Getting the best results from your exterior paint job

Exterior painting requires more planning than interior work because of the weathering stresses that will be placed on it, as well as the public nature of the result. Care needs to be taken in the preparation and execution of the paint job, as well as in the careful selection of paint types and colours. Complete the job with care, and the results will not only please you, but will last better as well.

Preparing to get the best from exterior paint

To get the best results when painting the outside of your home or garden features such as fences or sheds, you will need to spend some time in preparation and planning. Take stock of the type and condition of the surface, and any repairs that may be required.

Choose exterior paint carefully, as it will need to be robust under all weather conditions. Exterior acrylic paint will last the longest - anywhere from one to three years, depending on the degree of exposure to the weather, and the surface the paint is applied to. Exterior stains may only last a year or so.

Getting good results from exterior painting

Follow these steps to get the best results from your exterior paint work.

• Assess the surface type, and buy paint accordingly (see the can for the most appropriate surfaces for each paint type). Also assess the shape or the surface to determine the best way to apply the paint
• Prepare the surface by ensuring it is clean and free of rust (you may need to strip or scour rusty surfaces with a wire brush), dirt or grease. Old paint only needs to be removed if it is in poor condition, or is starting to lift, flake or bubble
• Complete any necessary repairs to the surface. Fill in cracks, gaps and nail holes with putty and sand flat when dry. Sand the surface to remove unevenness and splinters
• Apply any primers that are indicated by the surface type, such as a rust retardant primer, or a wood primer
• Chose the most appropriate applicator. A good quality brush with long thick bristles is usually the best for outdoor painting. Never use a cheap brush, as it will disintegrate, leaving hairs in the paint job
• Use a roller only for large clean flat surfaces, and apply in a zigzag pattern, obviously covering all the area to be painted as you go

Choosing the right paint, preparing the surface properly and using good quality tools to apply it are the keys to a successful exterior paint job.

Exterior painting

Getting the best results from your exterior paint job is a fairly simple matter of preparation. It simply requires a little extra time and effort to ensure that the results look the best they can and that the paint will last for as long as possible. Preparation is particularly important for the longevity of a paint job in the harsh environment of the outside of your home, unprotected from the weather.