British weather makes exterior painting a challenge: unexpected showers, cold mornings and damp air. Benjamin Moore offers two excellent answers – Aura Exterior, its highest-performing exterior paint, and ElementGuard, built specifically for unpredictable weather.
Benjamin Moore ElementGuard
ElementGuard is a 100% acrylic exterior paint that is rain resistant just 60 minutes after application and can be applied in temperatures down to 1.7°C. It stands up to wind-driven rain, humidity and mildew, and uses Benjamin Moore's Gennex colour technology. It suits wood, render, masonry, brick and cladding.
Benjamin Moore Aura Exterior
Aura Exterior is Benjamin Moore's highest-performing exterior paint. Proprietary resins and Color Lock technology deliver rich, full colour and outstanding durability, protecting against cracking, peeling, blistering and fading, with mildew and dirt pick-up resistance. It is self-priming on most surfaces and can be applied down to 1.7°C. It comes in three finishes:
| Finish | Character | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Aura Exterior Flat | Non-reflective, hides imperfections | Render, masonry, cladding |
| Aura Exterior Low Lustre | Soft, eggshell-like sheen; easy to clean | Walls, cladding, trim |
| Aura Exterior Satin | Satin sheen | Doors, shutters, trim and siding |
Aura Exterior vs ElementGuard compared
| Aura Exterior | ElementGuard | |
|---|---|---|
| Positioning | Highest-performing exterior paint | Built for unpredictable weather |
| Rain resistance | Quick drying | Rain resistant after 60 minutes |
| Lowest application temperature | 1.7°C | 1.7°C |
| Coverage | 6–8.5 m²/L | 7–10 m²/L |
| Recoat | 4 hours | See data sheet |
| Colour technology | Color Lock | Gennex |
| Finishes we stock | Flat, Low Lustre, Satin | Flat |
| Self-priming | On most surfaces | — |
| VOC | Low | Max 16 g/L |
Which should you choose?
- Choose ElementGuard if the weather is the main worry – late-season jobs, exposed coastal or hillside homes, or when a shower is likely.
- Choose Aura Exterior for the longest-lasting, richest colour – especially strong colours that need to resist fading – and when you want a sheen finish for doors and trim.
Painting render or brick? You may also want to compare Johnstone's Stormshield and Caparol Muresko masonry paints.
Exterior painting tips
- Repair cracks and fix leaks before painting.
- Clean walls and treat algae or mould, then let the surface dry.
- Avoid painting in direct hot sun, strong wind or when frost is forecast.
- Start early so the paint has time to set before evening dew.
- Apply two coats for the best protection and colour.
Frequently asked questions
Can I paint outside in winter with Benjamin Moore?
Both Aura Exterior and ElementGuard can be applied down to 1.7°C. Avoid frost, rain during application and wet surfaces.
Can these paints be used on render and brick?
Yes. ElementGuard and Aura Exterior Flat suit render, masonry and brick.
Can I get any colour?
Yes – we mix both in any Benjamin Moore colour, or Super White.
Which is better for a front door?
Aura Exterior Satin gives a durable, easy-clean finish for doors and trim.
Buy Benjamin Moore exterior paint from Dawes
Dawes is your local decorating centre in West London. We mix Benjamin Moore exterior paint to order in our store at 158–160 Goldhawk Road, W12 8HJ, or you can order online for delivery anywhere in the UK. Delivery is free on orders over £50, and if you need it fast, our Priority service delivers the next working day when you order by 1pm. Trade accounts are available.
Not sure which product is right for your job? Call us on 020 8748 6711, email sales@dawespaints.co.uk or pop into the shop – we are open Monday to Friday 7am–5pm and Saturday 8am–4pm.
Browse the full Benjamin Moore range.