Can I really use interior paint for outside use?

Question

I was told (by a pretty knowledgeable sales person) that it’s just fine to use an interior paint for a table that’s outdoors? The table lives on my back porch (screened in very large room.)

The table wouldn’t get very much sun or rain but I do live in Florida, less than a mile from the Gulf. We have A LOT of heat and A LOT of humidity!

I‘ve painted many many things in my time and haven’t ever really thought about interior for exterior and vice versa. I definitely plan on sealer/varnish/lacquer of some sort so it’s not like I’m going to paint and not put some sort of finish on the table. Any info/insight on the paint or sealer would be appreciated. Thanks so much!!

Rowgop (Pam) · Answer

https://www.quora.com/Can-you-use-interior-paint-outside-Why-or-why-not

2dogal · Answer

Of course you can - you can use anything anyplace. BUT will it withstand the weather? No. That's why paint companies make different kinds of paint. Otherwise they'd only make one kind of paint. :-)

Janice · Answer

I would think if its used in the area as you described and sealed it will last several years. I'd trust what the paint guy told you as I assumed he was telling you that based on it being fairly protected on the screened in porch. Go for it! Assume you have the paint on hand and want to use it rather than buy exterior...what's the worst that can happen....you have to repaint in a few years. Good Luck!

Janet Pizaro · Answer

https://home.howstuffworks.com/home-improvement/home-diy/painting/interior-paint-exterior.htm

27524803 · Answer

you COULD use interior paint.... IF you used an exterior sealer.

Melody Lynn · Answer

Ive used it outside for a door and trim. Its been 4 years and still good. Army Green

Cheryl Weiss · Answer

I do this all the time, the only difference it will not stay on as long, you will have to repaint more often.

DEBORAH BYRD · Answer

I was able to purchase the color and quality I wanted from the 'oops' paint selection for $9 a gallon. I won't mind needing to repaint a little sooner at that price!!

Dee · Answer

I have done this, and I use a lacquer spray to seal. I have also used outdoor paint indoors.

Ken Erickson · Answer

I would go with an exterior grade paint. Cost difference is minimal. A lot cheaper than redoing it.

Johnavallance82 · Answer

Hi,

I would not use it myself, I would prefer to use External Gloss Paint or maybe one of the 'Shades' colours for garden use on bare wood. Lots of pretty colours!

Archaea · Answer

If you came to this forum, it means that in your life there was a very important event - the decision to repair. Probably the most difficult process is to paint the walls correctly. And not everyone can do the repairs themselves, unfortunately I am one of them.

MGRex · Answer

I love forums. It is on forums that people can learn the real truth about anything. But unfortunately many people write not the truth about some services. And we have to write only the truth, and I'll probably start. I was flooded and I tried to paint the walls myself and as you have already understood I failed. Then I was advised to go to paintingservicesingapore.sg. I contacted the craftsmen and in a few hours my room was completely different.

Thank you for your consideration.

Can I really use interior paint for outside use?

Suggested Project Book

15 Expensive-Looking Lighting Ideas That Might Surprise You

Other

More

Can I really use interior paint for outside use?

Suggested Project Book

Related Discussions