Choosing Exterior Colours That Won't Fade Fast

March 14, 2025

Choosing Long-Lasting Exterior Colours: A Guide to Fading-Resistant Paint

Nothing refreshes the exterior of a home quite like a fresh coat of paint. But if you've ever watched a once-vibrant shade fade into a washed-out version of itself well before its time, you know the frustration of picking a colour that simply doesn't last. So, how do you choose an exterior paint that holds its brilliance for years? Let’s chat about how to make the best choices so your home stays looking fresh for the long haul.

What Causes Paint to Fade?

There’s science behind colour fading, and it mostly comes down to sun, weather, and quality. Harsh UV rays break down the pigments in paint, moisture weakens the bond between colour and surface, and low-quality products just don’t have the staying power. When choosing exterior paint, the goal is to find a formula with strong UV resistance, rich pigments, and long-lasting durability.

Understanding the Best Colours for Longevity

Not all colours fade at the same rate. Some shades are more forgiving under the strain of the elements, while others struggle from day one.

Earthy & Neutral Tones: Soft beiges, taupes, greys, and browns are some of the longest-lasting colours under the sun. Their muted nature makes them less susceptible to visible fading.
Whites & Off-Whites: While white doesn’t necessarily "fade," it can show dirt and environmental wear more easily. Regular maintenance keeps it looking crisp.
Deep Reds and Warm Yellows: These colours tend to fade faster than greys and browns because they absorb more UV light. If you love warm hues, look for paints with advanced UV protection.
Blues & Greens: These shades hold up well against sunlight but benefit from premium paint formulas to maintain vibrancy.

Investing in Durable Exterior Paint

The right paint formulation makes all the difference in preventing fading. Opting for a high-quality exterior paint with strong pigmentation and UV resistance will give you better longevity. A fantastic choice for durability is Haymes SolaShield, designed to withstand Australia’s tough outdoor conditions. Formulated to provide extreme protection, it’s a go-to for homeowners wanting long-lasting colour integrity.

Finish Matters More Than You Think

Choosing the right finish is just as essential as picking the colour. Gloss and satin finishes tend to reflect more light, resisting UV damage and fading better than matte finishes. If long-term performance matters to you—and let’s be honest, it should—opting for a slightly glossy coat can make a big difference.

Avoiding Common Mistakes When Choosing Exterior Paint

Before grabbing the first tin of paint that looks like a good fit, steer clear of these common missteps:

Going Cheap: Budget paints often skimp on high-quality pigments and protective additives, leading to quicker fading.
Skipping the Primer: A proper primer enhances adhesion and provides a more stable base for your topcoat.
Ignoring Testing: Paint swatches can deceive. Always test colours on a small exterior section and observe them in various daylight conditions before making your final choice.
Neglecting Maintenance: Even the most durable paint needs occasional touch-ups and cleaning to keep it in peak condition.

Bringing It All Together

Choosing the right exterior colour is just as much about longevity as it is about personal style. By selecting fade-resistant hues, investing in premium paint like Haymes SolaShield, and applying the right techniques, you’ll get a stunning exterior that stands up beautifully to time and weather.

Need expert advice on paint selection? Visit us at Strathalbyn H Hardware’s Paint Shop, where we stock quality paints and share expert advice to help your projects succeed. Let’s make sure your home’s fresh coat stays looking fabulous for years!

Happy painting!
Candeece