Expert's Tips for Painting a Rendered House
Introduction
Does your rendered house look faded and weathered? Are cracks starting to show or is mould creeping across those textured walls? Painting the exterior is the easiest way to revive a tired rendered facade. But there’s prep work involved if you want that fresh paint job to last.
Follow the step by step guide to learn the best practices for painting rendered homes in Newcastle and surrounding regions. We cover everything from pressure cleaning cracked render to priming for better adhesion on tricky surfaces. Read on for pro tips to make your home look new again.
Why Invest in a Quality Paint Job?
Before we look into gritty details, let’s look at why it’s so important to invest time, effort and money into properly painting your rendered home’s exterior:
- Protects the render itself from damage caused by moisture, mildew, cracking and peeling
- Enhances curb appeal and adds value by keeping your home looking its best
- Brightens up faded surfaces and conceals existing flaws or discolourations
- Saves money over time by extending the time between repaints
Now that you know what’s at stake, let’s discuss how to do this right.
Step 1: Start with a Clean, Sound Surface
Paint has a hard time sticking to dirty walls. So, giving your home’s rendered exterior walls a good wash is important before painting. This removes built-up dirt, stains, mould and loose render pieces, making it harder for the paint to stick.
- PSI Matters: Most experts recommend staying between 2500 – 3000 psi for cleaning rendered surfaces. This provides enough power to remove dirt and grime but is gentle enough to avoid damaging the render.
- It’s all in the Angle: Hold the pressure washer nozzle at a slight angle to the wall. Keep the nozzle at least 1 foot from the wall to avoid damaging the render.
- Test First: Always start with a less noticeable area to test your pressure washer settings and technique before cleaning the house.
Alternative Cleaning Methods (No Pressure Washer? No Problem!)
- The Garden Hose: A strong spray setting on your garden hose can still provide decent cleaning power, especially for lightly soiled surfaces.
- Stiff Brush & Detergent: Get into the grooves with a dedicated stiff-bristled brush and a bucket of warm water mixed with a mild all-purpose cleaner or a specialised render cleaning solution. It takes more elbow grease, but it works!
- Specialised Cleaners: Consider a dedicated mildew cleaner for stubborn stains like mildew, or consult a painting supply shop for recommendations.
Important Note: Regardless of the cleaning method, thoroughly rinse with clean water to remove any cleaning solution residue before painting.
Step 2: Make Any Necessary Repairs
Cracks happen in exterior rendered walls, plain and simple. They might be due to the natural aging of your home or caused by weather and ground shifts. No matter the reason, those cracks act like an open door for water and debris. Left unchecked, this can lead to costly damage under the surface. That’s why sealing those cracks is crucial before you start painting.
- Tiny hairline cracks: A good outdoor caulk or filler designed for masonry surfaces will work perfectly.
- Bigger cracks or damaged spots: You’ll need a thicker patching material to fill the gaps. Sometimes, you might need to apply a whole new render layer to get a smooth, even surface ready for paint.
- Loose, crumbly bits: Gently scrape away any damaged parts and re-patch the area to match the rest of your wall.
Take your time fixing the cracks. A rushed job will likely show through the paint, and you’ll be back to square one.
Here are some extra things to consider:
- Expertise: This guide offers basic advice. Suppose you’re unsure about the best approach. In that case, if the damage looks serious, or you’re simply uncomfortable tackling the project yourself, it’s always best to consult a professional.
- Safety: Wear gloves and appropriate safety gear when working with repair materials. Follow the instructions on the product carefully.
- Quality: Using high-quality materials will ensure your repairs last, saving you hassle in the long run.
- Prevention: While cracks are common, minimising moisture around your home’s foundation and ensuring proper drainage can help prevent some damage.
Step 3: Prime the Surface
Why bother with primer? I want to get painting!
Why waste time with primer? I want to see that beautiful new colour! I hear you, but taking the time to get a primer now will save you headaches later. It’s like laying a solid foundation for your dream paint job – it might not be the most exciting step, but it’ll ensure your colour looks fantastic and lasts for years.
Your home's exterior takes a beating
Think about it: sun, rain, maybe even salt spray if you live near the coast… all of that slowly wears down your render over time. It gets chalky and uneven, which could be better for painting.
Primer to the rescue, especially for older homes
Primer is like a magic shield if your home is over a few years old. It strengthens the render and creates a smooth surface for your beautiful paint to stick to.
Here's what a good primer (like Dulux Acraprime) does:
- The superglue effect: It gets into tiny cracks and weak spots, making your render stronger and less likely to flake.
- No more paint burns: Some old renders have a chemical reaction that ruins paint. Primer blocks that, so your colour stays true.
- Paint sticks better: Primer gives your paint something to grab onto, so it won’t peel or chip as easily.
- Even colour all around: Primer helps your paint look the same everywhere, even if the render underneath is a bit patchy.
Bottom line: Primer might take a little extra time, but it saves you from a bad paint job that needs fixing too soon.
Pro Painter Tips!
Here are some of our pro tips for effective priming:
- For smaller areas like window trim, use an angled sash brush to reach cracks and crevices that rollers miss.
- Apply primer on overcast days when exterior walls are shaded. Direct sun can cause primer to dry too rapidly.
Step 4: Choose a Durable, Breathable Paint
Why the right paint matters
Choosing the right paint for your exterior isn’t just about colour but protection! Think of high-quality acrylic paint as a shield for your render. It must be tough enough to handle sun, rain, and whatever else the weather throws. It must also be flexible enough to move with your house as it settles over time. That’s where the acrylic part comes in – it gives the paint the strength and stretch it needs.
The secret word: "Breathable"
Imagine your render could sweat – a little weird, I know! But moisture can build up inside, and if your paint traps it, you’ll end up with bubbles, peeling, and maybe even worse damage underneath. “Breathable” paints let that moisture escape, keeping your walls healthy and your paint job looking great.
Brands you can trust
Names like Taubmans All Weather and Dulux Weathershield are popular because they make good paint! Their exterior lines are designed for this kind of job, with tough formulas and even protection against fading.
Beyond just the paint: Things to consider
- Breathe easy: This is about that “breathable” paint again. It’s essential for keeping moisture from ruining your hard work!
- Don’t skimp: Cheap paint might seem tempting, but it will only last a while. It’s worth spending a bit more for a paint that does its job for years.
- The perfect shade: There are so many options! Go bold, stay classic, or find something that makes your house look its best.
- Rules and regs: Some areas have rules about what colour you can paint your house. It’s best to check before you get your heart set on a bright pink exterior!
- Boosting sale value: If you’re selling soon, neutral colours tend to appeal to buyers the most.
- Make it pop: Using a slightly different colour on details like window frames or doors can add a subtle touch of style.
Weather Warriors: Coastal Climates vs Inland Climates
- Coastal Climates: Living near the beach is beautiful, but salty air and moisture can be harsh on paint. Choose a paint (Wattyl Solagard) specifically designed for coastal areas—it’ll provide extra protection against mildew and rust.
- Inland Climates: Outback or far from the coast? The intense sun can quickly fade paint. Look for paint (Dulux Weathershield) with high UV resistance to keep your beautiful new colour from turning dull.
Tip: When talking to your paint specialists, mention those challenges specific to your area, and you’ll walk away with the perfect product for your project.
Step 5: It's not just the paint; it's how you use it!
You’ve got the perfect paint; now it’s time to make it shine! How you apply that paint is just as important as the colour itself. Our pro methods will help you get that beautiful, long-lasting finish that makes your home look its best. Here’s the secret to getting it right on textured render:
- Be a weather watcher: Don’t fight the weather! Painting in extreme heat, cold, or rain spells trouble. Your paint won’t stick right, and you’ll be back to square one. Aim for those ideal warm, dry days.
- The right tools make all the difference: Cheap brushes and rollers will ruin your hard work! They shed, leave streaks, and can’t handle the bumps and curves of rendered walls. Investing in good quality brushes and rollers specifically designed for textured surfaces is a must.
- Thin coats are your friend: Resist the urge to slap on a thick coat of paint. It might seem faster, but it’ll lead to drips, unevenness, and a less-than-perfect finish. Thin, even coats are the key to success.
- Blend those edges fast: When painting around details like windows, blend the edges right away before the paint can dry. This prevents those prominent lines and makes everything look seamless.
- Don’t get too shiny: Glossy finishes might be tempting, but they show every little flaw on a textured surface. Choose matt or low-sheen finishes to hide those minor imperfections and get a smoother overall look.
Pro Painter Tricks!
Here are some of our best tips for achieving paint perfection:
- Paint on dry days with temperatures between 10-32°C
- Use painter’s tape to protect windows, doors and trim
- Pour paint into roller trays instead of using the paint can to avoid accidents
- Use a paintbrush comb to remove excess paint from roller covers between coats
Step 6: Keep Your Investment Looking Great
You’ve invested time and effort to make your home look fantastic, so let’s keep it that way! A little regular maintenance goes a long way in protecting your beautiful paint job and saving you from major headaches (and expenses) later. Here’s how:
- The power of a good wash: A simple pressure wash once a year blasts away dirt, grime, and anything else that might damage your paint. Think of it as an annual deep clean for your exterior. If things are super dirty, use a bit of mild soap.
- Spot those problems early: Keep an eye out for cracks, blisters, or peeling paint. Those are signs that moisture might be getting in, and those little problems can turn into big ones quickly. Fix them as soon as you see them!
- Repaint before it’s too late: Even the best paint job won’t last forever. Plan on repainting every 5-7 years to keep your home looking its best and to protect the render underneath. It’s a small investment now that prevents costly repairs later.
Procover Painters: Your Newcastle Painting Specialists
Are you short on time or feeling overwhelmed by the job? Reach out to us at Procover Painting, your local Newcastle painters. We’ll give your rendered home a makeover that will have the neighbours envious. Get a free quote today!
FAQ
Most frequent questions and answers
Yes, you can paint straight onto render, but ensuring the surface is clean, dry, and in good condition is important. Removing any dirt, grime, or loose material is crucial for ensuring the paint adheres properly.
Yes, you often need to seal a rendered wall before painting, mainly if the render is very porous or has yet to be painted. Sealing or priming the wall can stabilise the surface, improve paint adhesion, and result in a more uniform finish.
The best paint for cement rendered walls is usually a high-quality acrylic exterior paint that’s specifically formulated for masonry surfaces. These paints provide durability and flexibility and allow the walls to “breathe,” which helps prevent issues with moisture.
Yes, render can be painted with exterior paint, especially if the paint is designed for use on masonry surfaces. These paints are formulated to withstand outdoor conditions and adhere well to rendered surfaces.
Yes, Dulux Weathershield can be used on render. It’s a high-quality exterior paint designed to offer protection against the elements, making it suitable for use on rendered walls. It provides durability, flexibility, and UV and moisture protection.
The best paint for exterior render is high-quality acrylic exterior paint formulated for masonry. It offers durability, flexibility, and breathability, preventing moisture issues and ensuring a long-lasting finish. Brands like Dulux Weathershield are recommended for their protective properties against weather and UV rays.
