How To Prepare A House For Exterior Painting

May 30, 2023

When it comes to painting exteriors, preparation is key! While you might be tempted to skip the prep, preparation is the only way to guarantee long-lasting paint and a beautiful finish. In fact, preparation should take up to 50% of the time on your painting project. So, if you’re planning to paint the exterior of your Byron Bay home, then follow this simple step-by-step process.

Step 1: Check The Weather Forecast

In Byron Bay, as in much of Australia, the weather can change rapidly. It's important to have a clear, sunny weather forecast for at least the next few days before you start painting. The ideal conditions for painting in Australia are 15-20°C, with humidity 70-80% and a very gentle breeze.

Step 2: Clean Your Exterior

Before beginning any painting project, you need to create a clean surface. Dirt, dust and mould are all common occurrences in Byron Bay due to the coastal environment. You can use a high-pressure water cleaner to effectively clean your exterior surfaces. Make sure you allow all surfaces to dry for a day or two before doing anything else.

Step 3: Address Any Maintenance Issues

During the cleaning process, you may uncover maintenance issues that need attention. These could be cracks in the render, rotten timber or rusted iron. It's vital to fix these issues before painting to ensure a smooth finish and prevent further damage. Fill any holes and cracks in your exterior surfaces with a high quality exterior filler.

Step 4: Prepare Surfaces

Once your house is clean and any necessary repairs have been made, it's time to prepare the surfaces. Start by sanding the surfaces to remove old paint and provide a smooth base. Remember, a smooth surface will allow the paint to adhere better and will result in a smoother finish. After sanding, the surface should have a flat sheen.

Step 5: Prime Surfaces

Primer provides a base for the paint, allowing it to stick better and last longer. Make sure to choose a primer suitable for your surface and the Byron Bay climate. If you are covering a dark colour or a surface that’s never been primed or painted, you will need to use an undercoat.

Step 6: Choose The Right Paint

Choose a paint that is specifically designed for exterior use and is suitable for the Byron Bay climate (e.g. mould resistance and UV resistance). Make sure to select a colour that complements the style of your home and the surrounding environment.

Step 7: Begin Painting

After all the preparations are complete, it's time to begin painting. Use the correct techniques for your surface type to ensure a smooth finish. For the best finish use a small brush to cut in around windows, doors and other fittings and then use a roller to cover larger areas.

Your Local Byron Bay Exterior Painting Experts

If all these steps sound overwhelming, don't fret! If you're looking for professional help with exterior painting in Byron Bay, Yves De Wilde Quality Painting Service is here to help. We've been painting homes and businesses across Byron Bay for over 3 decades, so you can rest assured that your home is in expert hands. Get in touch with us today and let us bring your vision to life!

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