How to Choose the Right Paint for Your Northern Utah Home
Learn how elevation, intense sun, and winter freezes dictate the type of exterior and interior paint you should use.
Northern Utah's unique climate presents specific challenges when selecting paint for your home. From the intense high-altitude UV exposure to freeze-thaw cycles that can crack inferior coatings, choosing the right product is critical for a lasting finish.
Understanding Utah's Climate Impact on Paint
At elevations above 4,000 feet, UV radiation is significantly stronger than at sea level. This means exterior paints fade faster unless they contain advanced UV-blocking pigments. We recommend 100% acrylic latex paints with built-in UV stabilizers for all exterior applications in our service area.
Interior Paint Selection
Utah's dry climate means interior paints dry quickly—sometimes too quickly. This can lead to lap marks and uneven finishes if you're not careful. We prefer paints with extended open times, such as Benjamin Moore Regal Select or Sherwin-Williams Emerald, which give our painters more working time for a flawless result.
Sheen Selection Guide
The right sheen depends on the room's function. Flat finishes hide imperfections on ceilings and low-traffic walls. Eggshell and satin work beautifully in living rooms and bedrooms, offering easy cleaning. Semi-gloss is ideal for kitchens, bathrooms, and trim where moisture resistance matters most.
Our Recommendation
At Prestige Finishes Inc, we exclusively use premium-tier paints because the cost difference per square foot is minimal compared to the dramatic improvement in durability and appearance. When you invest in professional painting, the materials should match the craftsmanship.