When it comes to enhancing the exterior of your home, a fresh coat of paint does more than improve appearance, it protects, preserves, and adds long, term value. But not all surfaces are created equal, and neither are the products designed to cover them. Whether you're tackling a full façade repaint, reviving your render, or breathing new life into window trims and railings, knowing how to properly prepare and paint each material is crucial to achieving a flawless, long-lasting finish.
With summer offering the perfect conditions for exterior projects, longer days, drier weather, and optimal curing temperatures, now is the ideal time to plan your painting. In this guide, we walk you through the most common household exterior surfaces, detailing everything from surface preparation and product recommendations to the best application techniques and expert advice on drying times. From timber cladding and masonry to stucco, metalwork, and even PVC, we’ll equip you with the knowledge and tools to get the job done to a professional standard.
Whether you’re a seasoned DIY enthusiast or enlisting a decorator, using the right primers, paints, and tools from our range of trusted brands like Colourtrend, Little Greene, Dulux and Farrow & Ball will ensure your home not only looks beautiful, but stands up to the elements for years to come.
Timber cladding and weatherboards bring warmth and charm to a property, but they demand proper treatment to maintain both appearance and performance. Start by inspecting the timber: remove any peeling or blistered paint with a scraper, and sand the surface thoroughly to create a smooth, even base. Clean off dust, algae or mould using Colourtrend’s Fungicidal wash. For bare or weathered timber, apply a wood preserver first to protect against rot. Next, use a high quality exterior primer suited to wood, Colourtrend’s Prime & Prep Exterior Wood Primer is an excellent all, rounder, while Farrow & Ball’s Exterior Wood Primer & Undercoat provides a colour-coordinated base if using their premium range. Once dry, apply two coats of exterior paint. Little Greene’s Intelligent Exterior Eggshell offers durability with a soft sheen, and is ideal for older properties thanks to its microporous, flexible finish. Dulux Weathershield Exterior Satin is another dependable option, designed to resist cracking, flaking and discolouration. Use a high-quality synthetic brush or medium pile roller, applying paint in the direction of the grain. Avoid painting under direct sun or in high humidity, as this can cause blistering or poor adhesion. Most water-based exterior paints are touch dry in 1–2 hours and ready for a second coat in 4–6 hours, but always check the manufacturer’s guidelines. Ensure all end grains and cut edges are sealed with primer and paint to prevent moisture ingress. For coastal or exposed areas, a third coat may be beneficial. Always paint during stable, dry conditions, ideally between 10–25°C, and allow at least 24 hours before rain exposure. For an extra professional touch, fill any gaps or joints with a high-grade, paintable exterior caulk before applying your primer.
Painting brick and masonry can dramatically enhance kerb appeal and offer protection from the elements, but success depends on proper surface prep and product choice. Begin by cleaning the surface thoroughly using a stiff, bristled brush or pressure washer to remove dirt, moss, loose paint, and efflorescence (white salt deposits). For mildew or algae, treat the area with a fungicidal wash and allow it to dry fully. Next, inspect for cracks or damaged mortar joints—fill these with a breathable, exterior-grade filler or mortar repair compound. For previously unpainted or chalky masonry, applying a stabilising primer is essential to ensure even absorption and good adhesion. Dulux Weathershield Stabilising Primer is an excellent option for powdery or porous surfaces. When it comes to paint, opt for breathable, water-resistant finishes like Little Greene’s Masonry Paint, which combines outstanding weather resistance with elegant, chalky matt colours. Colourtrend Exterior Masonry Paint is also highly recommended for its durability, resistance to algae, and superb coverage. If you prefer a traditional aesthetic, Farrow & Ball’s Exterior Masonry offers a classic, flat matt finish and is microporous to allow walls to breathe. Apply paint using a long-pile roller or masonry brush for textured surfaces or use a sprayer for large areas. Two coats are typically required, with a recoat time of 4–6 hours depending on conditions. Avoid painting in very hot or damp weather to prevent flash drying or blistering. Most paints will be weather-resistant after 24 hours, but full cure can take several days. Focus on painting shaded areas first and follow the sun’s path to minimise patchiness. Always mask windows and trims carefully to maintain clean lines and remember to cover surrounding paths or plants. The result will be a crisp, clean finish that lasts for years.
Stucco and rendered surfaces require a careful approach due to their textured finish and susceptibility to cracking. Begin by cleaning the surface thoroughly using a pressure washer or hose and scrub brush to remove dirt, chalking, and organic growth. Any cracks should be widened slightly with a scraper and filled with an exterior masonry filler or flexible render repair. Once dry, sand flush and clean again. For new or previously unpainted render, it’s vital to allow a curing period of at least 28 days before painting. Then, apply a coat of stabilising primer to regulate porosity, Dulux Weathershield Stabilising Primer or Colourtrend Exterior Primer Sealer are reliable choices. For the topcoat, choose a paint designed specifically for masonry. Colourtrend’s Weather Masonry delivers a breathable, weatherproof finish available in their full range of shades, while Farrow & Ball’s Exterior Masonry offers exceptional coverage with a soft matt effect. These paints are microporous, allowing moisture to escape while protecting against rain. Apply using a long-pile roller, masonry brush or airless sprayer depending on the surface depth and size. Work methodically in manageable sections to maintain a wet edge and prevent lap marks. Two coats are usually sufficient, with a 4–6 hour drying window between coats. For best results, avoid painting in temperatures below 8°C or above 25°C, or in direct sunlight where surfaces may be too hot. After painting, allow 24 hours before exposure to rain. In heavily exposed or coastal locations, consider a third coat to ensure optimal protection. Always mask off adjacent surfaces, windows and sills, and be cautious not to overload textured surfaces with too much paint at once, which can lead to runs or clogging in the crevices.
Metal surfaces like railings, gutters, garage doors, and decorative trims require precise preparation to avoid rust and ensure lasting adhesion. Begin by removing any existing rust using a wire brush or sander. Wash the metal thoroughly with a degreasing cleaner to remove oils and contaminants, then dry completely. Bare or previously rusted metal should be treated with a rust inhibitor or converter, Dulux Metalshield Quick Dry Primer or Colourtrend Prime 2 are excellent choices, both offering enhanced adhesion and long-term protection. For galvanised or non-ferrous metals, opt for an etch primer or adhesion-promoting primer. Once primed, apply two coats of a suitable exterior metal paint. Farrow & Ball’s Estate Eggshell is a stylish yet durable option for smaller metal features, though it’s best used over a compatible undercoat. Dulux Metalshield Quick Dry Satin or Gloss provides a tough, fast-drying finish, ideal for larger or functional metal areas like garage doors. For wrought iron railings or garden gates, Little Greene’s Intelligent Gloss is both decorative and highly weather-resistant. Use a high-quality synthetic brush for small details, or a foam roller for smoother metalwork. Spray application can give a flawless finish but requires careful masking and ventilation. Drying times vary, touch dry in 1–2 hours and ready for a second coat in 4–6 hours, with full hardness developing over several days. Avoid painting metal in damp or excessively hot weather, as moisture or rapid drying can compromise adhesion. Check all fixings are secure before painting and replace any corroded screws or brackets with stainless steel. For external doors, lightly sand between coats for a silky-smooth result. With the right prep and product, your metalwork will remain smart and rust, free for years.
Painting PVC, uPVC, and composite materials like cladding, soffits, and trims can refresh the look of a property, but it requires specialist products and surface preparation. These materials are naturally slick and nonporous, meaning standard paints won’t adhere well without extra steps. Begin by washing the surface with a degreasing detergent or sugar soap to remove mould, dirt, and chalking. Rinse thoroughly and allow to dry. Next, scuff sand the surface using a fine abrasive (180–220 grit) to provide some ‘tooth’ for the primer. Wipe with a tack cloth to remove dust. A specialist adhesion primer is essential here, Colourtrend Prime 1 or Zinsser Bulls Eye 1,2,3 is another excellent option for PVC. Allow the primer to cure fully before applying a topcoat. Choose a flexible, UV-stable exterior paint: Colourtrend’s trim finishes offer various sheen levels that are suitable, Little Greene’s Intelligent Exterior Eggshell offers a breathable, low-sheen finish, while Farrow & Ball’s Exterior Eggshell is ideal for trims and conservatory elements with a refined look. Use a high-density foam roller or fine synthetic brush to avoid brush marks and achieve a smooth application. Most water-based topcoats are touch dry within 1–2 hours and ready to recoat after 4 hours. Don’t paint PVC in direct sun, as it can cause rapid drying and visible lap marks. Avoid very cold days (under 8°C) or damp conditions. Painted PVC can take 5–7 days to fully cure and harden, so minimise contact or cleaning during that period. Finally, always check manufacturer compatibility when layering different brands, and avoid using dark colours on large plastic areas unless the product is specifically formulated to resist warping from heat absorption.
Painting your home's exterior is one of the most satisfying upgrades you can make, and when done properly, it offers protection that’s both practical and stylish. While it might be tempting to rush straight to colour selection, taking the time to understand your surface, follow correct preparation methods, and choose the right paint system will pay off in results that last through every season.
With so many premium options available, from the velvety finishes of Farrow & Ball to the weather, tested durability of Dulux Weathershield and Colourtrend’s specialist primers, there’s a solution for every surface and style. Armed with the right products and expert guidance, your summer painting project can transform your exterior, extend the life of your materials, and elevate your home's curb appeal.
If you're unsure which system is right for your project, our in-store colour consultants and paint experts are always happy to help. Visit us to explore sample pots, brush up on techniques, and discover everything you need to paint with confidence this summer.
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