Ecopro Silicate Masonry Paint Honeycomb

How to paint your house exterior

Painting the exterior of your home can be a daunting task, but at Earthborn we’ve been doing it for years, so we’re pretty much experts when it comes to painting your home exteriors.

Not only will a fresh coat of paint give your home a facelift, but it will also protect it from the elements and improve its kerb appeal. Our paint expert, Jon, walks you through the steps of painting the exterior of your house and offers some tips to ensure a successful outcome…

 

Step 1: Choose the right paint and primer for your property

The first step in painting the exterior of your house is to choose the right paint. Look for high-quality exterior paint that is specifically formulated for the surface you’re painting. If you’re looking for a durable, breathable exterior masonry paint then we’ve got just the thing for you! Earthborn Silicate Masonry Paint is ideal for exterior (and interior) porous mineral surfaces such as stone, masonry, cob, concrete, pebbledash, plaster and lime render. It’s an eco friendly and highly breathable alternative to traditional lime based and conventional coatings, which dries to a classic, matt finish.

You’ll need to pair it with one of our primers…

Earthborn Silicate Primer is for use on uncoated, bare, porous surfaces. When combined with Silicate Masonry Paint it will create a highly breathable and permanent chemical bond.

Earthborn Bonding Primer is for use over previously painted, sound surfaces. When combined with Silicate Masonry Paint it will create a strong mechanical bond.

Step 2: Buy the right equipment

When painting the exterior of your house it’s important to have the right equipment. There’s nothing worse than starting a paint job and then realising an hour in that you forgot to buy the paint!

We’ve pre-written you a shopping list so you don’t forget anything!

Exterior house painting SHOPPING LIST

Step 3: Prepare your house for painting

Before you pick up a paint brush, make sure to prep the outside of your house. This involves cleaning the exterior of your house and repairing any damage. Make sure to remove any existing flaking or peeling paint. Then, use a pressure washer or a garden hose with a high-pressure nozzle to clean the surface. If you have mildew or mould, use a solution of bleach and water to kill the spores. Let the surface dry completely before moving on to the next step.

Cover windows and doors with masking tape. To avoid getting masonry paint on your window and door frames, make sure to use a good quality masking tape.

 

Step 4: Check the weather forecast

It’s important that the weather is just right when painting exteriors. This is because how the paint dries is directly related to the temperature and conditions at the time of application.

Warm, Dry Days. This is the ideal scenario – not too hot and not too cold, it needs to be consistently above 8°C. Make sure to check the weather a few days before your painting day as if it rains before you paint, you may need a few extra days for the surface to dry out before painting (the moisture content in the wall must not be higher than 20% when applying the paint). You also want to make sure it’s not going to rain after the application whilst the paint is curing.

Easy, Breezy Nights. Remember to check the weather overnight as well, a sudden drop in temperature can make the paint react meaning it won’t cure properly, leaving you with a less than smooth surface, which may crack and peel.

Step 5: Prime

Before painting your exterior you will want to prime the surface, but make sure you are using the correct primer.

First, paint one full coat of your chosen primer.

Then, if you are using the breathable Silicate Primer you’ll need to do a second coat of primer mixed with Silicate Masonry Paint (we’ve included a handy table below for you to refer to).

If you’re using Bonding Primer, go straight to the next step after your first full coat of primer…

Which Earthborn Silicate Primer should I use?

Step 6: It’s time to paint

Use a paintbrush or roller to apply the paint to the surface. Start at the top of the house and work your way down, Apply the paint in a thin, even coat. Always apply paint evenly keeping a wet edge while painting and complete each wall or section in one go. If using Silicate Primer, the first coat needs to be diluted with up to 20% Silicate Primer.

 

Step 7: Let it dry

Before applying a second coat of Silicate Masonry Paint, leave for 6-12 hours to ensure the first layer of paint has dried.

 

Step 8: Apply a second coat

Apply the second coat in the opposite direction to the first coat. Any paint splashes should be washed off immediately with plenty of water.

 

Step 9: Fix any touch ups and clean up

You’re nearly finished! Have a once over the entire house to make sure you have covered all splash marks or anything that needs a bit of touching up. You don’t want to be relaxing after a hard days work and notice you’ve forgotten to paint a corner of the house!

Step 10: Sit back and admire your work

Finally you are finished, and your house should look amazing. Sit back and relax, and think about how you won’t have to paint the exterior of your home again for another 15 years.

Summer courtyard.

Tips for success

Choose a paint and primer that is formulated for your specific surface

Use high quality tools, such as brushes and rollers, to ensure a smooth finish

Don’t paint in direct sunlight or in extreme temperatures

Paint in thin, even coats to avoid drips and runs

Take breaks as needed to avoid getting tired and making mistakes

Clean up your tools immediately after painting to prolong their lifespan

 

Painting the exterior of your house can be a challenging task, but with the right preparation and technique, it can also be a rewarding DIY project. By following the steps outlined above and implementing the tips for success, you can give your home a fresh new look while protecting it from the elements.

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