Exterior Paint FAQs for Home Paint

1. What are different waterproofing products?

When it comes to keeping your home safe and dry, waterproofing products are key. These products come in various forms, each designed to protect different parts of your home from water damage.

First off, you have waterproofing paints and sealants. These are great for applying directly to walls, both inside and outside. They form a barrier that water can't penetrate, keeping your spaces dry and mold-free. For example,Dulux Weathershield paints are a popular choice for exterior walls because they not only provide a vibrant finish but also offer excellent protection against rain and moisture, keeping your home's exterior looking great and well-protected against the elements.

Then, there are waterproofing membranes. These are like big sheets or rolls of material that you can lay over areas like roofs, decks, and bathrooms before you finish them with tiles or other materials. They're super effective at stopping water from getting through.

Water-repellent coatings are another option. These are applied to surfaces like exterior walls and roofs. They let the material breathe, meaning water vapour can escape, but liquid water can't seep in.

For those tricky spots or cracks where water seems to find its way in, waterproofing fillers and injectable sealants can be lifesavers. They fill in gaps and seal them tight, preventing any water from getting through.

Each type of waterproofing product has its own best use, from covering large areas to sealing specific leaks. It's all about choosing the right one for the job to ensure your home stays dry and protected from water damage.

2. What precautions should be taken before and during the exterior painting job?

• Check the Weather: Make sure you choose a dry period for your painting project. Moisture in the air can affect how well the paint dries.
• Surface Preparation: Clean the surfaces thoroughly to remove dirt, grime, and peeling paint. This helps the new paint adhere better.
• Repair Damages: Fix any cracks or holes in the surfaces you'll be painting. This step is crucial for a smooth finish.
• Protect Surroundings: Cover plants, walkways, and furniture to protect them from paint splatters and spills.
• Safety First: Wear protective gear, like masks and gloves, especially if you’re sanding or using chemical strippers. 

During the exterior painting job, keep these points in mind:

• Stay Hydrated and Take Breaks: Exterior painting can be physically demanding, especially in hot weather. Drink plenty of water and take breaks in the shade.
• Use the Right Tools: High-quality brushes, rollers, and sprayers can make a big difference in the efficiency and quality of your work Dulux Weathershield a premium paint, is an excellent choice for outdoor projects, offering durability and protection against the elements.
• Follow Paint Instructions: Each type of paint has specific mixing, application, and drying instructions. Following them can help you achieve the best results.
• Layer Properly: For a solid foundation, consider using high-quality primers from Dulux, which can enhance the paint's adherence and overall finish. Also, follow up with the recommended number of paint coats, allowing proper drying time between each layer.

3. Does exterior paint need a primer?

Yes, using a primer before applying exterior paint is often a good idea. A primer helps the paint stick better to surfaces, making your paint job last longer and look smoother. It's especially important if you're painting over a dark colour with a lighter one, working with porous materials like wood, or dealing with surfaces that have never been painted before.

For exterior paint projects, a primer acts like a base coat. It prepares the walls, ensuring the paint adheres properly and providing an extra layer of protection against the elements. This means your exterior paint will not only go on more evenly but will also stand up better to rain, sun, and temperature changes.

Speaking of primers, Dulux offers products like Dulux Stellar Primer and Dulux Water-Based Gloss Primer, both fast-drying, low-odour options perfect for wood and metal surfaces. These primers ensure excellent adhesion and provide a smooth base for water-based topcoats, enhancing the durability and finish of your exterior paint job.

4. What kind of paint is the best for outdoor paint?

The best kind of paint for outdoor use is one that stands up to the weather and keeps your home looking great. When searching for outdoor paint, you want something that's tough, long-lasting, and can protect your house against all sorts of elements, from the hot sun to heavy rain.

For outdoor paint, look for these qualities:

• Durability: It should withstand harsh weather without fading, peeling, or cracking.
• Weather Resistance: Good outdoor paint offers protection against rain, sun, and changing temperatures.
• Mould and Mildew Resistance: Since outdoor areas can get damp, the paint should resist mould and mildew growth.
• Ease of Application: The paint should go on smoothly and not require too many coats for good coverage.

Considering these points, acrylic-based paints are often the top choice for outdoor projects. They're known for their durability and ability to handle different weather conditions well.

Dulux Weathershield products are an excellent example of high-quality outdoor paint. They're specially formulated to protect your home's exterior from the elements, ensuring your paint job looks fresh and vibrant for years to come. Also, for roofs there is Dulux Weathershield Roof paint that is specially formulated to protect and decorate, offering similar benefits like heat reflection, UV protection, and resistance to fungus, algae, and alkali

5. How to prepare the area for exterior painting?

Clean the Walls: Start by giving the exterior walls a good wash. You can use a pressure washer or a hose with a mild cleaning solution to get rid of dirt, grime, and any loose paint. This step is crucial for ensuring the new paint sticks properly.

Scrape Off Loose Paint: After cleaning, take a scraper and remove any peeling or flaking paint. This helps create a smooth surface for painting.

Repair Damages: Look for any cracks or holes in the walls. Use exterior-grade filler to patch these up and sand down the repairs once dry. It’s important to fix these issues so your paint job looks seamless and lasts longer.

Tape and Cover: Protect areas you don’t want to paint, like windows and doors, with painter's tape. Lay down drop cloths or plastic sheets to shield your plants, furniture, and floors from paint drips.

Prime the Surface: Applying a primer is important, especially if you’re making a significant colour change or if there are many repairs. Primer helps the paint adhere better and provides a uniform base for the topcoat.

And if you're thinking, "This sounds like a lot; I might need a pro," Dulux has got you covered with 'Find a Painter' service. It’s a simple way to connect with reliable painters in your area and get a free quote, taking the hassle out of finding someone to bring your exterior painting project to life.