How to prepare for house exterior painting

Key overview: How to prepare for house exterior painting

• Prepare the surface. A clean, crack-free surface helps paint hold better and last longer.
• Use the correct PPE for safety.
• Keep your worksite tidy and paint-splash free using dropsheets and window protectors.
• Different exterior surfaces require different approaches:
• Timber does best with paints that allow for movement.
• Masonry and brick painting often need thicker nap rollers or sprayers for even coverage.
• Metal surfaces usually require specialised primers and smoother applicators for a durable finish.
• Ask at the Paint Desk in-store for advice on matching paints and tools to surfaces.

Tip: Always wear the appropriate safety equipment (safety glasses, gloves, ear muffs and a mask, for example) and always follow the instructions for the product or equipment.

As the days get warmer and stretch out, it is the ideal time to turn attention to the outside of the home. A refresh of your exterior painting can lift street appeal dramatically. But the difference between a finish that lasts and one that flakes within a season can often come down to the accessories and preparation that sit behind the paint itself.

How to prepare the exterior surface for paint

Painting preparation should not be rushed. Dirt, mould and loose material can prevent paint bonding properly, so a thorough clean is essential. For larger areas, a pressure washer can make quick work of built-up grime on concrete, weatherboards and brick. Sanding blocks, sanding sheets and paint scrapers are great to remove peeling paint and smooth rough surfaces prior to painting. The goal is a clean, sound surface that gives your paint the best possible start, explains Tori Clutton, Dulux account manager for Bunnings. “Good prep is about giving paint a surface it can properly hold onto,” she says. “Removing peeling paint, repairing cracks and cleaning away dust all help improve long-term durability and paint performance.”

What PPE should you use for outdoor painting?

Sturdy gloves, protective eyewear and a well-fitted mask are essential during painting and prep. Drop sheets, masking tape and masking film help protect windows, paths and garden beds from splashes. Paint buckets and cleaning cloths make the job easier and help keep worksites tidy.

What tools do you need for exterior painting?

Choosing the right application tools can impact both finish quality and how long the job takes. Powered paint rollers are a strong option for large walls, delivering a consistent coat. Rough surface rollers are particularly useful on textured masonry and render. Paint sprayers can quickly cover fences, render and weatherboards, though they require more masking and setup. “You could consider using a paint sprayer when time is of the essence,” says Tori. “They are ideal for large areas like fences and decks, delivering a smooth, even finish with minimal physical effort.”

Which brush should you use for exterior painting?

Detail work comes down to precision tools. Trim, window frames and tight edges benefit from using high-quality brushes and smaller rollers designed for control rather than speed. Angled brushes are especially useful when you need to cut in along edges and to achieve clean lines.

What’s the difference between interior paint and exterior paint?

It is also worth understanding what sets exterior paint apart from interior products. Exterior paints are formulated to handle UV exposure, temperature fluctuations and moisture. They are more flexible and often include additives to resist mould and mildew. Using interior paint outside may look fine initially, but it will not stand up to the elements for as long. “The key difference between interior and exterior paint is the job each paint has to do,” explains Tori. “Exterior paint is formulated to enhance and protect surfaces through rain, hail or shine.”

Keep in mind...

• Keep all paint and chemicals out of reach of children and pets.
• Paint colours may vary on application.
• Delay painting outdoors if rain is imminent, and avoid painting in very hot or very cold conditions. Plan to paint when it’s cool and shady, as paint may dry too quickly in direct sunlight, leaving brush marks and an uneven finish.
• Make sure your ladder has non-slip feet and is set up on a flat, stable and solid surface. Wear sturdy footwear, maintain three points of contact (both feet and one hand) at all times and make sure another person is nearby in case you need assistance.

Need a hand planning your exterior painting job?

Find out how much paint you’ll need with our paint calculator.

Photo credit: Dulux/Mark Roper, Adobe Stock.