Transforming the appearance of your home’s exterior with a fresh lick of paint is a decision not to be taken lightly. It involves more than just colour choices and where to buy quality paint. Exterior painting is an investment that can enhance your home’s curb appeal, protect it from the elements and add value to your property.
In this detailed guide we’ll walk you through the five essential things you need to consider before tackling your exterior painting project. Whether you’re a seasoned DIY enthusiast or you’re contemplating hiring professionals for the job, these insights will help you plan and execute a paint job that will stand the test of time.
1. The Lay of Your Land: Climate and Geography Considerations
Understanding your local climate and how it can affect the durability of your paint is step one. Are you in the sun soaked, paint peeling tropics of Far North Queensland? Or the more temperate, traditional climate of the eastern suburbs in Sydney? Extreme UV exposure, monsoonal rains, desert winds or coastal salt can all significantly impact the longevity of your paint job.
Selecting paints and finishes specifically designed for your environment will protect your home for years to come. High gloss paints are more durable and easier to clean, making them ideal for areas prone to high winds and dust. Semi gloss and satin finishes work well in moderate climates.
It’s also important to consider local geography. If you live in a region prone to earthquakes, using a flexible paint, or adding a flex agent to your paint, can help the coat endure the occasional shift without cracking.
2. Colour Me Good: The Psychology of Paint Selection
Choosing the right colour for your home’s exterior isn’t just about personal preference. It’s a psychological matter too. Colours can affect moods, impressions and perceptions. For instance a yellow house can evoke a sense of warmth and welcoming invitation. On the other hand a blue home might offer a calm and serene vibe.
Before you go bold with fluorescent orange, it’s advisable to consider the neighbourhood palette. While you want your home to stand out, it should fit in with the overall aesthetic.
If you’re stuck for ideas, many paint companies offer visualiser tools online or in their stores. This can show you how different colours will look on your home. When in doubt don’t hesitate to ask for a professional’s opinion.
Remember that trends change. Opting for a classic colour that complements your house structure and style will ensure it doesn’t go out of style.
3. Prepping Like A Pro
The secret to a professional looking paint job lies in the preparation. This is the most labor intensive part of the process. It is also the most important.
Begin with a thorough inspection of your home’s exterior to identify any issues such as peeling paint, mildew or wood rot. Addressing these problems before painting will not only improve the cosmetic outcome of the job but also prevent future structural damage to your home.
Be sure to wash the surfaces to be painted, repair damaged areas, sand any rough spots and prime the bare wood. Skipping these steps may save time now, but you’ll pay for it in terms of paint longevity. Remember a quality primer is the foundation of any paint job.
4. The Right Tool for the Job
Investing in good quality painting tools will save you time and frustration. Low quality brushes and rollers can leave behind bristles and lint. This will ruin the finish and create additional corrective work.
For most exterior painting jobs a paint sprayer can be a real time saver. This is especially true for large flat surfaces. However for finer details and trim, brushes and rollers are still superior.
While it might be tempting to rush through the painting process, proper technique is important. Strive for even and consistent coverage. Work in the shade and follow sun patterns to avoid the paint drying too quickly. This way you’ll have plenty of time to correct any drips or sags before they dry.
5. It’s All in the Finish
The final step of exterior painting is choosing the right finish. This is also known as the sheen level. The sheen you choose can affect the appearance of your home as well as the longevity of the paint job.
Flat and eggshell finishes hide imperfections and can offer a classic and low lustre look. However these finishes are not as durable and can be more challenging to clean. This makes them less suitable for high traffic or exposed areas.
Semi gloss and high gloss finishes are easier to clean, more durable and can offer a more contemporary feel to your home’s exterior. These are great choices for doors, windows and other accents that you want to stand out.
Another worthy note is that oil based paints are more durable than latex paints. If you want the longest lasting finish you may want to consider them. The trade off is they require solvents for cleanup and are not as environmentally friendly as latex options.
By taking these five crucial points into account, you’ll be well on your way to a successful exterior paint job. If you’re still unsure about any aspects, seek advice from local experts. Remember patience and proper planning are the keys to a stunning and long lasting finish.
FAQ
Q: How often should I have my home’s exterior repainted?
A: The frequency of repainting your home’s exterior depends on several factors. This includes the type of styling, the climate and the quality of the previous paint job. A good rule of thumb is to repaint every 5 to 10 years. Simple regular maintenance can extend the life of the paint job significantly.
Q: Are there any regulations or approvals needed for painting my house in Australia?
A: In Australia some local councils or homeowner associations might have specific regulations or approval processes for exterior painting. It’s always best to check with them to ensure you’re compliant before commencing work.
Q: Should I paint my home’s exterior myself or hire a professional?
A: Painting your home’s exterior is a major undertaking that involves working at heights and can be quite technical. It’s often best left to professionals who have the experience and equipment to do the job safely and efficiently. If you’re considering hiring professionals, consult a reputable company like Swanson Painting on the Gold Coast for a quote and advice.
