Vinyl, Brick, or Wood? The Best Exterior Paint Options for Every Surface in Simcoe County

When it comes to exterior painting, not all surfaces are created equal. Each material—whether it’s vinyl siding, brick, or traditional wood—requires a specific approach, the right products, and the right preparation to ensure a long-lasting and beautiful finish.

At Springwater Painting Co., we’ve worked on homes all across Simcoe County, from Barrie and Orillia to smaller towns like Elmvale, Innisfil, and Midland. We understand how our local climate—cold winters, humid summers, and lake-effect moisture—affects exterior surfaces over time. If you're considering painting your home's exterior, here’s what you need to know for each material type.

Vinyl Siding

Vinyl is a popular exterior option across Simcoe County due to its low maintenance and affordability. But over time, even the best vinyl siding can fade or become dated in appearance.

Can You Paint Vinyl Siding?
Yes—but not with just any paint. Vinyl expands and contracts with temperature changes, so the paint used must be flexible and adhere well without cracking or peeling.

Recommended Paint Type:
100% acrylic latex paint specifically formulated for vinyl.
Low-sheen or satin finishes work best.

Key Considerations:

• Color matters: Choose a color that is equal to or lighter than the original to prevent warping.
  
  
• Preparation is everything: Power washing is essential to remove chalking, mildew, and grime before painting.
  
  
• Longevity: With proper prep and product selection, painted vinyl can last 7–10 years.
  
  

Brick

Brick homes are common in older neighborhoods around Orillia, Barrie, and even historic properties in towns like Midland. Painting brick is a great way to modernize a dated exterior, but it requires a thoughtful approach.

Can You Paint Brick?
Yes, but it’s a more permanent decision. Once painted, brick is difficult to return to its natural look.

Recommended Paint Type:
Mineral-based or breathable masonry paints.
Elastomeric coatings can be used in some situations for added durability.

Key Considerations:

• Surface must be dry and clean: Any trapped moisture can cause paint to bubble or peel.
  
  
• Brick needs to breathe: Use breathable paint to avoid trapping moisture inside, which can lead to long-term damage.
  
  
• Sealing may be required: Especially if the brick is soft or porous.
  
  
• Color choice impacts resale: Neutral tones often perform best in Simcoe’s real estate market.
  
  

Wood Siding

Wood siding is still common in many rural and lakefront properties around Springwater Township and Oro-Medonte. It has a timeless, natural appeal—but it also requires the most maintenance and care.

Can You Paint or Stain Wood Siding?
Absolutely. In fact, protecting wood with quality paint or stain is essential to prolonging its lifespan.

Recommended Paint Type:
Acrylic latex paint or solid-color stain for full coverage.
For a more natural look, semi-transparent stain works well but needs more frequent reapplication.

Key Considerations:

• Inspect for rot: Any damaged or rotten boards need replacing before painting begins.
  
  
• Moisture control is critical: Ensure the wood is completely dry before applying any paint or stain.
  
  
• Primer is a must: Especially if the wood has never been painted or if switching from stain to paint.
  
  
• Regular maintenance: Painted wood needs to be checked every few years for peeling or cracking.
  
  

Choosing the Right Paint for Simcoe County’s Climate

Here in Simcoe County, your home’s exterior faces a wide range of weather—snow and freezing rain in the winter, strong UV rays in the summer, and heavy fall moisture from Georgian Bay. That’s why choosing high-quality exterior paints and working with experienced professionals is essential.

At Springwater Painting Co., we only use premium products that are proven to hold up in our unique climate. We also take the time to properly prep every surface—because even the best paint won’t perform well without a solid foundation.

Need Help Deciding?

Not sure what kind of siding you have or how best to approach painting it? We offer free exterior consultations across Simcoe County. Whether you're in the city or tucked away on a country road, we’ll help you choose the best solution for your home’s specific surface and style.

Contact Springwater Painting Co. today to get started on your next exterior painting project.