budget-friendly option ideal for rental properties, stores, and shops. The Ace range includes four variants: Ace Spark, Ace Exterior Emulsion, Ace Advantage, and Ace Shyne. Let’s dive into the specifics of each.
- Ace Spark
This paint typically comes in a 20L bucket, costing around ₹2400-₹2600. It provides coverage of 80-100 sq.ft. per liter with two coats, and is not weatherproof. The finish is not particularly smooth, earning a rating of 2/10. It also lacks anti-fungal properties, meaning fungal growth may occur over time. However, it is peeling-resistant and lasts about 1.5 years. - Ace Exterior Emulsion
An enhanced version of Ace Spark, this paint is also priced around ₹2400-₹2600 for a 20L bucket. It provides similar coverage and is more weather-resistant (30%) but not ideal for heavy rain regions. Its finish is still not top-notch (2/10), and it lacks anti-fungal properties. The lifespan is slightly better at 2 years, and it is also peeling-resistant. - Ace Advantage & Ace Shyne
Both these paints offer slight improvements in terms of durability, with Ace Advantage offering minimal water resistance. Ace Shyne, on the other hand, gives a shinier finish (rated 5/10), with more than 1600 shades available. These paints are suitable if you’re looking for something with a little extra shine, but for the best balance of cost and performance, Ace Emulsion is recommended.
2. Apex Series (Mid-Range, Better Performance)
For those looking for a mid-range option with better performance, the Apex Series is a great choice. I personally use these on many of my projects, and they deliver excellent results.
- Apex Dust Proof Emulsion
Priced around ₹4000-₹4700 for a 20L bucket, this paint is ideal for homes and commercial spaces. It offers 80 sq.ft. coverage with two coats and is weatherproof, which makes it suitable for more humid or rainy areas. The finish is much better (7/10), and it is anti-fungal and stain-resistant. This paint has a lifespan of 4-5 years and is UV-protected, meaning it won’t easily deteriorate from sun exposure. - Apex Dust Proof Advance & Shyne
These variants offer additional shine, and if you prefer a glossy look, you can opt for the Apex Dust Proof Advance & Shyne. The rest of the properties are similar to the standard Apex Dust Proof Emulsion, but the added shine elevates the overall finish.
3. Apex Ultima Series (Premium Option)
For those with a higher budget, the Apex Ultima Series is the way to go. This premium range provides top-quality performance and durability, ideal for homes in areas with extreme weather conditions.
- Apex Ultima
This paint is priced between ₹6300-₹6700 for a 20L bucket. It offers excellent weather resistance and provides coverage similar to the other paints (80 sq.ft. per liter with two coats). The finish is rated 8/10, and it is both anti-fungal and dirt-resistant. It has a lifespan of 6-7 years and is UV-protected, ensuring that it won’t fade from sun exposure. - Apex Ultima Protect
The next step up in the Apex Ultima series, this paint is priced between ₹7500-₹7800 for a 20L bucket. It is perfect for areas with heavy rainfall, offering better protection against the elements. The finish is excellent, and it’s anti-fungal, dirt-resistant, and UV-protected. Its lifespan is 10 years, and it includes crack-bridging ability, which helps it stretch instead of cracking, making it ideal for weak plaster or structures. - Apex Ultima Protect Lamino & Duralife
If you have a large budget and want the absolute best, I would recommend Apex Ultima Protect Duralife. Priced at ₹10,000-₹11,000 for a 20L bucket, this paint offers the best protection against weather, dirt, and fungal growth. It also features a protective plastic layer ability, which means that rainwater will slide off the surface without affecting the paint. This series can last up to 15 years, making it one of the most durable options available.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right exterior paint for your home depends on several factors: budget, weather conditions, and desired longevity. Here’s a quick breakdown:
- Budget-friendly: Ace Series (Ace Spark, Ace Exterior Emulsion)
- Mid-range, good performance: Apex Dust Proof Emulsion
- High-end, top quality: Apex Ultima Series (Apex Ultima Protect, Apex Ultima Protect Duralife)
Remember, the right paint can significantly enhance the appearance and longevity of your home’s exterior, so choose wisely based on your needs and environment.
