Painting the outside of a house might seem like a simple task; however, there are certain steps that should be taken to ensure a professional finish is achieved.
As well as buying the paint and tools required, Scott Anson Painters and Decorators Ltd. also recommends that homeowners should consider safety, preparation and several other important factors.
Equipment and Tools
Before getting started, consider the area to be painted and how this can be achieved safely. A sturdy ladder that will enable the painter to reach the highest points of the property – without reaching more than an arm’s length away – is crucial.
After choosing a ladder, you should gather the rest of the required equipment. If the wall is pebbledash you will need a stiff brush, while a softer brush will be more effective if the wall is brickwork. Masking tape, filler, detergent and cloths are also necessary to achieve the best result.
Paint
Choosing the right type of paint for the outside of a property is critical, as not only does it improve the aesthetics, but it also plays a part in waterproofing.
Generally speaking, a good quality masonry paint will be needed. This type of outdoor paint can be used for cement renders, brickwork, stucco and pebbledash.
When you begin painting, start from the top of the walls and work your way down. This will make it easier to control any drips, resulting in a smoother finish.
Preparation
To achieve professional results, homeowners should expect to spend just as much time on preparation as painting. Before starting, remove any loose paint, dirt or moss that has built up over time. If the surface has fungal growth, finish up with a fungicidal wash.
After cleaning, fill in any damaged areas or cracks with filler and sand down to create a smooth surface.
Sometimes, new render or pebbledash can develop a powdery surface after cleaning. If this is the case, apply an exterior primer or stabilising agent before painting (consult the paint manufacturer’s guidelines for best practices).
When you are ready to paint, cover up/mask off any windows and anything else that needs protecting to make the clean-up easier.
Weather
Try to pick a dry, cloudy day. This way, the paint will be at a constant temperature and will avoid any glare or direct heat from the sun. On a very hot day, paint can dry badly or unevenly, resulting in peeling and a poor finish.