Your guide to exterior house painting
The exterior of our homes is constantly exposed to harsh weather, which can wear away its protective layers. Long standing Guild member Phil Robinson, founder of Paint the Town Green, offers valuable insights into exterior painting, including how to choose colours, address common challenges and maintain a freshly painted look.
When to Repaint
Phil explains that there are two main reasons for painting the outside of your house: aesthetics and protection from the weather. You’ll know it’s time to repaint when you notice paint flaking off, especially around the windowsills, or cracks in the render. These signs indicate that your home may no longer be adequately protected by the existing paint.
The Painting Process
The process of painting your home’s exterior starts with getting a quote. Paint the Town Green prefers to provide quotes based on site visits rather than photos to ensure accuracy. After agreeing on the cost, the next step is to set up scaffolding and prepare the surfaces. This involves sanding down and removing any loose or flaking paint. Sometimes, previously unnoticed defects become visible once the scaffolding is up, which might require adjustments to the initial quote.
If everything is in good condition, the preparation work is completed, and the base coat is applied. This thorough approach ensures a durable and long-lasting paint job.
Choosing the Right Colours
When selecting paint colours for your home’s exterior, consider a few important factors. Some cities, like London, have regulations about which colours you can use, so it’s important to check with your local council first. Also, think about the impact on your neighbours. While the interior of your house reflects your personal style, the exterior contributes to the overall appearance of the street.
Phil advises caution with dark colours because they attract more heat, which can cause quicker deterioration, especially on woodwork. Opting for lighter colours, such as white gloss, can help reflect light and heat, minimising damage and peeling.
Best Time for Painting
The ideal time for exterior painting is in the spring or summer when the weather is warmer and drier. It’s best to avoid painting between Halloween and Easter because colder and damper conditions can prevent paints and fillers from curing properly. If rain is forecast during a summer project, Paint the Town Green monitors the weather closely and reschedules if necessary. Combining exterior and interior painting can be advantageous, allowing work to continue indoors during rainy periods.
A common challenge in exterior painting is dealing with foliage that obstructs access or scaffolding. Trees or climbing plants covering the house can be temporarily moved. The team at Paint the Town Green works with clients and their gardeners to carefully unfix and reattach plants as needed, ensuring a smooth process.
During the painting process, Paint the Town Green collaborates with clients to move or protect any plants that can’t be relocated. This approach helps safeguard landscaping and other outdoor features, maintaining the beauty of your home.
Maintenance Tips
To keep the appearance of your freshly painted exterior, Phil recommends avoiding shortcuts by choosing cheaper quotes that compromise on preparation. Regular redecoration by skilled decorators ensures the longevity of the paintwork. Trying to extend the life of exterior paint by patching up areas can lead to confusion over maintenance schedules and ultimately reduce the effectiveness of the protection.
One notable project for Paint the Town Green was Globe House Central in Twickenham, an art deco former printing works restored using Keim Mineral paint. Working on such a heritage site was a significant achievement for the team, contributing to the preservation of a local landmark.
If you notice your home’s exterior paint starting to flake and peel, consider reaching out to Paint the Town Green for a quote.
020 8871 0531
