Expert: Dan Griffin - 11/12/2008

Question
QUESTION: Which is better to waterproof a home? The paint contractor that I am about to hire said he will use any product I want.
He said he does not recommend elastomeric because he doesn't think it is as good as luxon.
What product is best to use on the exterior of a home in Central Florida.
Thank you.

ANSWER: I am not familiar with Luxon, thugh I saw one reference to it as an elastomeric paint.

I have had very good experience using elastomeric paint on steel, aluminum, and block.  All paints are very subject to surface preparation.  Go to the best commercial paint store in your town, not Lowes or HD.  Ask to talk with the owner or manager.  Discuss the issues with him/her.  Discuss vapor issues, ability to last, etc.  My dad lives in Ocala, they repaint HOA every 3-5 years with latex exterior paint.

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: What companies carry elastomeric paint?  
Is it a particular brand I should be using?


Answer
Cindy, I assume your home is leaking if you are considering elastomeric paint.  It is a bit "rubbery" once installed, though looks like normal house paint from the street.

I am not pushing any one brand name.  Again, go to a commercial paint store, one that sells paint to painting contractors.

Here is a bit:
http://www.house-painting-info.com/elastomeric-paint.html

Behr has an excellent reputation:
http://www.behr.com/behrx/act/view/products_detail?prodGroupId=32&catName=Paints

Please read through all these responses by painting contractors:
http://www.painttalk.com/showthread.php?t=57

I did figure out your reference to Loxon primer.