With the arrival of warmer weather, now is the perfect time to turn attention outdoors as the days grow longer and you're enjoying more time in your garden. Whether it's refreshing exterior walls or introducing colour to outdoor spaces, paint is one of the most effective ways to bring a refreshed sense of energy to a home's exterior.
We've shared our guidance on getting started with painting, achieving the best finish and improving the overall look and feel of the outside of your home.
Think carefully about the colour
When selecting colours, it helps to think about the age of your property, its location and orientation, and how it sits alongside your neighbours' homes. Neutral tones are a great choice, offering a clean, enduring and classic look that will stand the test of time. For those looking to introduce something more playful, soft pastel colours such as baby pink or lemon yellow look beautiful in the sunlight, especially when paired with planting and greenery. Plus, they add a welcome pop of colour and warmth when your home is north-facing. Lighter, cooler tones are also a reliable choice outdoors, as they reflect light well and maintain their appearance over time.
Be prepared
Start by paying attention to the weather conditions. This is because how the paint dries is directly related to the temperature and conditions at the time of application. This ideal scenario is not too hot and not too cold – and it needs to be consistently above 8°C. Make sure to check the weather a few days before you paint, as if it rains before, you may need a few extra days for the surface to dry out.
Next, ensure the surface you are painting is ready and prepared for paint. Begin by removing any existing flaking or peeling paint and addressing any damage with suitable materials. A jet wash can help identify unstable surfaces when cleaning the area thoroughly for preparation. If you have algae or mould, use a solution of bleach and water to kill the spores, then rinse thoroughly. Let the surface dry completely before moving on to the next step.
Choose the right paint
Start by looking for high-quality exterior paint that is specifically formulated for the surface you're painting. Breathability is an important factor to consider when choosing an exterior building paint, as it allows water vapour to pass between the external and internal surfaces, helping to prevent the build-up of moisture and therefore ensuring long-term paint quality.
Durability and weather resistance are also important as the paint needs to withstand changes in temperature and weather conditions, without cracking or peeling. Exterior masonry paints should not only add colour, but also protect the property from wear and tear, as well as help care for the building. Mineral-based silicate paints create a chemical reaction which forms a physical bond with the surface it's used on, rather than just sitting on top. This provides excellent longevity, durability and weather resistance to the building.
Designed to breathe, built to last
When working with exterior surfaces, particularly older properties, the choice of paint goes beyond colour alone. Our Silicate Masonry Paint is designed to allow buildings to breathe while offering long lasting protection. Find out more about our breathable exterior paint here.
