We prefer Benjamin Moore, Cabot, Zinser, Sherwin-Williams, Pratt and Lambert and proven paints and stains. Product durability depends alot on which product you use to seal your home.  Ask for our recommendations if in doubt.

Oil vs Latex:  Generally, oil primers are great for sealing raw or scraped wood.  Oil topcoats are ok if used over clean previously oil painted or stained wood.  Latex and acrylic are often preferred as a topcoat since it does not usually "chalk". 

Water sealers:  Come in clear, clear with UV protection, tinted and some variations.  Provide minimal water shedding properties and on Long Island can be expected to last 1 or 2 years depending upon weather exposure of each section of home.

Stain:  Penetrates better than paint. Minimizes flaking.  Solid stains looks best and lasts longer than water sealers. Semi-transparent and semi-solid normally last half as long or less than solid stains.  Different specific stains may be applied on siding, trim and decks etc. 

Paint:   Lusters-Flat generally looks best on siding.  Low Luster looks best on trim but can be applied to siding for longer life.  Semi-gloss has often traditionally been used on trim but is becoming more popular to use low luster here.

In moisture prone locations we will often use a mildewcide additive in paints and stains to cut down on future growth of the black spotting villain mildew.

Remember---It is important that within two days to approximately a month after pressure washing that the surfaces be sealed with some kind of reliable product to protect it.