We independently select all products and services. If you click through links we provide, Mighty Deals may earn a commission.
Painting the exterior of a house or building requires the right tools to ensure a smooth and durable finish. One essential tool for this job is a high-quality exterior paint brush. These brushes are designed to handle tough outdoor conditions and provide an even coat of paint. Choosing the best paint brush can make a significant difference in the efficiency and appearance of your painting project.
When selecting an exterior paint brush, there are several important factors to consider. The type of bristles, the size of the brush, and the handle material all play a role in how well the brush performs. Synthetic bristles are generally better for water-based paints, while natural bristles are preferred for oil-based paints. The brush size should match the surface area you are painting, with larger brushes covering more area and smaller brushes being ideal for detail work. Comfort and durability of the handle are also critical, especially for longer projects.
We researched and tested numerous exterior paint brushes to find the ones that offer the best performance and durability, making your painting project easier and more efficient.
Best Exterior Paint Brushes
Here are our top picks for the best exterior paint brushes. These brushes will help ensure a smooth and even coat on your projects.
1. Pro Grade 3″ Flat Brushes
Pro Grade 3″ Flat Brushes are a good buy for those looking to complete painting projects quickly and effectively.
Pros
- Comfortable wooden handles
- Holds a lot of paint
- Durable and reusable
Cons
- Occasional bristle shedding
- Not top-tier quality
- Bristle tips could be finer
These brushes have solid wooden handles that feel comfortable during long painting sessions. We’ve used them for painting trim and walls, and they hold plenty of paint, reducing our trips back to the paint can. Additionally, the thick synthetic blend seems to provide smooth, even coats without many streaks.
Unfortunately, some hairs do tend to fall out while painting, which can be a bit frustrating. While they’re decent in quality, they don’t quite match up to the more expensive brands in terms of durability. The bristle tips are also not as fine as we would like, which means they can lack a bit of precision for detailed work.
In summary, Pro Grade 3″ Flat Brushes are a practical choice for quick and efficient painting. They may not be perfect, but they offer good value for the money spent.
2. Vermeer Angle Paint Brushes 5-Pack
A top choice if you need a versatile set of durable and comfy paint brushes for exterior painting.
Pros
- Comes with a variety of sizes and angles
- Comfortable wooden handles
- Durable and reusable
Cons
- Some brushes may lose bristles after washing
- Not high-grade, but gets the job done
- A bit stiff for fine detail work
We recently tried out the Vermeer Angle Paint Brushes 5-Pack. The selection of sizes and angles made cutting in edges and painting trim extremely easy. With a mix of 1″, 1.5″, 2″, stubby 2″, and 2.5″ brushes, there’s the right tool for every part of the job.
The handles are solid wood and feel nice and sturdy in our hands. We noticed that we could paint for longer without our hands getting tired. Plus, the synthetic bristles held a good amount of paint, reducing the need to reload frequently.
On the downside, we did find some bristle shedding after the first wash. This can be annoying, especially if you’re aiming for a perfect finish. Also, while the brushes are great for general painting, they might be a bit too stiff for very detailed work.
Overall, this set is excellent for most exterior painting needs, offering good value with its five different brushes.
3. Pro Grade Paint Brushes
This product set is a great choice due to its quality and affordability.
Pros
- Affordable price
- Versatile set for various tasks
- Holds paint well
Cons
- Occasional bristle shedding
- Limited durability with frequent use
- No protective covers
The Pro Grade Paint Brushes set offers a nice balance between cost and performance. We found these brushes to be quite effective for outdoor painting projects like fences and decks. The SRT filaments hold a good amount of paint, which means fewer trips to the paint bucket.
Using these brushes was straightforward, even for detailed work such as trim and edges. While some bristles did fall out during use, it wasn’t a significant issue. The brushes provided a smooth, professional finish, which was a pleasant surprise given their affordable price point.
Although they might not last as long as higher-end brushes, they’re certainly a solid choice for anyone needing a dependable set on a budget. For any exterior painting tasks, you can count on these brushes to get the job done well.
4. Bates Choice Paint Brushes
These brushes are a solid choice for anyone looking to complete an exterior paint job efficiently and effectively.
Pros
- Smooth application
- Easy to clean
- Affordable price
Cons
- Handle might feel loose
- Not as thick as other brushes
- Bristles may require careful cleaning
We were pleasantly surprised by how smooth our painting experience was with the Bates Choice Paint Brushes. The synthetic filaments made the application feel like a breeze, gliding over surfaces effortlessly. The lightweight wood handle made it easy to hold, minimizing fatigue during extended painting sessions.
These brushes are a bargain for the price. Easy to clean, they are perfect for multiple uses, even though we originally considered them as potential throwaways. The bristles held up well, recovering their shape after each washing.
Despite their many strengths, the handles felt a bit loose at times, which might concern some users. While not as thick as higher-end brands, these brushes still provided decent coverage. Just keep in mind that the bristles may need extra attention during cleaning, especially when used with thicker stains.
Buying Guide
When choosing the best exterior paint brush, it’s important to focus on key features that will make your painting project easier and more efficient.
Bristle Type
Natural bristles work well with oil-based paints. Synthetic bristles, such as nylon or polyester, are better for water-based paints.
Handle Comfort
Look for ergonomic handles for a comfortable grip. A good handle reduces fatigue during long painting sessions.
Brush Width
Wide brushes (3-4 inches) are great for large surfaces. Narrow brushes (1-2 inches) are better for detail work and edges.
Bristle Length
Longer bristles provide a smoother finish. Shorter bristles offer more control for detailed work.
Feature | Good For |
---|---|
Natural Bristles | Oil-based paints |
Synthetic Bristles | Water-based paints |
Wide Brushes | Large surfaces |
Narrow Brushes | Detail work and edges |
Long Bristles | Smooth finish |
Short Bristles | Detailed control |
Durability
High-quality brushes will cost more but last longer. Look for brushes with durable ferrules (the metal part that holds bristles).
Easy Cleaning
Choose brushes that are easy to clean, especially if you plan to use them multiple times.
Price
While budget brushes are tempting, investing in a mid-range or high-end brush often saves money in the long run because they last longer and provide better results.
We hope this guide helps you choose the right exterior paint brush for your needs. Happy painting!
Frequently Asked Questions
Choosing the right exterior paint brush can make a big difference in the quality of your painting job. We answer some common questions to help you pick the best tools.
What are the qualities of a good exterior paint brush for wood?
A good exterior paint brush for wood should have durable bristles that can handle rough surfaces. It should also hold a lot of paint to cover large areas efficiently. Look for comfortable handles for extended use.
Which type of paint brush is most suitable for exterior siding?
For exterior siding, synthetic bristle brushes are often the best choice. They work well with both latex and oil-based paints. They resist wear and maintain their shape even with heavy use.
How do I choose the appropriate brush for exterior painting projects?
Consider the surface you are painting and the type of paint you will use. Different brushes are better for large, flat surfaces versus detailed work. Check the brush width, bristle type, and handle comfort.
What advantages do Chinex paint brushes offer for outdoor painting jobs?
Chinex brushes are known for their resilience and easy cleanup. They perform well with water-based paints, making them ideal for outdoor projects. The bristles hold their shape, even after heavy use.
Can a masonry paint brush be used for other types of exterior surfaces?
Masonry brushes are designed for rough surfaces like brick and concrete. While they can be used on other surfaces, they might not provide the same smooth finish as brushes meant for wood or siding.
Why might a professional painter choose a Purdy brush for an exterior task?
Professional painters often choose Purdy brushes for their high-quality bristles and durable construction. These brushes offer excellent paint holding capacity and a smooth, even finish. They are also comfortable to use for long periods.
Related Articles: