STEP-BY-STEP GUIDE

How to paint exterior walls

A coat of paint can transform the look of your house. Today's masonry paints are tough and flexible. For smooth render, opt for a textured paint for a tough finish. For rough surfaces like pebbledash, smooth masonry paint is easier to apply.

Time to complete job: Try to work on finishing a complete wall in one go. A three-bedroom semi should be done in 2-3 weekends.
Approximate budget: From as little as £100.

How to paint exterior walls

You will need:

  • Ladder
  • Abrasive paper
  • Stabilising primer solution
  • Trowel
  • Old fabric sheets or polythene sheets and masking tape
  • Paint roller and tray
  • Ladder hook
  • Wire brush
  • 25, 50 and 100mm (1, 2 and 4in) paintbrushes
  • Quick-setting mortar pack
  • Safety glasses

Tip: It's better to work in the spring or early autumn when the walls are dry but there is less heat from the sun. Try to stage the painting so that you follow the sun around the house. Stop work at least two hours before sunset so the last area of paint has time to dry.

Safety
Always wear flat shoes with grip and don't over-reach when working on a ladder. Always keep one hand on the ladder.

Wear a dust mask and goggles when using a wire brush to clean the old masonry.

Never lean the ladder against windows or guttering. Make sure it is against a solid surface and doesn't rock. Secure the top with rope to a window frame or drill a hole in the wall and fix a large eyelet fixing.

For every 1.3m (1.4yd) of height, place the ladder 30cm (12in) away from wall at the bottom.

Related sections: Painting, Walls, floors & ceilings, Conservatory & outdoors

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