Painting the exterior of a house in summer brings its own challenges due to the hot weather conditions. However, with the right approach and precautions, you can ensure a successful painting job. Here are my six tips for getting the job done by Mike Cupit at Decorators Forum UK;
1 – Time your painting sessions:
Plan your painting schedule to avoid the hottest parts of the day. Begin painting early in the morning or later in the afternoon when the temperatures are cooler. Another tip is to follow the shade around the house and avoid working in the sunshine. Not only will this make the job more comfortable, but working in direct sunshine can cause your paint to fail. Blisters can appear, and the only way to fix it, is to sand down, and start again.
2 – Prepare the surface properly:
Just like in any season, surface preparation is crucial for a successful painting job. Clean the surface thoroughly to remove dirt, dust, and any loose paint. Repair any cracks or damage, and make sure the surface is dry before applying the paint.
3 – Protect yourself from the sun:
Summer heat can be intense, so it’s important to protect yourself from the sun. Wear lightweight, breathable clothing that covers your skin, along with a hat, sunglasses, and suncream. Take regular breaks in shaded areas and stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
4 – Consider paint additives:
In hot weather, paint can dry too quickly, leading to brush and roller marks or uneven application. Consider using paint additives that slow down the drying time, allowing for smoother and more even coverage. These additives are available at most trade paint outlets. You might opt for FloeTrol oil when using water-based paints, and OwaTrol Oil when using oil-based paints (other brands are available). Do not use more than the recommended amount to your paint because this will lead to its own problems.
5 – Work in smaller sections at a time:
To prevent the paint from drying too quickly and forming lap marks, work in smaller sections. This allows you to maintain a wet edge and blend the paint seamlessly.
6 – Use good quality trade paint
This tip isn’t specific to summer. Any Decorator will tell you that the quality of your paint will make all the difference. Products such as Zinsser AllCoat will not only give you good results in the short term, but it will also last a lot longer. It will stand up to ever expanding and contracting timber, so the paint doesn’t flake. It will also stand up to UV radiation, so the colour lasts longer.
Remember to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and recommendations for the specific paint you’re using. With proper planning, preparation, and care, you can achieve a beautiful and durable paint job on your home’s exterior even in the summer heat.
@ZinsserUK
