Ace. Sensations employs Scotchgard for stain protection. The acrylic flat latex paint can be washed with soap and water and resists mildew and oily stains. It requires only one coat for complete application and carries the company's lifetime warranty. 630.990.6600. www.acehardware.com.
MasterChem. Kilz Exterior is a sealer and primer that blocks most stains. Developed specifically to withstand outdoor elements, it creates a strong base coat that resists cracking and peeling. It also contains a mildewcide and dries to the touch in 30 minutes. 866.774.6371. www.kilz.com.
Diversified Brands. Waterborne, corrosion-resistant Iron Guard DTM Acrylic Enamel can be applied directly to metal without a primer. The high-gloss, low-VOC, low-odor enamel provides rust protection and resistance to early moisture. It's recommended for use on steel, iron, aluminum, galvanizing, concrete, masonry, and wood. 800.777.2966. www.diversifiedbrands.com.
Pittsburgh Paints. The Sun Proof UV-protected line of exterior stains comes in an array of formulas for different applications. Solid Color Stain (available in 136 colors) and Semi-Transparent Stain are both offered in Waterbase and Alkyd/Oil. The Exterior Toners and Clears come in Acrylic/Oil and Alkyd/Oil. All can be used on decks, fences, siding, outdoor furniture, and more. 800.441.9695. www.pittsburghpaints.com.
United Gilsonite Laboratories. Newly reformulated ZAR Wood Stain now has a shorter drying time (as little as three hours, depending on drying conditions). It wipes on to ensure uniform color and won't leave lap marks or streaks. It can be applied to metal, fiberglass, steel, and previously painted surfaces. Five new colors have been added to its palette, including Driftwood and Aged Varnish. 800.272.3235. www.ugl.com.
Pratt & Lambert. The Accolade line features a stain-resistant formula and the ability to withstand multiple washings. Its 100% acrylic formula contains titanium dioxide, a primary pigment to enhance color. 800.289.7728. www.prattandlambert.com.
Sherwin-Williams. Available in an assortment of colors, Vertical Concrete Stain adds style while providing protection from weather and water. It's formulated to penetrate the surface and resists color fading, blistering, and efflorescence. For use on large concrete structures, the stain sprays on easily and dries in as little as 15 minutes. 800.524.5979. www.sherwin-williams.com.
Dutch Boy. Ceiling Solution Color Transforming Paint goes on violet and changes to white, making it easy to catch missed spots. It dries to white in 25 to 30 minutes and is splatter-resistant. 800.828.5669. www.dutchboy.com.
Zinsser. Perma-White Mold & Mildew Proof Interior paint is now available in an eggshell sheen. Developed for high-humidity areas, it contains a mildewcide to prevent the growth of mold and mildew on the paint film. Its acrylic resins produce a washable, blister-proof, and stain-resistant surface, the maker says, and it can be tinted. 732.469.8100. www.zinsser.com.
California Paints. Diamond Acrylic Latex Ceiling White is touted as the whitest white on the market. The flat finish paint applies easily and boasts high color retention, adhesion, and leveling, according to the maker. For use on plaster, drywall, wallboard, concrete, wood, and other surfaces. 800.225.1141. www.californiapaints.com.
