Prepare your exterior surfaces for painting

Carrying out painting work on the outside of your home is something you'll need to do once in a while. Not only does it keep everything looking in top condition, but it will protect certain surfaces for longer if they've been coated properly. 

You should apply the same principles you would when painting a house, notably making sure all the surfaces are prepared before you start covering them with paint. This means filling cracks and imperfections ahead of making a trip to your local hardware store to find the right paint for the job.

Sand back any existing paintwork

Ideally, you need a smooth surface to work on, so take some time to sand away any paintwork that's already in place. The type of sandpaper you choose will depend on how much you need to remove - in some cases, a bit of elbow grease is all that's needed, while in others you might require an electric sander.

Remember to clear away all the dust and residue you've created, otherwise all it will do is make its way into the paintwork. A damp cloth should be all you need, or a soft brush if you really want to do a thorough job!

Choose the right undercoat

The next step is to apply your primer or undercoat. It's important you select one that will perform well when subjected to the elements, so if you've got some left-over from painting the house, double-check whether it's suitable for exterior applications.

Resene explains that in some cases, you might be able to use a sealer in place of a primer. Its primary function is to make sure the paint properly soaks into the surface, therefore improving its chances of standing the test of time.

Once you've selected your primer, undercoat or sealer, make sure you follow the manufacturer's instructions so it has the best possible effect.

What paint should you choose for outdoor use?

Make sure your paint is up to the job

The same principle applies when it comes to selecting a paint - you need to make sure it's suitable for outdoor use. Enamel paints are often considered to be the most hard-wearing, although acrylic-based products can be just as effective.

The one you choose will depend on various factors, including what you're painting and the level of sheen you want to achieve. Let the staff at your local store know exactly what you need it for when painting a house and they'll be able to point you in the right direction.