What is "weathering" in the context of paint longevity?

Weathering refers to the degradation of paint resulting from prolonged exposure to environmental factors such as sunlight, moisture, temperature fluctuations, and airborne contaminants. These elements can cause the paint to fade, lose adhesion, chalk, blister, or peel. Understanding weathering is crucial for assessing paint longevity, as it directly impacts the durability and performance of the paint on surfaces exposed to the elements.

In contrast, improvement of paint color over time is not associated with weathering; typically, paint may dull or fade. The application of a protective coat refers to methods used to enhance the lifespan of the paint but does not define weathering itself. Refreshing old paint surfaces might involve maintenance practices but is not a result of the weathering process. Choosing degradation due to environmental exposure captures the essence of weathering and its significance in paint technology.