Best Interior & Exterior House Paint of 2026

Howard Chester Avatar
Howard Chester
Last Updated: Jan 15, 2025

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Interior and exterior house paint is an essential tool for any homeowner looking to give their home a fresh new look. These paints come in a variety of colors and finishes, allowing homeowners to customize their homes to their liking. Interior paint is specifically designed for use on walls, ceilings, and other indoor surfaces, while exterior paint is formulated to withstand the elements and protect the outside of a home. With the right paint and application techniques, homeowners can transform the look and feel of their homes, adding value and curb appeal in the process.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Rust-Oleum Painter's Touch Enamel Paint Cover #TOP 1
Rust-Oleum Painter's Touch Enamel Paint
ftb score rating icon 9.9
Rust-Oleum Protective Enamel Paint Cover #TOP 2
Rust-Oleum Protective Enamel Paint
ftb score rating icon 9.8
KILZ 1-Part Epoxy Acrylic Concrete and Garage Floor Paint Cover #TOP 3
KILZ 1-Part Epoxy Acrylic Concrete and Garage Floor Paint
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Interior & Exterior House Paint

#TOP 1

Rust-Oleum Painter's Touch Enamel Paint

1993502
Semi Gloss White
Rust-Oleum Painter's Touch Enamel Paint Cover
Rust-Oleum 1993502 Painter's Touch Brush Multi-Purpose Enamel Paint, 1 Quarts (Pack of 1), Semi-Gloss White, 32 Fl Oz

Rust-Oleum Painter's Touch Enamel Paint is a versatile interior and exterior house paint that can be used on a variety of surfaces including wood, metal, plaster, masonry, and unglazed ceramic. Its water-based acrylic formula is low odor and provides long-lasting protection against chips. With a coverage of up to 120 sq ft, this paint dries to touch in just 30 minutes, allowing for quick project completion. The semi-gloss finish provides a soft shine and excellent hide, giving surfaces a smooth and polished look. Before application, it is recommended to sand the surfaces and wash with a degreaser for optimal results.

What We Like
Excellent coverage
True to color
Low odor
Easy application
Self-leveling finish
What We Don't Like
Small container size
Runny consistency
#TOP 2

Rust-Oleum Protective Enamel Paint

7786502
Gloss Smoke Gray
Rust-Oleum Protective Enamel Paint Cover
Rust-Oleum 7786502 Protective Enamel Paint Stops Rust, 32-Ounce, Gloss Smoke Gray, 1 Quarts (Pack of 1)

Rust-Oleum Enamel Paint is designed to protect both indoor and outdoor surfaces. Its weather and corrosion-resistant formula ensures that your wood, metal, and concrete surfaces stay safe from the elements. With an oil-based composition, it provides a tough barrier against rust, giving you peace of mind. You will appreciate how quickly it dries, typically within 2-4 hours, allowing you to finish your projects without long waits. The paint also covers a generous area of up to 90 square feet, making it efficient for larger tasks.

What We Like
Durability against elements
Smooth, professional finish
Great coverage on surfaces
Fast drying time
What We Don't Like
Requires multiple coats
Slightly thinner consistency
#TOP 3

KILZ 1-Part Epoxy Acrylic Concrete and Garage Floor Paint

L377711
Slate Gray
KILZ 1-Part Epoxy Acrylic Concrete and Garage Floor Paint Cover
KILZ 1-Part Epoxy Acrylic Concrete and Garage Floor Paint, Interior/Exterior, Satin, Slate Gray, 1 Gallon

KILZ Concrete Floor Paint is a highly durable and easy-to-clean paint designed for both interior and exterior use. It is formulated to resist scuffing, fading, cracking, and blistering, making it ideal for high-traffic areas like garages, basements, driveways, and porches. This water-based paint is resistant to staining and damage from chemicals, oil, and gasoline, ensuring long-lasting performance. The satin finish provides a smooth and even application on both coated and uncoated concrete, masonry, stone, and brick surfaces. With a quick drying time of 2 hours to touch and 4 hours for recoating, this paint offers convenience and efficiency. With coverage of up to 500 square feet on smooth surfaces and 400 square feet on rough surfaces, KILZ Concrete Floor Paint is a reliable choice for any concrete flooring project.

What We Like
Easy application process
Excellent coverage
Beautiful finish
Effective oil stain prevention
Durable with proper prep
What We Don't Like
Peeling with standing water
Some adhesion issues reported
#TOP 4

Rust-Oleum 369384 Satin Door Paint

369384
Satin White
Rust-Oleum 369384 Satin Door Paint Cover
Rust-Oleum 369384 Advanced Dry Door & Trim Paint, Quart, Satin White

Rust-Oleum Satin Door Paint is a convenient, pre-mixed option for refreshing your interior or exterior surfaces. This water-based formula not only reduces unpleasant odors but also resists fading, ensuring a vibrant finish that lasts. You’ll appreciate that it dries quickly, taking just 45 minutes to the touch, which is significantly faster than traditional oil-based paints. Plus, its durable, chip-resistant coating offers excellent protection while enhancing your home’s curb appeal. Available in six attractive colors, this paint allows you to achieve the perfect look for your doors and trim.

What We Like
Excellent coverage
Quick drying time
Low odor formula
Durable finish
Easy application
What We Don't Like
Requires multiple coats
May need primer for best results
#TOP 5

Glidden Barn and Fence Paint

00378882
White
Glidden Barn and Fence Paint Cover
Glidden Latex Paint, Barn and Fence, 4098F/01, Flat, Exterior, 1 gal, White

Glidden Exterior Paint is a ready-to-use solution for your outdoor projects. With a durable flat finish, it dries quickly in just 30 minutes, allowing you to recoat in an hour. This feature is perfect for those who want to complete their painting tasks efficiently. You’ll appreciate the excellent hiding power, covering up to 400 square feet per gallon, which means fewer coats and less time spent painting. It protects a variety of surfaces, including wood, metal, and concrete, making it versatile for any outdoor need. Plus, cleanup is a breeze with just soap and water.

What We Like
Great price
Easy application
Good coverage
Quick clean-up
Durable in weather
What We Don't Like
Inconsistent delivery
Occasional leakage
#TOP 6

Giani Brick Transformations Whitewashed Kit

Brick Transformations
White
Giani Brick Transformations Whitewashed Kit Cover
Giani Brick Transformations Kit- Whitewashed

The Giani Whitewashed Kit is perfect for refreshing your home decor with minimal effort. You can easily brighten up spaces like fireplaces or exposed brick walls, transforming them into stunning focal points. The kit provides a straightforward paint and water mixture, taking the guesswork out of the process. Its specially designed formula adheres well to brick, ensuring that the vibrant color lasts. With everything you need included, you can achieve a beautiful makeover in just one morning or afternoon.

What We Like
Easy to use
Transformative results
Good coverage
Includes all necessary materials
Fast drying time
What We Don't Like
Missing brush and stir stick
May require extra paint
#TOP 7

KILZ Low-Lustre Porch & Patio Paint

L573711
Slate Gray
KILZ Low-Lustre Porch & Patio Paint Cover
KILZ Low-Lustre Enamel Porch & Patio Latex Floor Paint, Interior/Exterior, Slate Gray, 1 Gallon

KILZ Patio Paint is a versatile 100% acrylic latex option that delivers a tough, long-lasting finish suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. Its advanced formula provides a low-lustre enamel surface, perfect for enduring various weather conditions on your deck, porch, or patio. This paint also offers moisture resistance, helping to prevent scuffing, fading, cracking, and peeling. With superior coverage, one gallon can cover up to 400 square feet on smooth surfaces, making it an efficient choice for your projects. Plus, it dries quickly, allowing you to recoat within hours.

What We Like
Beautiful color options
Easy application with sprayer
Great coverage with one coat
Durable and long-lasting finish
Quick drying time
What We Don't Like
Color may differ from expectations
Initial transparency while drying
#TOP 8

Zinsser PERMA-WHITE Mold & Mildew Proof Paint

2774
White
Zinsser PERMA-WHITE Mold & Mildew Proof Paint Cover
Zinsser 02774 PERMA-WHITE Mold & Mildew Proof Interior Paint, Quart, Eggshell White

Zinsser PERMA-WHITE Paint offers a self-priming formula, allowing you to skip the sanding process, which saves you time and effort. This paint is designed to resist mold and mildew, ensuring your walls stay fresh and clean for up to five years. Its durable finish can withstand dirt and moisture, making it perfect for high-traffic areas. Additionally, the washable surface means you can easily scrub away stains with just soap and water, keeping your home looking its best with minimal maintenance.

What We Like
Easy application
Good coverage
Durable over time
Nice color options
Low odor
What We Don't Like
Flat finish requires gloss coat
Quart size may limit projects
#TOP 9

Rust-Oleum Painter's Touch Latex Paint

1976730
Flat Black
Pack of 1
Rust-Oleum Painter's Touch Latex Paint Cover
Rust-Oleum 1976730 Painter's Touch Latex Paint, Half Pint, Flat Black, 8 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)

Rust-Oleum Painter's Touch Latex Paint is perfect for both indoor and outdoor projects, including wood, metal, plaster, masonry, or unglazed ceramic surfaces. Its water-based acrylic formula is low odor, chip-resistant, and provides long-lasting protection. With a flat finish, it minimizes surface imperfections, goes on smoothly, and offers excellent hiding. Sand surfaces with 180/200 grit sandpaper and wash with degreaser before painting. This paint covers up to 30 sq ft and dries to the touch in just 30 minutes.

What We Like
Easy application
Quick drying
Great matte finish
Good coverage
No strong odor
What We Don't Like
Requires surface preparation
#TOP 10

KILZ Basement Waterproofing Paint

239041
White
KILZ Basement Waterproofing Paint Cover
KILZ Basement and Masonry Waterproofing Paint, Interior/Exterior, White, 1 Gallon

KILZ Waterproofing Paint is designed to protect both interior and exterior surfaces from moisture damage. This advanced paint uses nanotechnology to create a strong barrier that prevents water from seeping in, making it ideal for porous materials like concrete and masonry. By applying this paint, you ensure a long-lasting finish that resists damage from alkaline substances. It’s easy to apply on various surfaces, including basement and retaining walls, enhancing the durability of your home while providing a decorative look. With quick drying times, you can get your project done efficiently.

What We Like
Effective waterproofing
Easy application
Low odor
Durable finish
Great value
What We Don't Like
Requires multiple coats
Needs mixing before use
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What kind of paint is used for both interior and exterior?

Water-based paints can be used for both interior and exterior surfaces. These paints can be customized with pigments to add color and special additives to provide different effects such as water-resistance, UV-resistance, or increased durability.

2. Can I use interior paint on the exterior of my house?

Using interior paint on the exterior of your house is not recommended. Interior paint is not formulated to withstand outdoor elements, and it can quickly deteriorate, leading to cracking, blistering, bubbling, and peeling of the paint.

3. Is it OK to mix interior and exterior paint?

It is possible to mix interior and exterior paints, but it is important to consider the differences between them. Exterior paint contains higher levels of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which can be harmful when used indoors. Therefore, it is best to use interior and exterior paint separately for their respective applications.

4. Should exterior paint be semi gloss or flat?

For large areas of the home, such as siding, it is advisable to use less glossy paints like flat (matte) or satin/eggshell finishes. These finishes help to minimize the appearance of imperfections on the surface and provide a more even and uniform look.

5. How long will interior latex paint last outside?

Interior latex paint is not designed for long-term outdoor use. It may start showing signs of wear and deterioration within a few months to a year when exposed to outdoor elements. It is recommended to use exterior paint specifically formulated for exterior surfaces.

6. Does exterior house paint need two coats?

While it is possible to apply only one coat of exterior paint if the surface is in good condition, it is generally recommended to apply two coats. Two coats provide better coverage, durability, and protection against weathering. If budget allows, applying two coats is the preferred option.

Editor's Notes

During our interior & exterior house paint research, we found 24 interior & exterior house paint products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 212,026 customer reviews through our big data system to write the interior & exterior house paint list. We found that most customers choose interior & exterior house paint with an average price of $27.45.

The interior & exterior house paint are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of interior & exterior house paint, including Rust-Oleum, KILZ, Glidden, Giani. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 385 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Howard Chester Avatar

Howard Chester is an architect from New York who holds a master's degree in architectural design, his passions for interior design and home improvement contribute to his extensive knowledge of all things furniture and home goods. Howard Chester Specializes in various architectural and interior design projects. He often publishes articles related to decoration on key websites and interior design magazines.

Interior & Exterior House Paint Comparison Table

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#TOP3
#TOP4
#TOP5
#TOP6
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#TOP8
#TOP9
#TOP10
Brand Rust-Oleum Rust-Oleum KILZ Rust-Oleum Glidden Giani KILZ Rust-Oleum Rust-Oleum KILZ
Color Semi Gloss White Gloss Smoke Gray Slate Gray Satin White White White Slate Gray White Flat Black White
Size 1 Quarts (Pack of 1) 32 Fl Oz (Pack of 1) 128 Fl Oz (Pack of 1) 32 Fl Oz (Pack of 1) 128 Fl Oz (Pack of 1) 16 Fl Oz (Pack of 1) 128 Fl Oz (Pack of 1) 31.5 Fl Oz (Pack of 1) Pack of 1 128 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)
Item Volume 946 Milliliters 1442966.09 Milliliters 128 Fluid Ounces 32 Fluid Ounces 1 Gallons 16 Fluid Ounces 128 Fluid Ounces 1000 Milliliters 236.59 Milliliters 1 Gallons
Special Feature Low odor, Fade Resistant, Chip Resistant rust-resistant Crack Resistant, Fade Resistant Mildew Resistant, Fade Resistant, Chip Resistant Ready Mixed Non Toxic Crack Resistant, Mildew Resistant, Fade Resistant Mold & Mildew Resistant Low odor, Fade, Chip Resistant Waterproof, Mildew Resistant
Unit Count 32.0 Fluid Ounces 32.0 Fluid Ounces 128.0 Fluid Ounces 32.0 Fluid Ounces 128.0 Fluid Ounces 16.0 Fluid Ounces 128.0 Fluid Ounces 31.5 Fluid Ounces 8.0 Fluid Ounces 128.0 Fluid Ounces
Paint Type Acrylic Enamel Epoxy Acrylic Acrylic Acrylic Acrylic Watercolor Acrylic Water based
Specific Uses For Product Interior/Exterior Interior/Exterior Interior/Exterior Interior/Exterior Exterior Interior Interior/Exterior Interior Interior/Exterior Interior/Exterior
Surface Recommendation Wood ?Masonry,Metal,Wood Concrete, Masonry Wood Concrete/Masonry, Ferrous Metal, Fiber Cement, Wood Brick Floors Indoor Ceramic,Masonry,Metal,Wood Masonry
Finish Type Semi-Gloss Semi-Gloss Satin Satin Matte Matte Satin Flat - Flatt / Matte
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.9
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.6
ftb score rating icon 9.4
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.1
ftb score rating icon 9.0
ftb score rating icon 9.0
ftb score rating icon 8.9
ftb score rating icon 8.8
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