Not all paints perform equally in the Bay Area. Our unique climate—morning fog, afternoon sun, occasional salt air, and UV exposure—demands products specifically designed for these conditions. After testing dozens of products across hundreds of projects, here are our professional recommendations.
"Premium paints cost $20-$40 more per gallon than contractor-grade—but they last 50% longer in Bay Area conditions. When labor represents 70-85% of your project cost, paint quality is where to invest. A premium exterior paint that lasts 10-12 years vs. 6-8 years saves thousands over time."
— Arana, Owner, Arana Painting (CA LIC #1015308)
Top Exterior Paints for Bay Area
🏆 Our Top Pick: Sherwin-Williams Duration
- Lifetime limited warranty
- Excellent moisture and mildew resistance
- Superior adhesion—critical for fog exposure
- Outstanding color retention
Best for: All Bay Area exteriors, especially coastal and fog-prone areas
Price: ~$75-$85/gallon
Benjamin Moore Aura Exterior
- Proprietary Color Lock technology
- Exceptional fade resistance (critical for south-facing walls)
- Dries at lower temperatures (ideal for fog belt)
- Premium price but premium performance
Best for: Sun-exposed walls, historic homes requiring color accuracy
Price: ~$80-$95/gallon
PPG Timeless Exterior
- True one-coat coverage
- Paint and primer in one
- Great value for performance
- Excellent for repaints
Best for: Budget-conscious projects without sacrificing quality
Price: ~$55-$65/gallon
Top Interior Paints
Bay Area Climate Considerations
Fog Belt (Daly City, San Bruno, Pacifica)
Prioritize moisture resistance and mildew protection. Look for paints that dry at lower temperatures.
Waterfront (Foster City, Redwood Shores)
Consider marine-grade primers for extreme moisture exposure. Salt air requires enhanced corrosion protection.
Sun Exposure (South/West facing)
UV-resistant formulas prevent fading. Critical for dark colors which absorb more heat.
What We Don't Recommend
- Big-box store economy paints: Poor adhesion and coverage means more coats and shorter lifespan
- Non-acrylic latex for exteriors: Can't handle Bay Area moisture fluctuations
- Ultra-flat finishes outdoors: Can't be cleaned, shows dirt quickly
- Oil-based exterior (most applications): California VOC regulations and performance favor acrylics
Questions About Paint Selection?
We'll recommend the right products for your specific project and location
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