Interior vs. Exterior Painting – What You Need to Know Before You Start

When it comes to refreshing your home with a fresh coat of paint, interior and exterior painting are two very different projects—each with its own techniques, paint types, prep work, and challenges. Whether you’re updating a living room or protecting your siding, knowing the difference can save you time, money, and a lot of headaches.

The Art of Interior Painting

Interior painting is all about atmosphere and aesthetics. The colors you choose set the tone for your home’s personality—warm neutrals for comfort, cool blues for calm, or bold colors to energize a space. But it’s not just about looks.

Paint type matters

Interior paints are formulated to be low-VOC (low in harmful chemicals), with finishes that can resist scuffs, stains, and frequent cleaning.

Surface prep is key

Smooth walls, patching holes, sanding, and priming are crucial to getting that clean, professional look.

Lighting changes everything

Natural light versus artificial light can completely transform how a color appears. Always test samples on the actual walls.

Painting inside your home is like composing a scene on a canvas measured, detailed, and personal.

The Challenge of Exterior Painting

Exterior painting is a different beast—it’s about protection first, and beauty second. Your home’s exterior battles weather, sun, moisture, and time. That’s why exterior paint needs to be tough.

Durability comes first

Paints must resist UV rays, rain, mildew, and temperature changes. They often contain more resin to stand up to the elements.

Proper prep is essential

Pressure washing, scraping off old paint, sanding, caulking gaps, and priming are necessary steps to ensure paint bonds properly.

Timing matters

You can’t paint when it’s too hot, too cold, or too humid. Dry, mild weather is best for outdoor projects.

Painting the outside of your home is more like weatherproofing a ship—it must be strong, precise, and built to endure.

So, Which One Comes First?

If you’re doing both interior and exterior projects, experts often recommend starting with the exterior, especially in spring or fall when the weather is more predictable. Interior painting can be done year-round and is less affected by outside conditions.