Exterior paint?

[SquidgyMaltLoaf]

Can I use normal gloss paint on an exterior wooden porch? Or do I need proper exterior stuff?

[roneik]

Should say on the tin for wood or metal exterior use usually.
If it's water based it wont be suitable. I always use Sadolin paints for the exterior. They are extremely durable and will easily even with south facing surfaces last the very minimum of seven years. Mine was painted 8 years ago and still looks fresh. They cost a bit more initially but work out far cheaper long run

www.sadolin.co.uk/

[SquidgyMaltLoaf]

Just normal oil-based gloss. I'd probably go over it with better stuff at some point but I'm wondering if it'll at least make it look better for the moment!

[PigletJohn]

if you put an unsuitable paint on "for the moment" you will have the extra work of scraping it off, and possibly treating cracks and rot, when you get round to doing it properly.

For outdoor work I strongly recommend an oil-based paint system, starting with Aluminium Wood Primer which is very durable.

The wood must be fully dry before you start.