Durability of a paint job

You've spent lots of time and money on a beautiful paint job that revitalises your home, but how long will it last? It is disheartening to have to repaint after only a few years because you have chosen paint that does not wear well on the surface it is covering. Choosing paint for durability is important, so it is also important to understand what affects paint durability, and how you can maximise it. Painting a surface, particularly wooden and metal ones, can also increase the durability of the house or object.

Paint and types of surfaces

Different paints are designed for different applications, and correctly matching the paint to the surface and application greatly affects the paint's durability. Consider these factors when choosing paint:

• Whatever paint you are using, proper preparation of the surface to be painted is vital. To ensure maximum life of your paintjob, surfaces must be clean, flat (free of bumps, splinters, holes and other irregularities which may disrupt the surface) and appropriate for the type of paint used
• Metal surfaces should be blasted clean for maximum paint durability. Cleaning with a metal brush will help, but metal surfaces cleaned this way should be treated with a primer before painting
• Raw wood surfaces should be treated with a primer, to avoid tannin staining. Nails should be sunk into the wood, filled with a timber filler, then painted over.
• Masonry and brickwork needs to be cleaned with a metal brush, and then coated with a primer before painting
• Strip already painted surfaces with a chemical stripper or heat gun only if blistered or in bad condition. Otherwise simply sand a little and paint over
• Carefully choose your paint to match it to the surface you are coating. Take note of the directions on the can, or ask an assistant at the hardware store for advice on this

Paint: How to choose a type of paint?

Choose your paint based on the surface to be painted, the finish you want, and whether the paint is going onto an exterior or interior surface. Interior paints should last three years without noticeable signs of wear. Exterior paint may last anywhere from one to three years, depending on the finish. Exterior acrylic lasts the longest, semitransparent stains may only look good for a year or so.

The durability of your paint work

Painting work will only last as long as the surface preparation and choice of paint allows. If you are hiring a professional painting contractor, ensure that they discuss with you the expected durability of the paint that they are suggesting, and that they prepare the surface appropriately. If painting yourself, choose the paint based on these factors, and your work will last for as long as possible.